[Latest/Trending] A roundup of popular Japanese songs among teens and people in their 20s

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TV Anime “The Girl I Like Forgot Her Glasses” Non-Credit Opening | Tsuzuri “NAME”

Singer Tsuzuri, who began their music career by posting their first YouTube video at age 13, made a major-label debut while still a high school student.

The title track of their 1st single, “NAME,” was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime The Girl I Like Forgot Her Glasses.

The ensemble, featuring a fresh, vibrant guitar sound, creates a perfect contrast with the transparent vocals that carry a mature air.

It’s a refreshing pop tune whose driving beat lifts your spirits.

Heavenly Thunder (feat. yowanecity)can can

Worldly Thunder / Kankan

Kankan, who has been active as a singer since around 2018.

His collaboration with Vocaloid producer yowanecity is the track “Kairai.” It features a high-tempo sound that strongly evokes classic Vocaloid elements.

Layered with Kankan’s powerful vocals and distorted electronic tones, it builds a chaotic, immersive atmosphere.

Another hallmark is the abundance of lyrics that evoke traditional Japanese motifs.

The music video—featuring stylish, anime-inspired visuals—has also become a talking point, so be sure to check it out.

Matafuta mataRinu

【MV】Matafuta Mata / Rinu

Rinu, a singer who is also known as a member of the six-person entertainment unit Strawberry Prince (SutoPuri) and has gained popularity through voice acting and as a vocalist, has released his sixth digital-only single, “Matafuta Mata.” The fact that it was newly written by Wanuka, a singer-songwriter currently in the spotlight, also became a hot topic.

With its impactful title and lyrics that portray unstoppable feelings for someone you love, the song likely brings back memories of youthful romance for many listeners.

It’s a cute pop tune distinguished by its intricate melody and sprightly ensemble.

A Roving Paper EffigyMasaki Suda × Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra

Masaki Suda × Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra “Rurou no Katashiro”

A collaborative track by Masaki Suda—active as both an actor and a singer—and Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, “Rurou no Katashiro.” Chosen as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story, its luxurious brass ensemble sound really amps up the excitement.

The lyrics, which overlap with the anime’s narrative, truly feel like they fulfill the role of an opening theme.

It’s a cool number, with a rich, resonant vocal that stirs the heart.

First anniversaryWataru Ochiai

First anniversary

Singer-songwriter Wataru Ochiai has been gaining attention for his lyrics that depict the unassuming yet irreplaceable themes found in everyday life.

His track “Hajimete no Kinenbi,” released digitally on December 10, 2023, opens with a lyrical guitar riff that lingers in your ears.

A relationship where you can confidently say you love both the good and the bad might not be extraordinary, but rather one where every day shines like an anniversary.

Set to a gentle melody over a relaxed shuffle beat, it’s a heartfelt love song that warmly embraces the listener.

gardenFujii Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Garden (Not a MV)

Fujii Kaze is a singer-songwriter who delivers high-level performances on a variety of instruments, including piano, Electone, and saxophone.

“Garden,” included on his second album LOVE ALL SERVE ALL, draws you in with its gentle vocals set over a laid-back beat.

Its message—nurturing your heart even as life and the seasons turn—seems to teach us something essential about living.

With a grand, gospel-tinged arrangement that stirs the soul, it’s a deeply soulful track.

FlowerFujii Kaze

Hana

Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, whose talent drew attention even before his major-label debut and who now dominates the J-pop scene with his urban musicality.

His 14th digital-only single, “Hana (Flower),” was written as the theme song for the TV drama “The Most Favorite Flower.” Its lyrics convey a message of someday letting your own unique flower bloom, offering comfort to those who feel lost or troubled.

It’s an emotional number, with a stirring melody carried by a piano that is both rich in depth and light on its feet.