[2025] Popular Songs Among Today’s Youth [Japanese Music]

Lonely StarShimo

Shimamo – Lonely Star 【Official Music Video】

Released in September 2025, this track is a number that portrays a heartfelt cry in search of true love.

From the lyrics, you can picture a protagonist swaying between contradictory emotions—posing as a lonely star while still wishing not to be disliked.

Shimamo’s sharp word choices and dynamic sound come together to pierce deeply into the listener’s heart.

It’s a song that may stand by those who are tired of playing the ideal version of themselves.

IDOLICNEW!Kento Nakajima

Kento Nakajima "IDOLIC" Music Video

A track infused with the resolve to reexamine what it means to be an idol and to keep evolving has become a hot topic.

Known by the nickname Kenty, Kento Nakajima showcases multifaceted talent as an actor and TV personality.

This work is his second single, released in October 2025, created as a “theme song for life.” He wrote the lyrics himself, singing with a strong will to update his image.

It’s a powerful dance tune that encourages those who want to surpass their past selves.

Friday NightNatori

Natori – Friday Night

Singer-songwriter Natori, who made a major impact on the music scene with the 2022 smash hit “Overdose.” Released in March 2023, the track was featured in a Spotify brand commercial and became a hot topic.

Set on a weekend night, its lyrics weave together resignation toward an unfulfilling relationship and an earnest longing for love as it is, gripping listeners and not letting go.

Natori’s characteristically rich, low-register voice accentuates the song’s ennui-laced, fleeting atmosphere.

The fact that the demo surpassed one million plays even before release speaks to its high level of attention.

Also included on the album “Gekijou,” it’s a cool pop tune perfect for nights when you want to feel a little more grown-up.

Now, let love begin. -another story- feat. Ruka Setoguchi (CV: Takao Otsuka)HONEY WORKS

Now, Let Love Begin. -another story- feat. Ruka Setoguchi (CV: Takeo Otsuka) / HoneyWorks

HoneyWorks, the creative unit known for crafting bittersweet coming-of-age stories in their Confession Executive Committee: Love Series, released this new track for streaming in September 2025.

Featuring voice actor Tsuyoshi Otsuka as Ruka Setoguchi, the song spotlights a man who reunites with his childhood friend and finds himself overwhelmed by a love he can no longer contain, despite his confusion—lyrics many listeners are sure to relate to.

Its straightforward melody and words vividly reflect the character’s inner world.

Perfect for savoring that fluttering moment when love begins.

Egaku MiraiMyGO!!!!!

MyGO!!!!! × Taiji (Aqua Timez) & Daisuke (Aqua Timez) “Egaku Mirai” Animated MV (Full-size ver.) [Artist Tie-up Song]

Selected as a tie-in song for BanG Dream! Girls Band Party! in September 2025, this work was newly written by Futoshi and Daisuke from Aqua Timez.

The unique, emotionally rich words and melodies they crafted blend with MyGO!!!!!’s emotional band sound, and the resulting chemistry is wonderful.

While singing of youthful confusion and anxiety, the lyrics also stay close to a hope for the future, resonating with those experiencing similar struggles.

It’s a light-filled, encouraging anthem.

ATAMINumber_i

Number_i – ATAMI (Official Live Performance M/V)

The track “ATAMI,” produced by member Yuta Jinguji, is a laid-back number that fuses jazz and rap.

Its mellow ensemble of piano and brass evokes a nighttime scene and draws you deep into its world.

The lyrics, which frame personal ambition and youthful memories in shades of “blue,” are especially striking.

Featured on the album “No.

II,” set for release in September 2025, it also drew attention when a live-band performance video was released in advance.

A sophisticated pop tune with depth.

Pink Strawberry Chocolate FridayNumber_i

Pink Strawberry Chocolate Friday

This is a solo track by Shiyoh Hirano.

Centered on the sweet, bittersweet memories of a past love, it conjures scenes like walking hand in hand along the railway—just like a moment from a film.

The structure is superb, unfolding from rap-like spoken lines into a beautiful chorus, and his husky, gentle vocals further heighten the song’s melancholy.

The track is included on the album “No.

Ⅱ,” released in September 2025.

When you want to quietly look back on an old love, listening to it will surely keep you company.