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

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Now that we live in an era where anyone can broadcast on the internet and information is overflowing, music trends are emerging differently than before.

These days, it’s completely normal for Vocaloid producers to thrive as singer-songwriters, or for a song posted online to spark widespread popularity.

What’s more, trends—especially among younger generations—are shifting at a tremendous pace.

So in this article, our editorial team, which regularly researches a wide range of music, will carefully select and introduce tracks that are currently hot among young people.

It’s become a must-hear playlist where you won’t want to miss a single song, so be sure to read to the end!

[2025] Popular Songs Among Today's Youth [J-Pop] (101–110)

Pink Strawberry Chocolate FridayNumber_i

Pink Strawberry Chocolate Friday

Pink Strawberry Chocolate Friday Number_i

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.

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I LOVE MEKoresawa

Koresawa “I LOVE ME” [MUSIC VIDEO]

I LOVE ME - Koresawa

The digital single “I LOVE ME,” released in September 2025, is a newly written track themed around Wacoal’s brand message.

It carefully portrays the protagonist’s emotional journey—from shedding tears in secret to forgiving herself and learning to love herself just as she is.

It carries a message that can support you when you’ve lost confidence.

With a bright, uplifting ensemble that feels comfortable, it’s a heartwarming pop tune.

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I like the me who likes you.Yui Sakurai

Loving Me, Loving You

I like the me who likes you. — Yui Sakurai

Yui Sakurai, who is also active in the idol group FRUITS ZIPPER.

Her solo debut track, released digitally in September 2025, is a delightful piece with a light, breezy electropop sound.

The lyrics depict a cycle of self-affirmation: falling for someone, having them return your feelings, and in turn learning to love yourself even more—warming the hearts of listeners along the way.

First unveiled at a fashion event in September 2025, this song is a perfect anthem for those moments when you want to feel optimistic.

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Medical Record No. 2222NEW!Try making a cute 'kyururin' pose.

“Medical Record No. 2222” MV / Kyururin tte Shitemite

Medical record No. 2222 NEW! Try going kyururin

Kyururin Tte Shitemite, an idol group that champions the concept of “Kawaii Realism.” Released in September 2025, this track is a fairy-tale dark piece set in a hospital, depicting the precariousness of love.

With dialogue-style exchanges and the group’s first-ever rap section, it’s a compelling listen.

You’ll be surprised by their range of expression—it’s not just cute.

If you enjoy sweet yet slightly dangerous worlds, you’ll surely be captivated by its thrilling development.

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SO BADKing Gnu

SO BAD

SO BADKing Gnu

Released in September 2025, King Gnu’s digital single “SO BAD” was written as the official theme song for Universal Studios Japan’s “Zombie de Dance.” Daiki Tsuneta describes the track as “the worst and the best.” It paints a thrilling world where one revels in ruinous, chaotic circumstances.

Frenzied beats and ferocious sonics fire up the listener’s adrenaline.

It’s an alternative tune that updates King Gnu’s signature hybrid sound—made to ignite a live crowd.

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[2025] Popular Songs Among Today's Youth [Japanese Music] (111–120)

NINE LIVESLimited Express

Bullet Train “NINE LIVES” Music Video

NINE LIVES Super Express

Super Express is a music unit composed of male members from Stardust Promotion.

Their 22nd single, released in September 2025, is titled “NINE LIVES.” By evoking the proverb “A cat has nine lives” and their image as a nine-member group, the song expresses an indomitable spirit that overcomes any hardship.

Its cool, groovy beat makes you want to move your body just by listening.

It’s a dance tune brimming with their signature charm that never forgets a sense of humor.

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BLUEBE:FIRST

BLUE

BLUEBE:FIRST

This track, with its light yet somehow emotional sound, is the first song for which BE:FIRST members JUNON and LEO took part in writing the lyrics.

The lyrics, which portray feelings for an irreplaceable presence amid everyday life with its ups and downs, give you the strength to believe in tomorrow.

The song is included on “Sora,” their eighth single, released in September 2025.

It was written specifically for a Suntory Draft Beer web movie.

Give it a listen when you need the courage to move forward—it’ll make your heart feel a little lighter.

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