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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] (121–130)

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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DearBUDDiiS

BUDDiiS「Dear」Official Music Video

DearBUDDiiS

BUDDiiS is a dance and vocal group gaining attention for their DIY style, with members themselves involved in production.

“Dear” is a song released on September 16, 2025—the anniversary of the group’s formation—crafted as a gift to express gratitude to their fans.

Its gentle, calm melody is interwoven with the members’ warm vocals and rap.

The sincere lyrics, which convey a promise to stay by your side and keep protecting you no matter what, will likely make many listeners think of someone precious to them.

A heartwarming pop tune that stays close to you.

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36°C U・B・UHatsuboshi Academy

Hatsuboshi Academy “36°C U.B.U” Official Music Video (Hatsuboshi Gakuen – 36°C U.B.U)

36°C U.B.U Hatsuboshi Academy

This is a song from the idol-training game “Gakuen Idolmaster.” Among its many unique idols, Rinami Himezaki—who exudes a big-sister charm—delivers this solo number.

It’s a pop tune bursting with toy-box energy, driven by a breezy groove of bass and guitar that feels irresistibly good.

The lyrics depict the push and pull of romance, wishing the other person would turn up the heat just a little more.

If you’ve got a crush right now, it might hit especially close to home.

Give it a listen when you want to lean into that lovey-dovey mood!

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Secret GardenBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Secret Garden -Official Audio-

Secret GardenBE:FIRST

It’s a captivating number with a mellow, sophisticated track.

BE:FIRST’s “Secret Garden” is set for release in August 2025.

At first listen, it sounds like a sweet love song, but in fact it sings of deep respect and affection for music itself.

The theme’s dual-layered structure is vividly and gently brought to life by the members’ expressive vocals.

It might be perfect for a quiet night when you want to reflect on what matters most.

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[2025] Popular Songs Among Today's Youth [J-Pop] (131–140)

Casket GirlFujii Kaze

Casket Girl

Casket Girl Kaze Fujii

Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, whose global acclaim continues to rise, is an artist you can’t take your eyes off.

“Casket Girl” opens Prema, an album released in September 2025—his first in about three years—featuring primarily English lyrics.

Its ’80s-inspired sound evokes a stylish atmosphere reminiscent of nighttime in LA.

The lyrics explore the theme of liberating the self through confronting a dangerously alluring presence.

It’s an emotional track that gently nudges those who wish to break free from their current circumstances.

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Sailing the seaAiri Suzuki

Sailing the sea

Airi Suzuki Conquering the Sea

Released in September 2025, this work was created to commemorate the 8th anniversary of the Japanese release of the smartphone game Azur Lane.

It likens the bonds with comrades to a vast ocean, singing of gratitude and a strong will to move toward the future.

It’s deeply moving and resonates even with those who aren’t familiar with the game’s world.

The sound arrangement, which blends crisp freshness with a sense of speed, is also outstanding.

A grand-scale number that gives you the courage to step into tomorrow.

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Hush-HushBE:FIRST X ATEEZ

BE:FIRST X ATEEZ / Hush-Hush -Music Video-

Hush-HushBE:FIRST X ATEEZ

This song, notable for its trilingual lyrics, is a collaboration between BE:FIRST and ATEEZ released in July 2024.

It features a bouncy rhythm and distinctive synth sounds, and the music video—showcasing a breathtaking performance by 15 members—is a must-see.

The lyrics, themed around “hidden emotions” and “suppressed feelings,” depict inner emotions that don’t surface outwardly, with multilayered expression.

It’s also included on BE:FIRST’s second album, “2,” so be sure to check it out.

I recommend enjoying it together with the MV set in a dreamlike cityscape.

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