Summary of Popular and Classic Songs That Colored the Vocaloid Scene of the Heisei Era
Since the arrival of Hatsune Miku in 2007, countless masterpieces have emerged in the Vocaloid scene.
From love songs and anthems of encouragement to darker tracks, and spanning every genre—pop, rock, dance music, hip-hop, and more—Vocaloid music covers it all.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of songs born in the Heisei era that helped establish the popularity of the Vocaloid scene.
Even now, long after their release, these beloved works continue to be cherished—be sure to give them a listen!
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Summary of Popular and Classic Songs That Colored the Heisei-Era Vocaloid Scene (1–10)
Dear Doppelgängerkemu
A song with a captivating, mysterious, and alluring worldview that begins with an encounter with one’s exact double.
Released by kemu in 2017, it features breakneck rhythms and a heavy guitar sound.
GUMI’s clear, straightforward vocals vividly color the story.
Through an exchange with a doppelgänger that gradually steals the protagonist’s place, the lyrics explore universal themes of identity instability and self-discovery.
If you like mixture rock, this will absolutely hit the mark!
Sand Planethachi
A story about seeking new hope in a desolate desert.
It’s a work released by Kenshi Yonezu under the name Hachi.
It was unveiled in July 2017 as the theme song for Hatsune Miku’s 10th anniversary event, “Magical Mirai 2017.” It was later included on the album BOOTLEG.
The lyrics, which juxtapose the evolution of Vocaloid culture with the past and present of Niconico, invite deep reflection.
The blend of nostalgia for the past and hope for the future is truly moving.
Please give this song a listen and let it bring back memories of that time.
Unknown Mother Goosewowaka
It’s an exquisite track woven from a speedy tempo and philosophical lyrics.
Created by the Vocaloid producer wowaka and released in August 2017, it expresses themes of “love” and “imitation” through Hatsune Miku, drawing you in with its unique worldview and a vocal performance that feels like a trembling of the soul.
The highly addictive rock sound—this relentless surge of notes—sounds unbelievably cool.
I recommend listening to it when you want to let your emotions run free.
Compilation of Popular and Classic Songs That Colored the Heisei-Era Vocaloid Scene (11–20)
Hated by life.Kanzaki Iori
This is a work that depicts emotions wavering between life and death with overwhelming expressive power.
It is one of Iori Kanzaki’s signature songs, released in August 2017.
In 2021, it drew attention when Mafumafu covered it at the 72nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The driving melody blends perfectly with lyrics that deliver a scathing critique of modern society.
The words also convey the dignity of clinging to life—even when consumed by negative emotions.
It’s a must-listen when you feel lost in life or want to reflect on the value of life.
Karakuri Pierrot40mP
This is a light yet tear-jerking Vocaloid song that portrays the protagonist’s heart-wrenching feelings as they’re tossed around by love.
It’s a track by 40mP, who has truly remained at the forefront of the Vocaloid scene for a very long time, released in 2011.
The band sound built around the piano gives a very catchy impression.
And yet, the lyrics are self-deprecating, calling oneself a “clown” for being stood up and left waiting by the person they like… The contrast with the upbeat tone really hits hard.
It’s easy to listen to, so I can recommend it to anyone who’s thinking of getting into Vocaloid songs.
Venomkairiki bea
Venom, with its exhilarating addictiveness, is a song by Kairiki bear.
Released in August 2018, its lyrics vividly portray the loneliness and inner conflicts faced by people today.
You’ll also be drawn into its unique soundscape—guitars that chime in exactly when you want them to, and beats that are irresistibly pleasing to the ear.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to spit out the “poison” building up inside.
Why not revisit the charm of Venom?
LokiMikito P
Crank up your energy with some hard-hitting rock ’n’ roll! One of popular Vocaloid producer Mikito-P’s signature songs, “Roki,” was released in February 2018.
It’s a duet by Kagamine Rin and Mikito-P himself, and the back-and-forth vocal work is insanely cool! The crisp band sound is fantastic too—especially that bouncy slap bass, which is absolutely irresistible.
It’s a heart-pumping Vocaloid classic that’s perfect as the first song at karaoke!