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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A roundup of popular and classic songs that colored the Vocaloid scene of the Heisei era (31–40)
Cantarellakuro usagi P
Songs with a gothic worldview have always been popular in the Vocaloid scene, from the old days to the present, haven’t they? Created by Kurousa-P—who also produced the iconic hit Senbonzakura that’s practically synonymous with Vocaloid—this track was released in February 2008.
It originally belonged to WhiteFlame, the doujin circle Kurousa-P was part of, and what we’re introducing here is, in other words, a self-cover arrangement using Vocaloid.
It’s a highly narrative piece where the dramatic sound and mature vocal work are a perfect match.
KAITO’s sultry singing voice is truly wonderful!
Love me, love me, love meKikuo
Despite its innocent singing voice and an amusement-park-like tune, it’s downright deranged.
This song by Kikuo, a globally popular Vocaloid producer whose artistic style grips listeners and doesn’t let go, was released in 2013.
In recent years it was also included in the mobile game “Project Sekai,” drawing renewed attention.
It’s a song that screams of love, yet the sound and vocal work convey a distorted emotion.
You can’t help but start theorizing: “What happened to the protagonist of this song to end up like this?”
Vampire’s ∞ pathoSHitoshizuku-P × Yama△
A creator unit known for story-driven songs produced this track in 2018, included on the album “VILLAINS & HEROES Side:V.” Set to a driving rock sound, Kagamine Len’s powerful vocals resound.
It portrays a nocturnal tragedy woven by an uncontrollable monster and an innocent being, and its musical-like progression is breathtaking.
Surpassing 10 million views on YouTube, this piece is sure to elevate Halloween with its dark aesthetic.
Why not become the story’s protagonist with a gothic costume?
The White Snow PrincessNoboru ↑P
It’s a grand, fast-paced rock number based on the world-famous classic Snow White.
The song was created by Vocaloid producer Noboru↑, also known for Love Surely Soars☆ and Monochrome ∞ Blue Sky, and was released in February 2010.
The dynamic soundscape pairs perfectly with Miku’s solid, focused vocals.
It packs a variety of charms—cuteness, coolness, and drama.
However, when you delve into the lyrics’ implications, there’s also a touch of eeriness.
It’s a Vocaloid track you can enjoy from multiple angles.
Patchwork StaccatoToa
The work that expanded the popularity of the Vocaloid producer Toa was their 14th piece, Tsugihagi Staccato, released in 2014, which was one of the tracks distributed as part of the 7th anniversary project for Hatsune Miku.
It surpassed 100,000 views on Niconico and entered the Hall of Fame, and in 2016 it achieved a million views.
The “staccato” in the title refers to playing notes in a short, detached manner, which creates a distinctive sound throughout the song.
The lyrics, which sing of an unrequited love that bears no fruit, evoke a heartrending feeling as you listen.
It’s a perfect number to play on a lonely night.
A roundup of popular and classic songs that colored the Vocaloid scene of the Heisei era (41–50)
No abnormalities in the cherry blossom frontWataru P
It’s a fast-paced, high-energy Japanese-style Vocaloid track.
Created by the Vocaloid producer Wataru-P, it was released in 2010.
First off, the dynamic, sharply contrasted arrangement is seriously cool! The rock-flavored sound pairs perfectly with Miku’s powerful vocals.
The lyrics’ message—“It’s okay to go little by little; let your own unique flower bloom”—lands with real impact.
It’s an incredibly energetic piece that gives you the strength to move forward toward the future.
Wanderlustsasakure.UK
This song is by sasakure.UK, one of the leading Vocaloid producers who has continued to be active at the forefront of the Vocaloid scene and has also worked on pieces like “Tondemo Wonders” and “Future Eve.” It was released in February 2009.
The work is characterized by its unpredictable song structure and avant-garde sound that incorporates chiptune.
Even back then, it already had that distinct “sasakure.UK sound,” which is great.
Even now, long after its release, it still feels “new.” A remake version was uploaded in 2019, so if you haven’t heard it yet, definitely check it out!