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)
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?”
Heavenly Musicyūyu
Wagakki Band’s cover version is cool too, isn’t it? It’s a hard rock number by the Vocaloid producer Yuuyu, also known as the creator of “Deep Sea Girl,” released in August 2009.
The fiercely distorted guitar sound, the surging bass, and the powerful drum work are all compelling.
Rin Kagamine’s vocals layered on top have a touch of sensuality, and as you listen, you get drawn into the world of the song.
The explosive power of the chorus is top-notch! It might not be an exaggeration to call it one of the pinnacles of Vocaloid rock.
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.
Toetotoraboruta P
“Toeto,” produced in 2009 by Travolta-P, a Vocaloid producer who rose to prominence with songs featuring Kagamine Rin.
The track showcases Megurine Luka’s voice, capable of everything from sweet, gentle tones to passionate vocals.
Set to a pastoral, folk-inspired melody, it portrays a girl’s bittersweet feelings of love.
As she tries to express her honest emotions but can’t quite find the words, it’s sure to stir your heart.
A romantic love song that highlights Vocaloid’s uniquely genre-defying charm.
CantarellaKurousa-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!
A roundup of popular and classic songs that colored the Vocaloid scene of the Heisei era (41–50)
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!
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.