[Karaoke Songs for May] A list of classic tracks that capture the lingering spirit of spring and the arrival of early summer

A clear May skyOkamura Takako

Takako Okamura - Clear Skies in May

A number distinguished by a crystal-clear melody that evokes the refreshing breezes of May.

It’s a song by Takako Okamura, who, after her work as part of Aming, secured an unshakable position as a solo singer.

Included on the classic album “liberté,” released in July 1987, the track was later selected for the compilation album “Ballade,” which reached No.

6 on the Oricon charts, and has continued to be cherished over the years.

The lyrics’ worldview, contrasting the panorama of a clear, cloudless sky with the shifting emotions within, makes it perfect for May.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to pause amid busy days or spend some quiet time.

DriveKetsumeishi

Drive

A breezy track by Ketsumeishi that makes you want to take a long drive, lured by the pleasant May weather.

Released as the opening track on the June 2005 album Ketsuno-Police 4, it’s enjoyed immense popularity as a summer staple, even topping Oricon’s survey for “Songs You Want to Listen to While Driving by the Sea.” Sung over a light, upbeat rhythm, it captures the exhilaration of hitting the road with no set destination and the simple, happy moments shared with friends.

The sensation is as refreshing as rolling down the windows and feeling the wind—perfect for early summer vibes! Ideal for Golden Week drives, and a great pick to hype up a karaoke session with friends, too.

From the viridian-windowed MayYorushika

Yorushika – In May, From The Emerald Green Window (五月は花緑青の窓辺から) (Lyrics/Kan/Rom/Eng)

May, when the view of fresh greenery from the window blends with the slightly sticky air of early summer.

Vividly capturing that seasonal state of mind is a track by Yorushika, famed for their narrative-driven music.

Set to a breathlessly propulsive band sound, it portrays tears likened to verdigris and reflections on time slipping away, tightening the listener’s chest.

Released in April 2019 as part of the concept album “That’s Why I Gave Up Music,” this piece is a pivotal song that symbolizes the wavering emotions at the turn of the seasons within a masterpiece chronicling the story of a young man who quits music.

Its refreshing yet somehow bittersweet melody is perfect for this time of year, when changing environments can make fatigue surface more easily.

carnationJanne Da Arc

carnation

On Mother’s Day, which falls on the second Sunday of May, you can’t help but want to express the gratitude that you’re usually too shy to say out loud.

The song that stirs up those warm feelings is this track included on the visual kei rock band Janne Da Arc’s album ARCADIA.

Released in July 2004, it’s a piece that graces the latter part of the album and can be considered one of the band’s hidden gems.

In contrast to the intensity you’d expect from a rock band, it’s a ballad whose gently plucked guitar tones and unadorned lyrics of love for one’s mother resonate deeply.

It delicately portrays the greatness of a parent that you only come to appreciate as an adult, as well as the childlike awkwardness that makes it hard to be honest, and just listening to it brings a slow, comforting warmth to the heart.

This May, why not listen to this song as if you were offering flowers to someone dear?

Ibukiyama

yama “Ibuki” MV (Kanro “Pure Gummy” commercial song)

A refreshing song by yama, perfect for karaoke in the season of dazzling fresh greenery.

Their clear, translucent voice gently wraps the everyday sparks of excitement and the sense of anticipation for a new season.

Released digitally in April 2023 and later included as the B-side of the single “slash” in May of the same year, this track was written for Kanro’s “Pure Gummy” commercial.

Its easygoing rhythm and bright tone make it perfect for May karaoke sessions with friends.

Feel the fresh breeze and sing it with a positive spirit.

Overdosenatori

Natori – Overdose

Singer-songwriter Natori, whose irresistibly addictive beats and languid vocals gained explosive support primarily on social media.

Released in September 2022, this debut track—now his signature song—is a danceable number that was also featured in Nike’s Air Max Excee campaign web commercial.

It was later included on his first album, “Gekijō,” and is known for dominating the streaming market, ranking high on 2023’s year-end charts.

Its thrilling lyrics, hinting at a sweetly seductive ruin, may resonate with the late-spring nights of May, when the fatigue of a new life begins to set in.

Why not surrender to the insistent rhythm and let even the gloom of the May blues melt into a pleasant intoxication?

The Milky Way in MayHata Motohiro

Gogatsu No Amanogawa

An achingly tender yet warm acoustic number that makes you want to listen while gazing up at the night sky in the season of fresh greenery.

Depicting the journey to visit a loved one who lives far away, this piece is included on singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata’s single “Dialogue Monologue,” released in April 2014.

Created for the live show “GREEN MIND,” which centers on solo performances, it captivates with a vivid, immersive sound born from sessions with fellow musicians.

The sense of distance entrusted to the Milky Way motif tugs at the heart, making even the long stretches of not being able to meet feel precious.

It’s a song that will gently accompany you on a quiet night drive or when you want to be alone with your thoughts.