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

lilacNEW!Mrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

A guitar-rock tune that combines a refreshing sense that rings out under a blue sky with a touch of bittersweetness.

Released by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE in April 2024, this song was written as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oblivion Battery.” While cherishing the transience of days gone by, it carries a positive message of trying to love even your imperfect self and the wounds you bear.

Motoki Omori’s expansive vocals and the technical performance will give listeners a powerful push forward.

May is a time when the tension of a new chapter eases a little, and you may suddenly feel lonely.

How about singing this song with your friends to blow away your everyday haze?

MarigoldNEW!aimyon

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Singer-songwriter Aimyon captivates listeners across generations with her nostalgic musicality.

Released in August 2018, this work is her fifth single, the one that rapidly boosted her popularity.

Vivid summer imagery—like straw hats and swaying flowers—and lyrics that sing of unfading love, both heartrending and powerful, are sure to set hearts ablaze.

In breezy, comfortable May, the melody that makes you want to hum along as early summer approaches is perfect for a drive or a stroll.

Why not belt it out at karaoke, filled with unchanging feelings?

scale (as of a fish or reptile)NEW!Hata Motohiro

Motohiro Hata – “Uroko (Scales)” Music Video

A celebrated ballad by Motohiro Hata that portrays a strong will to cast off one’s shell and head toward someone precious.

Released as a single in June 2007, it was later included on the acclaimed album “Contrast.” The lyrics, which liken the singer to a swimming fish, express a delicate heart afraid of being hurt and the courage to move forward nonetheless.

In 2016, it was chosen as the ending theme for the drama “Happy Marriage!?” and has continued to be loved for years.

Its structure, which surges at the chorus, makes it especially satisfying to sing at karaoke.

Now that you’re getting used to a new chapter in life, why not sing it with feeling on a May night when you suddenly feel uneasy?

Kaiju no Hanabuta (Monster’s Flower Song)NEW!Vaundy

Monster’s Flower Song / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

A track whose exhilarating band sound and somehow nostalgic melody stir the heart.

Sung by the multi-artist Vaundy, who handles everything from songwriting to video production, this piece was featured as the commercial song for Maruha Nichiro’s frozen food “WILDish,” creating a huge buzz.

It’s included on his first album, “strobo,” released in May 2020, and its charm remains undimmed even now.

The powerful lyrics, which seem to affirm past memories and individuality, are sure to gently resonate with hearts settling into new routines in May.

Why not feel the fresh early-summer breeze and belt it out together with friends?

Rainy DriverNEW!imase

【imase】Rainy Driver（Official Audio）

A track by imase that fuses the slightly bittersweet scene of a rainy-day drive with an exhilarating, fast-paced beat.

Included on his first album “Bonsai,” released in May 2024, this song stands out with its danceable sound that incorporates UK garage and 2-step rhythms.

The lyrics link the awkward atmosphere inside a car driving on the Shuto Expressway with the rainy weather, and imase reportedly created them by chaining words together like a word-association game.

It’s also perfect for karaoke on a rainy day in May when you want to blow away a cloudy mood.

Why not ride the bouncy rhythm and deliberately sing it coolly?