Recent songs sung by male vocalists in Japanese music [2026]

I was totally shocked.ROF-MAO

ROF-MAO – Ottamage-ttan

This is a song by ROF-MAO, a male unit from the VTuber group NIJISANJI.

Written specifically for NHK’s “Minna no Uta” for October and November 2025, the track carries a positive message that laughs off the surprises and bewilderment we encounter in everyday life.

It expresses the resolve to keep moving forward even when you stumble, paired with a bright, up-tempo pop sound.

It’s a number that lifts your spirits and gives you positive energy when you need a boost.

What is happiness?Chiba Yūki

Yuki Chiba — What Is Happiness? [Official Music Video]

Released in October 2025, “What Is Happiness?” was selected as the theme song for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV Monday 10 p.m.

drama The Final Rondo — To You Whom I Can Never Meet Again.

With this track, Chiba ventured into a style reminiscent of kayōkyoku, emphasizing the melody line.

The lyrics, written in plain language about everyday struggles and ordinary views of happiness, speak to the universal question, “What is happiness?” It’s a moving song that gently comforts those who have experienced parting or loss of someone dear.

I Need U BackFuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – I Need U Back [Official video]

A track included on singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze’s third album, “Prema,” released in September 2025.

It’s an English-language number that layers a heartfelt desire to regain lost passion over a retro sound inspired by late-1980s to early-1990s R&B and New Jack Swing.

Its lyrics, centered on rebirth from burnout and self-recovery, are sure to resonate with anyone grappling with doubt and inner conflict.

It stands by you when you need the courage to move forward.

HEROHirano Riku

Riku Hirano – HERO (Music Video)

This song candidly expresses gratitude to the artist’s mother.

It was released in October 2025 by Riku Hirano, who is active as a rapper and dancer.

Reflecting on memories of separation and illness, the song ultimately declares a desire to become a hero like his mother.

The arrangement—layering children’s chorus with strings and brass—expands that sentiment into a universal story.

It’s a perfect listen when you want to revisit and reflect on your appreciation for family.

DANGERMAZZEL

MAZZEL / DANGER -Music Video-

This work by the dance and vocal group MAZZEL, released in August 2025, blends Japanese aesthetics with street sounds, featuring unpredictable developments that are part of its appeal.

Its world combines a tension that slices through silence with a burning passion to face adversity, stirring the hearts of listeners.

It’s a cool dance tune perfect for those seeking thrill and excitement in everyday life.

It was selected as the ending theme for the information program “DayDay.” and became a hot topic.

TOGEAKASAKI

【AKASAKI】TOGE (Lyric Video)

Singer-songwriter AKASAKI, who’s been drawing attention in the J-pop scene—especially with their signature track “Bunny Girl” surpassing 100 million total streams—released their 16th single, “TOGE,” in September 2025.

The track stands out for its airy, floating ensemble.

The lyrics are likely to resonate deeply with anyone who’s experienced miscommunication in love or struggled with their own conflicting feelings.

It’s a tune that sticks in your head after just one listen.

Wanna beteddyloid

Wanna be

Producer TeddyLoid, known for electronic music and his work on anime and game soundtracks, has created this ambitious new track as the opening theme for the TV anime “Tōjima Tanzaburō Wants to Be Kamen Rider,” airing from October 2025.

Featuring Shigeru Matsuzaki and TOPHAMHAT-KYO, the song pairs a powerful four-on-the-floor beat—channeling the fervor of a hero-struck protagonist—with razor-sharp synth leads.

In the chorus, Matsuzaki’s soaring high notes explode, sonically amplifying the series’ central theme of transformation.

A must-listen for fans of hero stories!