Recent songs sung by male vocalists in Japanese music [2026]
In Japan’s music scene, countless artists emerge every day, each releasing a variety of tracks.
Recently, many songs have broken through thanks to social media like TikTok, and music trends are changing at a rapid pace.
In this article, we’ll spotlight the latest Japanese songs you often hear on social media and around town, focusing on tracks with male vocals.
We’ve picked selections across genres—from singer-songwriters to rock bands—so take this opportunity to give them a thorough listen.
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Recent Songs Sung by Male Vocalists in Japanese Music [2026] (141–150)
BOOSTSnow Man
This track breaks new ground with its weighty beats and audacious sound.
Released by Snow Man in October 2025, it makes an overwhelming impact.
Distinct from their previous pop idol songs, it features a massive, bass-heavy sound that instantly elevates the listener’s energy.
The music video is a must-see as well: over 300 lights and a troupe of 30 dancers deliver a large-scale, perfectly synchronized performance—truly breathtaking.
It’s a number that embodies pushing limits and embracing challenge.
Protect the Lightsupittsu
Released in October 2025 as a digital single—the first in about two and a half years—it serves as the opening theme for the TV anime SPY×FAMILY Season 3.
Masamune Kusano commented, “While it’s a work whose comical and cute depictions are fun, I wanted the song to face the sorrow that flows at the root of the story rather than run from it,” and true to his words, the sound beautifully captures a world where poignancy and hope intersect.
The rich arrangement, co-produced with Seiji Kameda, is also a highlight, with horn sections and organ adding vivid color.
It gently gives a push to the courage to protect what matters most.
What is happiness?Chiba Yūki
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.
Scent of LoveOkamura Kazuyoshi
The duo Okamura-Kazuyoshi, formed by Yasuyuki Okamura and Kazuyoshi Saito, released their seventh single in October 2025.
It’s an upbeat pop love song that expresses feelings for a loved one in a positive way, with sparkling sounds that create a sense of euphoria.
The piece carries a message about wanting to feel true love even amid complicated human relationships.
Listening while thinking of someone you miss might warm your heart.
1991Yonezu Kenshi
Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter leading the Japanese music scene.
This song, written as the theme for the live-action film “5 Centimeters per Second,” bears the title 1991—the year he was born—reflecting his deep attachment to the original work.
The lyrics, woven around themes of memory and loss that trace personal emotions, convey a will to keep moving forward while facing the past, making it highly relatable for many listeners.
It’s an emotional number that will resonate deeply with those at a turning point in life or anyone wishing to confront precious memories.
I Need U BackFuji Kaze
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.
Quivering with sweet sighsYoshii Kazuya
Kazuya Yoshii, a musician who has long led Japan’s rock scene.
Released in October 2025, this work was written as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama DEEP: “From Here on Out, It’s Hell.” Its deeply layered sound—blending elements of Showa-era kayokyoku and R&B—beautifully complements the drama’s world, which centers on forbidden love and desire.
The string and horn arrangements by Motoki Funayama and Takashi Tsurutani add brilliance, while the deliberately spacious structure leaves a distinctive afterglow.
Immerse yourself in this sophisticated love song for adults.