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

brilliant; radiantNEW!SUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Sanzan” MV (Theme song for “Gintama: New Theatrical Version - Yoshiwara in Flames”)

Even more than 20 years after their formation, the rock band SUPER BEAVER continues to win support with their straightforward lyrics and fiery live performances.

Released on February 11, 2026, the single “Sanzan / Ikigai” features this title track, written as the theme song for the film “Gintama: New Theatrical Edition – Yoshiwara in Flames.” Despite a title that suggests dazzling brilliance, the song turns its gaze toward emotions like personal weakness and regret, and from there builds a sense of hope for the future—something that can’t help but stir the heart.

While the sound is robust enough not to be outdone by the scale of the story, it’s imbued with the kind of down-to-earth message characteristic of the band.

That stance—pressing forward even if it’s rough around the edges—may well be a powerful tailwind for those who, despite carrying worries and pain, are doing their best to live each day.

Kabukimono¥ellow bucks

¥ellow Bucks – Kabukimono [Official Video]

Rapper ¥ellow Bucks, who leads Japan’s hip-hop scene from his base in Nagoya.

“Kabukimono,” included on his fourth album Wataru released in January 2026, is a powerful track that fuses Japanese elements with a heavy beat.

Within an album that bears his real name, this work presents his way of life as a “kabukimono,” someone who refuses to conform to established norms.

The lyrics, which embody a rebellious spirit and unwavering aesthetic, set your heart ablaze with every listen.

I don’t need it.NEW!Sakanakushon

I don't need it.

This rock number features lyrics that reveal true feelings at odds with the words themselves, piercing the heart over a danceable beat.

Created by Sakanaction, it will be released digitally in February 2026.

It was written as the theme song for the drama “Kochira Yobi Jieieiyu Ho?!” Ichiro Yamaguchi, the band’s vocalist, produced it in response to a request from Koji Kato, a senior from his hometown.

Even while rejecting, you can’t help but want it… Many people will probably relate to that kind of contradictory emotion.

It’s perfect as late-night driving BGM.

Be blueNEW!Penthouse

Penthouse – Be Blue [Official Music Video]

Penthouse is a six-piece city soul band formed in the University of Tokyo’s music circle, active under the concept of “music that adds a touch of sophistication to everyday life.” Released for streaming in February 2026, “Aoku Are” was created as the broadcast theme song for the 6th National University Coed Ekiden.

Offering a fresh twist from their usual refined city soul, it features a rock-leaning arrangement brimming with 8-beat drive.

The lyrics, which portray the nobility of continuing to run in pursuit of a fleeting moment of brilliance, are likely to resonate not only with athletes but with anyone standing at a crossroads in life.

It’s a rousing anthem you’ll want to hear in make-or-break moments, where the twin vocals’ power and the band’s raw intensity come through directly.

KΛLEIDOSCAPENEW!Haruno

KΛLEIDOSCAPE – Haruno: MUSIC VIDEO [Arknights: Endfield]

This work by singer-songwriter Haruno, released in February 2026, was produced as the launch campaign song for the action RPG Arknights: Endfield.

It’s an unofficial image song for the in-game character Gilberta.

A medium-tempo track where a dramatic sound meets silky vocals, it’s finished with a pleasing, gently saturating sonic texture.

Give it a listen while reflecting on the worldview of the lyrics, tinged with a quiet sense of longing.

This is just fine!NEW!WEST.

WEST. – This Is How It Should Be! [Official Music Video]

With its positive message and explosive band sound, “Kore de Ii no da!” leaves a strong impression.

Featured as the lead track on the album “Yuiitsu Muni,” set for release on March 10, 2026, this song was written, composed, and even choreographed by member Daiki Shigeoka.

The vibrant sound crafted by the interplay of guitar, bass, and drums stands out.

It’s perfect for times when you want a confidence boost or to kick-start your day with a positive mindset!

one secondNEW!SixTONES

SixTONES – One Second [YouTube ver.]

This is an athlete support song from the Nippon TV network that colored the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics, which kicked off in February 2026.

Sung by SixTONES, the piece was created based on the athletes’ real words gathered by the anchors during interviews, and you can keenly feel the burning passion poured into those decisive moments of competition.

The powerful sound, fusing elements of rock and dance, also makes your heart race.

It’s sure to resonate not only with athletes, but as a fight song for everyone battling through daily challenges like exams or work.