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

I’m your hero.After the Rain

[MV] I'm Your Hero / After the Rain (Soraru × Mafumafu)

Unlike the heroes on TV, this song is filled with down-to-earth charm.

Its warm lyrics, which stand by those who’ve been doing their best on their own and cry with them in sad times, resonate deeply.

After the Rain’s soothing harmonies further enhance the song’s lyrical world.

This track is the title song of the album “I’m Your Hero,” released in October 2023, and serves as the crowning piece of their third full-length album—their first in five years.

The delicate vocals and powerful melodies woven by Soraru and Mafumafu remind us of the beauty of having someone who can be there for your heart through music.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on sleepless nights or when you feel like you might break.

HEARTKing&Prince

King & Prince 「HEART」MV

As the theme song for the TV drama “Falling for an Heir Is Just Too Hard,” starring Ren Nagase, King & Prince crafted a splendid love song set for release in March 2025.

Its gentle, uplifting sound and the refined choreography by dancer MONA create a heartwarming atmosphere.

The melody hints at the refreshing arrival of spring, and the lyrics, sparkling with swoon-worthy expressions, fully showcase the charm of King & Prince.

While aligning with the drama’s story, this song marks a new frontier made possible precisely by the duo of Ren Nagase and Kaito Takahashi.

It’s recommended not only for idol fans but also for anyone who wants to enjoy a pure love story.

New PageSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

‘New Page’ Story Video / Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS

A warm sound that gently wraps around you seeps into the heart.

This song by Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS, released in May 2025, was chosen as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s news program Mr.

Sunday.

Distinct from their signature powerful dance numbers, it carries a message that softly supports those who feel anxious about tomorrow.

It’s crafted to offer a sense of healing when you happen to hear it in everyday life.

It’s the perfect cheering song for people leading busy lives or those who want to get their minds ready for the start of a new week.

Have you seen the rainbow that spans the sea?Moriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama / “Have You Seen the Rainbow Stretching Across That Sea?” & “Bye-Bye” Music Video (Studio Session)

It’s a blissful track that pursues the unique joy of bluegrass.

Written by Naotaro Moriyama, it was released in May 2025 alongside “Bye-Bye” as a simultaneous two-song digital release.

Its acoustic sound paired with a lively rhythm creates a warm atmosphere that naturally brings a smile to your face.

The lyrics are filled with poetic expressions that evoke vast natural landscapes, drawing you deeply into its world.

It’s a great song for a refreshing change of mood.

GET BACKyuzu

GET BACK

As a Reiwa-era anime song, this ambitious piece mixes the world of Pokémon with Yuzu’s pop sensibilities, crafted by TeddyLoid.

Released in May 2025 as the opening theme for the new chapter “Mega Voltage” of the anime Pokémon, the track delivers a powerful message about reclaiming a lost future, unfolding like a suite.

It marks the first co-written work in about five years by Yujin Kitagawa and Koji Iwasawa, featuring lyrics peppered with Pokémon motifs and a sound that fuses contemporary Japanese culture.

Yuzu’s first anime theme in roughly seven years, this song is recommended not only for anime fans but also for listeners seeking fresh expressions in pop music.

A world that sways around youMarushii

Marcy – The world that sways around you (Official Music Video)

Opening with crisp, refreshing guitar tones, this song—capturing the exhilaration of falling in love—was released in May 2025 as JTB’s nationwide commercial theme.

Created by Marcy, a three-piece band from Fukuoka, it’s a classic love song that poignantly frames the sweet moments spent with a partner.

Within the liberating guitar-rock sound, Ukyo Yoshida’s translucent vocals leave a strong impression, and the relatable, signature Marcy lyrics are another highlight.

The music video features influencer Noa—whose total following exceeds 3.3 million—and, paired with exhilarating footage shot in Kagawa Prefecture, the themes of travel and romance are rendered even more compelling.

Evoking the feel of a summer romance, the comfortable, breezy sound makes it a perfect track for drives and trips with someone special.

StarHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Star [Official Video]

A bold musical challenge fused with a groovy sound, this new signature work from J-pop maverick Gen Hoshino marks his first album in about six and a half years, Gen.

Released in advance of the album, the track is also featured in a commercial for ASAHI’s coffee brand Wonda and its new product.

While rooted in pop, it boasts a sophisticated sound design infused with soul and R&B elements, and its memorable music video—showing him strolling through the city while humming the lyrics—has become a talking point.

Collaborations with international artists such as Louis Cole and Sam Gendel push him into new musical territory.

With the Gen Hoshino presents MAD HOPE Asia Tour also announced, this is a must-hear track for music fans seeking a comfortable groove and refined musicality.