Karaoke that's popular right now: Recent songs you should know [2026]

Que sera, seraMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Que Sera Sera” Official Music Video

An uplifting song with a Mrs.-style melody and a bright, pop vocal that leaves a strong impression.

It gently encourages those who work hard every day—a heartwarming track.

Released in April 2023, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Sunday Night Is About Enough…”.

Packed with the charms of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, this work became a massive hit and earned them their first Japan Record Award in 2023.

It’s also popular for karaoke, perfect for cheering each other on.

The positive message contained in the phrase “Que Sera Sera” is sure to comfort someone’s heart.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing while really taking in its message.

Mirror, mirrorNEW!Saitō Kazuyoshi

Kazuyoshi Saito – Mirror, Mirror [Music Video]

Have you ever found yourself wanting to question the person reflected back at you when you catch a glimpse in the mirror? This is a powerful rock tune that carries the resolve to keep moving forward, trusting only in one’s own convictions despite doubts and anxieties.

Singer-songwriter Kazuyoshi Saito—known for songs like “Utautai no Ballad”—wrote it as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Okome no Onna: National Tax Agency Document Investigation Division, Miscellaneous Nations Office,” which began airing in January 2026.

Its lyrics, which teach the importance of not betraying yourself in an era where right and wrong waver, are deeply in sync with the drama’s worldview and are sure to encourage listeners every time they hear it.

With warm vocals and guitar tones that resonate in the heart, it’s a song you’ll want people to hear precisely when they’re troubled and on the verge of stopping in their tracks.

idolYOASOBI

YOASOBI "Idol" Official Music Video

An energetic pop tune by YOASOBI, a duo that turns novels into music.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Oshi no Ko, it became the first Japanese song to reach No.

1 on Billboard Global Excl.

U.S.

The lyrics, which portray the protagonist’s inner struggle as they pile up self-sacrifice and pretense behind an idol’s life, leave a strong impression.

While rooted in hip-hop elements, it’s produced as a pop track with a gothic rock flair, characterized by a choral atmosphere reminiscent of a church choir.

Released in June 2023, the song became a massive hit at lightning speed and ranks high on karaoke charts.

With its exhilarating melody and singable lines, it’s perfect for livening up parties and reunions.

It’s your fault.Nishino Kana

Kana Nishino “Because of You” MV Full

This number vividly portrays a couple’s petty squabble.

Released in February 2026, the track features a band sound rooted in indie rock.

Nishino’s slightly dry, urbane vibe offers a fresh change from her usual pop image.

The lyrics humorously capture an endless back-and-forth where both sides claim the other is to blame—sure to make you nod in recognition.

It was released ahead of the live video work “Special Live “Christmas Magic”,” which came out in March 2026.

ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Chessboard [Official Video]

“Chessboard” reached one million views on the video site in just one week after its release.

As expected from Official HIGE DANDism, it’s a song packed with heartfelt feelings about youth.

Chosen as the set piece for the junior high school division of the 90th NHK National School Music Competition, it seems likely to be sung for a long time to come.

The lyrics—“On a chessboard, the footing is fixed in black and white, but we want to choose our own path”—make it a quintessential Hige Dan-style youth anthem.

Of course, it’s also a great pick for those who aren’t in their youth anymore!