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

Unable to become an adultkujira

Unable to become an adult

This song is striking for its vocals that gently weave a delicate, fleeting sense of longing, paired with a melody that softly wraps around the listener.

It warmly depicts a young person facing forward despite anxieties and confusion about growing up, and the loneliness and ordinariness they carry.

With Kujira’s signature subtle expressiveness, it tenderly renders true-to-life emotions.

The track was written as the theme song for the film “Senpai wa Otokonoko: Ame nochi Hare,” set for release in February 2025.

Kujira also handled both the opening and ending themes for the TV anime series “Senpai wa Otokonoko,” further enriching the world of the work.

It’s a song that gently speaks to those feeling uncertainty or doubt, offering solace while affirming the importance of living true to oneself.

Fragiletota

Fragile / Tota – Fragile / Tota

Many people have had the experience of working toward a dream—or having done so in the past.

For those people, I recommend “Kowaremono.” It’s a ballad released by the singer-songwriter Tota.

The song portrays how, as we grow up, we gradually give up on our dreams, yet still can’t quite let go and choose to try again.

Its bittersweet yet hopeful lyrics will resonate with everyone.

Be sure to check it out along with the music video set in a school building.

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yamamoto

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By your side.riria.

riria. / By Your Side [Music Video]

Singer-songwriter Riria, who made her major debut under VIA—a label born with a focus on digital distribution.

Her single “By Your Side,” released digitally on July 6, 2023, was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime My Happy Marriage.

The lyrics, which depict an encounter powerful enough to change one’s values, are likely to resonate with anyone who has ever been in love.

It’s a pop yet sentimental number, where a cute singing voice and delicate piano create a moving contrast.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Let’s be the protagonist! feat. Airi SuzukiŌishi Masayoshi

MasaYoshi Oishi – Let's Be the Protagonist! feat. Airi Suzuki [Official Video]

It’s a song with a refreshing melody and uplifting lyrics that really resonate.

The back-and-forth between Masayoshi Ōishi and Airi Suzuki is wonderful, and just listening to it gives you energy.

The phrase “You’ve got to do what you want to do!” feels like a push on the back.

This work has been used as the opening theme for a TV anime since January 2025.

It’s a collaboration with a golf-themed anime, and the casting of Airi Suzuki—who comes from a golfing family—also drew attention.

It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to take on something new or live true to themselves.

Last live showBurandē Senki

Brandy War Chronicles – Last Live (Official Music Video)

Brandy Senki is a girls’ band gaining popularity for their sophisticated musicality.

While their foundation is rock, it’s striking how they weave in a variety of genres, starting with Black music.

Their new track, Last Live, is unusually pure and orthodox rock for them, with no additives.

The riff has a cool edge, but the vocal line undulates gently and the range is relatively narrow, making it an easier song to sing than its impactful energy might suggest.