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A roundup of songs that start with “U.” Perfect for shiritori or picking tracks at karaoke!

When you’re playing word-chain games using J-POP song titles, or doing “shiritori karaoke” where the next song is chosen by the last letter of the previous one, some of you might search for something like “songs that start with XX,” right?

So in this article, we’ll introduce a whole bunch of songs that start with “u.”

There are lots of words that begin with “u” that are commonly used in song titles—like umi (sea), wedding, uso (lie), and utsukushii (beautiful).

We’ve picked out a wide range of songs across different eras and by artists of all genders, so use this as a reference for choosing your next track!

Songs that start with “U”: a roundup. Perfect for shiritori or picking karaoke tracks! (31–40)

Utakata LullabyAdo

[Ado] Fleeting Bubble Lullaby (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)
Utakata LullabyAdo

Created as an insert song for the movie ONE PIECE FILM RED, which sparked a social phenomenon, this track became a sensation for its overwhelming addictiveness.

The sound fusing swing jazz and rap boosts your energy every time you listen.

It’s included on the album Uta no Uta ONE PIECE FILM RED, released in August 2022.

There’s also a well-known anecdote that it was made in response to an order from the original creator, Eiichiro Oda, to craft a “brainwashing” kind of song.

Ado’s mercurial, high-speed rap—fired off like a machine gun—is truly breathtaking.

When you want to sharpen your focus and dive into your tasks, this energetic number will give you the push you need!

Have the plums bloomed? Are the cherry blossoms not yet?Metis

Have the plum blossoms bloomed? Are the cherry blossoms not yet, I wonder? Metis Top songs audio
Have the plums bloomed? Are the cherry blossoms not yet?Metis

This is singer-songwriter Metis’s major-label debut single, “Has the Plum Blossomed? Is the Cherry Not Yet?” Released in January 2007, it was used as the opening theme for programs including Toyama Television’s “bbt music selection.” The song stands out for its title inspired by an Edo-period short lyric song (端唄, hauta) and its sound that incorporates traditional Japanese elements.

Its lyrics, which long for the arrival of spring, resonate with the feelings of standing at life’s milestones such as entrance exams and graduation.

It’s an uplifting anthem recommended for anyone seeking courage.

Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Spirits of the Sea
Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi

How about a beautiful, dreamlike world that feels as if you’re sinking into the deep sea? This is a song by Kenshi Yonezu, a leading figure in the J-pop scene.

Its weighty orchestration blends with processed vocals, enveloping you in a curious, otherworldly sensation as you listen.

The lyrics, which evoke the presence of precious things unseen, stir a quiet sense of emotion.

Released as a digital single in June 2019, the track was written as the theme song for the animated film Children of the Sea, and it is also included on the album STRAY SHEEP.

Yonezu has been a fan of the original manga since his teens and had long hoped to create a song for its adaptation.

It’s a piece filled with respect for the original author.

Perfect for when you want to forget the everyday and surrender yourself to an overwhelming wave of sound.

We are ogres!ONIGAWARA

An uptempo track by ONIGAWARA, the self-proclaimed super J-POP unit, that feels like it packages the frenzy of their live shows as-is.

Closing out their June 2018 album “GAWARA!,” this song also appeared on a release distributed in February of the same year.

True to its title, it uses the motif of ‘oni’ (demons/ogres) while delivering an exuberantly bright message that wholeheartedly affirms everyone gathered there.

The lyrics are packed with cues for call-and-response and clapping, making your body want to move just by listening.

It’s perfect not only as BGM for Setsubun bean-throwing, but anytime you want to pump yourself up and get the crowd going!

weeeekNEWS

NEWS – weeeek [Official Music Video]
weeeekNEWS

Born from a luxurious collaboration featuring a brand-new song written by GReeeeN, this is a cheer anthem that sends support to everyone who works.

The lyrics, themed around the days of the week, carry a powerful message: even as we feel worn out by the repetition that starts on Monday, let’s keep moving forward with a positive spirit toward the weekend’s fun.

Released as a single in November 2007, it also became widely known as the commercial song for the clothing brand Crymson / RUSS-K.

Its rock-infused sound and bouncing rhythm will have your body moving before you know it.

This track is perfect for an energy boost to power through each day.

Listen to it during your morning commute or when you need one last push, and refresh both your mind and body!

Songs that start with “U”: a roundup for word-chain games and karaoke song selection! (41–50)

Would You Like One?Travis Japan

Travis Japan – ‘Would You Like One?’ Music Video
Would You Like One?Travis Japan

From the very first notes, the exhilarating intro and irresistibly funky beat will get your body moving—perfect as background music for a thank-you party! Released by Travis Japan in April 2025, this track is a dance number packed with a positive message: enjoy life and keep moving forward, no matter how tough things get.

Created as the theme song for the film “Tabekko Doubutsu THE MOVIE,” it features unique, food-themed lyrics and choreography you’ll want to copy.

The video, which pairs a retro aesthetic with sharply executed dance, also became a hot topic.

Inspired by the group’s top-tier dance skills since their global debut, stepping in unison will surely send the crowd’s sense of unity soaring.

It’s a perfect song to recommend to everyone looking to celebrate a new beginning with smiles!

Whey!runrun

[Original MV] Hey!/Way! [Runrun / NIJISANJI]
Whey!runrun

Lunlun, a VTuber from NIJISANJI who captivates fans with a unique presence and deft word choice.

Released in December 2025, this work marks her fourth digital single.

The lyrics and melody were written by Lunlun herself, with track production by Kijibato of Dream Monster.

Its passionate pursuit of an object of admiration and its uplifting message of self-encouragement powerfully push forward anyone striving toward their dreams.

It’s an upbeat tune that fills you with energy just by listening.