Yuri’s recommended songs: from heart-touching masterpieces to tracks that shine at karaoke

merry-go-roundYuuri

Yuuri “Merry-Go-Round” Official Music Video

A ballad written as the theme song for the feature-length animated film “Lonely Castle in the Mirror,” released in December 2022.

It’s a number in which Yuuri sings with gentle yet powerful emotion about the heartache of thinking of someone precious who’s far away, and the attachment that doesn’t fade.

The song is also included toward the end of the album “Ni,” and its themes—loneliness, pain, and connection with others, which mirror the film’s worldview—moved many listeners to tears.

It carries a resolve to accept even the suffering that comes with loving and to keep living, and its heart-wrenching melody is perfect for moments when you want to listen closely while thinking of someone dear.

It’s a work I hope not only those who want to savor the lingering feelings after watching the film will hear, but also anyone seeking a soul-stirring masterpiece.

LeoYuuri

Yuuri 'Leo' Official Music Video

Singer-songwriter Yuuri, whose powerful vocals and heartfelt messages are loved by a wide range of generations.

This piece, included on his album “Ichi,” released in January 2022, is a heartwarming ballad themed around the bond between a dog and its owner.

The released music video drew a huge response, and by August 2022 the total number of streams surpassed 100 million.

The lyrics, which portray the preciousness of everyday life we take for granted, gently tug at listeners’ hearts.

For karaoke, focus on a conversational phrasing while building the emotion toward the chorus.

It’s a gem of a masterpiece you’ll want to savor on nights when you’re thinking of your beloved family.

Sakura Clear SkiesYuuri

Sakura Clear Skies

This is a ballad that makes you want to express gratitude to your parents and friends in the season of farewells and new beginnings.

It’s a work by Yuuri, a singer-songwriter known for his heartrending yet powerful vocals, and the simple arrangement centered on piano and strings brings out each and every word.

Inspired by an email from a fan, it was released in February 2021.

It was later included on the album “Ichi,” released in January 2022, and has become a beloved staple of the graduation season.

Although there was no specific tie-in, behind-the-scenes footage of the production was shared, and together with that background, it resonated with many people.

With a relaxed tempo and a comfortable vocal range, it’s also well-suited for singing earnestly at karaoke.

Picture someone important to you, and take your time listening.

KagomeYuuri

Yuri “Kagome” Official Music Video

Triggered by a video post on social media, Yuuri broke out and has since become a leading figure in the J-pop scene.

This song was released digitally in February 2020 during his indie days, and its lyrics, which sharply depict society’s indifference and loneliness, really pierce the heart.

Later included on the album “Ichi,” the track made a solid mark even before his major-label debut, earning the weekly No.

1 spot on the USEN indie ranking.

Unlike his signature sweet love song “Dry Flower,” this work carries a raw, tingling tension, which in turn allows the singer’s emotions to be expressed more directly.

In karaoke, rather than fixating on pitch, if you pour feeling into each word and sing as if speaking to the listener, the song’s appeal will truly shine.

AstronautYuuri

Yuuri 'Astronauts' Official Music Video (Kamikishibai Music Video)

This is a heartwarming ballad written and composed by Yuuri, included on the album “Ni,” released in March 2023.

Its narrative lyrics, depicting a journey into space and the bonds of the family left behind, are sure to bring listeners to tears.

Though set against the grandeur of the cosmos, the song ultimately sings of intimate, urgent love, and Yuuri’s powerful yet gentle voice resonates deeply in the heart.

The song also gained attention as the first picture-story show (kamishibai) style music video directed by Ryohei Shingu.

The poignant story, drawn with lines and empty space, further elevates the song’s worldview.

Because it so delicately expresses the feeling of cherishing someone dear, it’s a perfect track for a quiet night when you want to immerse yourself in the lyrics alone.

InfinityYuuri

Infinity

This is Yuri’s third major digital single, written as the ending theme for the TV anime “SK∞ SK8 the Infinity.” With lyrics themed around everlasting friendship and bonds, and a warm yet powerful sound centered on acoustic guitar, it’s a truly captivating track.

Released digitally in January 2021 and later included on the long-awaited first album “Ichi,” the song brims with positive energy that gently pushes listeners forward.

Its liberating melody that bursts open toward the chorus is perfect for getting hyped at karaoke with dear friends.

The key to singing it well is to be mindful of the dynamic contrast: from the talk-like delivery in the verse to the strong, resonant vocals in the chorus.

MizukiriYuuri

Mizukiri

Singer-songwriter Yuuri, whose moving vocals continue to captivate many listeners.

This track, included on his first album “Ichi,” released in January 2022, was written as an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “SUPER RICH.” The way the world becomes tinged with color through love and the sparkle of moments when the distance to someone precious grows smaller overlap with the image of a stone skipping across the water, striking straight to the heart.

Though an album track, it boasts such popularity that it has surpassed 100 million streams, and it is cherished as one of Yuuri’s signature songs.

With a structure that lets emotions swell toward the chorus, it’s perfect for times when you want to sing with feeling, or belt it out comfortably at karaoke.