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

Hide-and-seekYuuri

Yuuri “Kakurenbo” Official Music Video

This ballad vividly conveys the ache of a love that has ended through lifelike details left behind in the room.

Yuuri captivates many listeners with his powerful vocals and delicate expression.

This piece, released in December 2019 during his indie period, is a masterpiece that can be called his starting point.

It’s also known as a story that leads into the later mega-hit “Dry Flower,” and it was used in the Hulu drama “Dry Flower – Room of July -.” It’s included on the album “Ichi,” and continues to be listened to on streaming platforms today.

The structure that explodes with emotion toward the chorus is challenging, but when you want to sing with all your heart, it’s sure to be a perfect choice.

Dried flowersYuuri

Yuri “Dry Flower” Official Music Video - Director’s Cut ver. -

Released in October 2020 as the second major-label digital single, this song is a rock ballad told from a woman’s perspective that continues the story of the indie-era track “Kakurenbo.” The poignant scenes of two people growing apart are truly heart-wrenching.

It became a record-breaking long-running hit, topping Billboard JAPAN’s 2021 year-end overall chart.

It’s one of Yuuri’s signature numbers, also included on the album “Ichi.” The progression from the conversational tone of the first verse to the powerful vocals in the chorus is stunning, making it a great pick when you want to pour your emotions into a karaoke performance.

The vocal range is wide and the difficulty is on the higher side, but it’s worth trying after finding a key that suits you.

Christmas EveYuuri

Yuuri 'Christmas Eve' Official Music Video

Starting from street performances and spreading through social media, singer-songwriter Yuuri has now become a leading figure in the J-POP scene.

Released in November 2022, this work is his first-ever Christmas song.

Its heartrending lyrics, where faded scenery interweaves with feelings that won’t disappear, grip the listener’s heart tightly.

Also included on the following year’s album “Ni,” the song is quintessentially Yuuri, focusing less on festive splendor and more on the loneliness of “not being able to meet.” When singing it at karaoke, the key is to be mindful of the dynamics—from the quietly spoken opening to the chorus where emotions overflow.

On nights when the winter chill makes you long for someone, or when you want to heal the pain of a broken heart, why not take your time and really listen?

Biri MillionYuuri

Yuuri “Birimirion” Official Music Video

A heartwarming encouragement song by Yuuri themed around the preciousness of time in life and the importance of making choices without regret.

The lyrics, which pose the question “What if you could sell your remaining lifespan?”, are striking and make you reflect on the meaning of life.

Released as a digital single in January 2023 and included as the first track on the album ‘Ni,’ this song’s appeal lies in its powerful, positive message that gives listeners a strong push forward.

The flipbook-style music video created by Tekken also became a major talking point, and the song has enjoyed a long run with over 300 million total streams.

From the conversational opening to the liberating chorus, it’s sure to lift your spirits when you’re feeling uncertain.

With a catchy, easy-to-remember melody, it’s also perfect for karaoke when you want to sing along with everyone and get the energy up.

shutterYuuri

Yuuri 'Shutter' Official Music Video

This is a bittersweet ballad that uses a camera—one that captures precious moments—as its motif, portraying lingering attachment and regret over a lost love.

Originally written for the videographer of Yuuri’s YouTube channel, the self-cover version of the song was released in July 2021.

It was later included on the acclaimed album “Ichi,” and it’s become a hugely popular number among fans.

Though it never had a major tie-in, it resonated with many people, as evidenced by its long-running success on streaming platforms.

With a medium tempo and an easy-to-remember melody, it’s perfect for singing with heartfelt emotion.

The chorus demands delicate expression, switching between chest voice and falsetto; if you fully inhabit the song’s protagonist as you sing, it will deeply move listeners.

Peter PanYuuri

Yuuri “Peter Pan” Official Music Video (Full)

Major debut song “Peter Pan” by Yuuri, who gained immense popularity through his activity on social media.

Released as a digital single in August 2020 and included on the album “Ichi,” it’s an upbeat tune.

The lyrics, which convey a strong resolve to chase one’s dreams, and the driving rock sound come together as an uplifting anthem.

Since April 2021, it has also been used in corporate commercials for DIP Corporation, so many of you have likely heard it at least once.

With over 100 million streams, the song continues to give listeners a boost.

It’s perfect not only for times when you want to take on a challenge, but also for hyping up the crowd at karaoke.

BetelgeuseYuuri

Yuuri “Betelgeuse” Official Music Video

Do you know the standout ballad in which Yuuri powerfully sings about the bonds with someone dear, inspired by stars shining in the night sky? Blending lyrics themed around human connection with a heart-stirring, emotional vocal performance, this song speaks deeply to listeners.

Released for streaming in November 2021, it was written as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “SUPER RICH.” It was later included on the 2022 album “Ichi,” and has enjoyed a long run on streaming services.

The explosive lift in the chorus is breathtaking, making it a perfect choice for karaoke when you want to sing your heart out.

Give it a listen on a night spent with close friends or in moments when you want to feel a sense of connection with someone.