Karaoke is all the rage: Must-know recent songs [2025]

Unable to become an adultwhale

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.

PlayPerfume

[Official Music Video] Perfume 'Saisei' (Rebirth)

A song released by Perfume in December 2019.

Perfume has produced many karaoke staples over the years, and this track is another that fully showcases their world.

It starts with a slower intro before the beat suddenly takes off, creating a refreshing rush.

The four-on-the-floor dance rhythm makes it easy to get into and sing along with—likely to become a new classic.

A hundred flowers in full bloomLila Ikuta

The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Non-Credit Opening | Ikuta Lira “Hyakka Ryoran”

As the opening theme for Season 2 of the anime The Apothecary Diaries, the song performed by Rira Ikuta vividly depicts a world where the splendor of the inner palace intertwines with intrigue.

With a powerful melody, the piece portrays the protagonist pressing forward through adversity, and its jacket photo, created by Mika Ninagawa, has also become a talking point.

Scheduled for release alongside the anime’s broadcast starting in January 2025, this ambitious work marks Ikuta’s first solo tie-in with an anime, even as she is also known as the vocalist of YOASOBI.

Its grand sound and vocals that closely follow the story make it a perfect track not only for anime fans but for anyone seeking music that resonates with the heart.

REACHING FOR THE SKYMAN WITH A MISSION

MAN WITH A MISSION「REACHING FOR THE SKY」

A song by MAN WITH A MISSION that stands out with its driving rock sound and bittersweet melody.

It depicts the sense of loss for what’s gone and the courage to walk your own path without fearing the gaze of bystanders, resulting in a track that conveys a strong will to keep reaching higher.

Released in January 2025, it has drawn attention as the lead single from the EP “XV,” which commemorates the band’s 15th anniversary.

Its powerful sound and strong message are sure to be a source of support when you’re striving toward new goals or facing a turning point in life.

Immerse yourself in this uplifting anthem packed with the fiery energy that is quintessentially MAN WITH A MISSION.

CrescendoASTERISM

ASTERISM – Crescendo, TV anime “The Unfavorable Job: Appraiser Was Actually the Strongest” opening theme

ASTERISM, who champion “Mass Metal,” a fusion of meticulously constructed heavy metal and their unique pop sensibility.

This release marks their first anime tie-in song and a new challenge that incorporates vocals.

Centered on themes of self-trust and growth, it powerfully conveys the importance of overcoming hardships and moving forward.

The track will be available for pre-release streaming on January 24, 2025, with the CD release on March 5.

It has been selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “The Unfortunate Job: Appraiser Was Actually the Strongest,” and the song aligns seamlessly with the anime’s world.

It’s a perfect track for anyone who wants to believe in themselves and keep pushing ahead.

whipB’z

B’z / Whip

This work stands out with its powerful guitar riffs and energetic vocals.

It’s a hard rock number quintessentially B’z, portraying a person who relentlessly pushes themselves.

You can feel from the lyrics the act of driving oneself forward, trying to surpass one’s limits.

Released as a digital single in January 2025, it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Digital Single Ranking.

It was also written as the theme song for the ABEMA original drama “Informer: Beasts Living in the Dark.” It’s a recommended track for those who tend to overwork themselves or want a song to fire them up.

UtopiaICEx

ICEx – Utopia (Official Audio)

ICEx’s new song is a powerful work that etches thoughts of dreams and ideals into the heart.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime “RINGING FATE,” it brilliantly captures both the pure wishes of youth and the harshness of reality.

The single, set for release on February 26, 2025, will come in a standard edition as well as two limited first-press editions with Blu-ray, making it irresistible for fans.

Listening to this track inspires a strong desire to strive toward your goals.

It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone who has experienced setbacks or wants to take a new step forward.