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

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.

Tonight is a Hearty PartyJuice=Juice

Juice=Juice “Hearty Party Tonight” Promotion Edit

This work, a cover of Mariya Takeuchi’s classic song, is brimming with fun and warmth.

It portrays how people forget their everyday worries and gain energy for tomorrow through parties with friends.

It’s included on a single set for release in February 2025 and has also been chosen as a TV program theme.

When it was first performed at the Nippon Budokan in November 2024, the Christmas party–themed production reportedly brought the house down.

It’s the perfect track for when you want to enjoy time with friends or when you need a boost of energy.

Only onecoarse sugar

Only one

Written as the ending theme for Rurouni Kenshin, this piece is a song packed with Zarame’s blend of light and shadow.

Set to an up-tempo rock sound, it sings about the importance of the words “welcome home” and “I’m home.” It conveys the feelings of thinking of each other even when apart, and the desire to say “you’re not alone,” striking a chord in the heart.

Digital release in January 2025, CD release in March.

It might be a perfect song for those living away from family or loved ones, or in long-distance relationships.

Why not let Zarame’s vocals soothe you as you reflect on the people who matter most?

NE-CHU-SHOWBocchi Boromaru

NE-CHU-SHOW / Bocchi Boromaru (Music Video) | TV Anime “Baban Babamban Vampire” Ending Theme

Spun by Bocchi Boromaru, this song channels the burning ache of longing into a pop-infused melody.

Feverish infatuation and dizzying emotions intertwine exquisitely with breezy guitars and a lively beat.

Selected as the ending theme for the anime “Baban Baban Ban Ban Vampire,” it was released in January 2025.

With a bittersweet afterglow that evokes the end of summer and the exhilarating lift of being in love, it beautifully captures both the sour and the sweet of romance.

Perfect for those who want to relive youthful love—or for anyone currently tangled up in it.

world standardWa-Suta

Wa-Suta (WASUTA) “World Standard”

Wasshoi’s new song carries a message of embracing diverse values while cherishing your true self.

In a rapidly changing world, it conveys a stance of redefining what “standard” means and pursuing their own identity.

Scheduled for release in February 2025, the track celebrates the 10th anniversary of their debut.

The music video leaves a strong impression with the members dancing on sets inspired by locations around the world.

It’s a recommended song for anyone who wants to keep moving forward without fearing change.

Stardust EscapeManaka Inaba

Manaka Inaba “Stardust Escape” Promotion Edit

This is a wonderful track that blends an exhilarating sound reminiscent of ’80s synthwave with Manaka Inaba’s captivating vocals.

Set against the backdrop of a nighttime drive date, it portrays the couple’s relationship and budding feelings in a way that resonates deeply with listeners.

Featured on Inaba’s second single, “Hoshikuzu no Escape / Owaranai Insomnia,” the song is filled with an irresistibly singable melody and Inaba’s charm.

It’s perfect for listening during a drive or on the way home from a date—sure to become a cherished memory.