Karaoke that's popular right now: Recent songs you should know [2026]

What I choseNEW!Yuika

What I Chose / “Yuika” [Music Video]

Released in December 2025, this work was written specifically for a nationwide Zepp tour and was previewed live before its official release.

The lyrics, which strikingly explore the idea that if everything were a fate we chose for ourselves, perhaps life would feel a little easier, leave a strong impression.

Centered around acoustic guitar, the warm sound seems to deliver the words directly and conveys Yuika’s resolve to have chosen singing as her weapon.

If you’re feeling uncertain about life’s choices, give it a listen.

by all means; no matter what; at any costNEW!back number

back number – No Matter What, No Matter What [Official Audio]

Selected as the theme song for NHK’s winter sports coverage, this work is striking for its band sound that blends intensity with warmth and for Iyori Shimizu’s straightforward vocals.

The lyrics, which depict an inner flame that refuses to be extinguished, resonate deeply not only with athletes taking on their events, but with everyone who strives to meet challenges in daily life.

It’s a powerful track that melts the winter chill and gives you a push when you feel like giving up.

idolYOASOBI

YOASOBI "Idol" Official Music Video

An energetic pop tune by YOASOBI, a duo that turns novels into music.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Oshi no Ko, it became the first Japanese song to reach No.

1 on Billboard Global Excl.

U.S.

The lyrics, which portray the protagonist’s inner struggle as they pile up self-sacrifice and pretense behind an idol’s life, leave a strong impression.

While rooted in hip-hop elements, it’s produced as a pop track with a gothic rock flair, characterized by a choral atmosphere reminiscent of a church choir.

Released in June 2023, the song became a massive hit at lightning speed and ranks high on karaoke charts.

With its exhilarating melody and singable lines, it’s perfect for livening up parties and reunions.

ikigai (a reason for living; the thing that gives one’s life meaning and purpose)NEW!SUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER "Ikigai" Lyric Video (Fuji TV 2026 Athlete Support Song)

SUPER BEAVER is a four-piece rock band that inspires listeners with piercing lyrics and a fiery rock sound.

Released digitally in December 2025, this work was written as Fuji TV’s 2026 Athlete Support Song.

It’s an anthem not only for athletes taking on their competitions, but also for the people who support them and for everyone who strives toward their goals day by day.

The lyrics by Ryota Yanagisawa affirm not just the results, but the very journey that leads there.

Let this song give you strength.

Sailor, Sail OnNEW!Atarashii Gakko no Leaders

ATARASHII GAKKO! – Sailor, Sail On (Official Music Video)

The dance-vocal unit Atarashii Gakko!, who have been thrilling the world with their sailor uniforms and original performances.

Released in December 2025, this work was created as the theme song for the film “Labyrinth Bookmark.” It also drew attention for having SUZUKA, the group’s main vocalist, voice the protagonist.

Its sound—fusing sweeping strings with a dance beat—brings a soaring feeling, as if setting out across the open sea.

With a dramatic progression that links to the film’s worldview and sets the heart ablaze, it’s a track you’ll want to play at the start of a new chapter.

Immortal YouNEW!Perfume

Fumetsu no anata

This track was created as the opening theme for the NHK-broadcast anime To Your Eternity Season 3.

Released digitally in December 2025, it’s quintessentially Perfume—sleek, sophisticated synth-pop—yet it carries a quiet, prayer-like stillness.

The sound resonates deeply, mirroring the anime’s themes of the loneliness and poignancy of an eternal life.

Each word feels crafted to linger in your heart, and with every listen, your emotions seem to come into sharper focus.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to face your own inner self.

ChessboardOfficial HIGE DANDism

Official HIGE DANDism – Chessboard [Official Video]

“Chessboard” reached one million views on the video site in just one week after its release.

As expected from Official HIGE DANDism, it’s a song packed with heartfelt feelings about youth.

Chosen as the set piece for the junior high school division of the 90th NHK National School Music Competition, it seems likely to be sung for a long time to come.

The lyrics—“On a chessboard, the footing is fixed in black and white, but we want to choose our own path”—make it a quintessential Hige Dan-style youth anthem.

Of course, it’s also a great pick for those who aren’t in their youth anymore!