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

Goodbye ElegyMasaki Suda

Masaki Suda “Sayonara Elegy”

A song in which Masaki Suda’s heartrending vocals seep into your heart.

Released in February 2018 as the theme for the drama “Kiss that Kills,” it captured the hearts of many.

While depicting heartbreak and loneliness, its lyrics still convey a sense of hope, leaving a strong impression.

Suda himself has said it’s a track you’ll want to listen to in the “cold.” Kento Yamazaki makes a cameo appearance in the music video, which has surpassed 100 million views on YouTube.

It’s also popular at karaoke, regularly ranking among the top staples.

It’s great for singing quietly on your own, but if you sing it with others, you’re sure to feel a moment of connection.

A moving masterpiece packed with Suda’s charm.

SaudadePorno Graffitti

Pornograffitti “Saudade” MUSIC VIDEO

Known as one of Porno Graffitti’s signature songs, it carries a Latin flair and a strong sense of nostalgia.

The lyrics, written from a female perspective, poignantly depict a heartbreaking farewell and self-reflection.

Released in September 2000 as their fourth single, it reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart and was featured in Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercial.

After its performance on YouTube’s popular program THE FIRST TAKE, it spread to younger audiences and became a karaoke staple even in the Reiwa era.

It’s a song with a familiar charm that makes everyone want to hum along.

Highly recommended not only for healing the pain of a broken heart, but also as a karaoke anthem to sing together and get the crowd going!

The Story of the Wind and MeNEW!Ado

The Story of the Wind and Me [Ado]

This piece was written as the theme song for the film The Silent Service: The Great Arctic Sea Battle, released in September 2025.

It drew attention as the first song Hiroji Miyamoto has ever provided to a female artist, and for Mafumafu’s role as arranger.

The lyrics move from everyday scenes—like wind brushing your cheek and the sparkle of the city—to the preciousness of human connection, linking seamlessly with the film’s grand narrative.

It’s a beautiful rock ballad that stirs the heart with the contrast between Miyamoto’s characteristically lyrical melody and Ado’s richly expressive vocals.

rosehip teaNEW!Yuika

Rosehip Tea / “Yuika” [Music Video]

Released in September 2025, the song “Rosehip Tea” was written as the opening theme for the TV drama “You’re Special to Me.” It’s a work with a pure, fresh band sound that feels delightful.

The lyrics portray the subtle emotions of a contrary protagonist who pretends to dislike sweet things but finds themselves recognizing their budding feelings—something that may resonate with anyone timid about love.

It’s a sweet-and-tart pop tune that carries those hard-to-express, honest feelings on a breezy melody.

Dried flowersYuri

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

A ballad themed around heartbreak, this song’s poignant lyrics and melody resonate deeply.

Released as a digital single in October 2020, its portrayal of a breakup from a woman’s perspective struck a chord with many.

Set to a gentle, acoustic guitar–driven sound, Yuuri’s husky vocals ring out.

It gained strong support among young people on social media and became a phenomenon, topping Billboard Japan’s 2021 year-end chart.

It’s also beloved as a quintessential karaoke song of the Reiwa era.

Even while carrying the pain of heartbreak, the song looks forward, inviting many listeners to see themselves in its story.

DearBUDDiiS

BUDDiiS「Dear」Official Music Video

BUDDiiS is a dance and vocal group gaining attention for their DIY style, with members themselves involved in production.

“Dear” is a song released on September 16, 2025—the anniversary of the group’s formation—crafted as a gift to express gratitude to their fans.

Its gentle, calm melody is interwoven with the members’ warm vocals and rap.

The sincere lyrics, which convey a promise to stay by your side and keep protecting you no matter what, will likely make many listeners think of someone precious to them.

A heartwarming pop tune that stays close to you.

universal gravitationNEW!Masaharu Fukuyama

Banyuinryoku

Released digitally in September 2025, “Universal Gravitation” was written as the theme song for the Nippon TV information program DayDay.

The song explores the idea that even when we feel lonely amid the bustle of the city, people are drawn to each other by an invisible force.

Its lyrics contrast a heart bewildered by the buildings’ scattered reflections with stars that, though unseen, are undeniably there—gently revealing the warm connections hidden in everyday life.

It’s a supportive anthem that stays by your side during the busy morning rush and lifts you into a positive mood.