[Carefully Selected] A Special Feature on Hidden Vocaloid Masterpieces
Musicians who started as Vocaloid producers—like Kenshi Yonezu, Ayase, and Eve—have been doing amazingly well lately, haven’t they? They’re always near the top of the Japanese music charts.
In this article, we’d like to introduce some hidden Vocaloid gems.
It’s perfect for anyone looking for music they haven’t encountered before! We’re using the phrase “hidden gems,” which basically means “songs that deserve much more recognition.” This is a playlist our editorial team confidently recommends!
[Carefully Selected] Hidden Vocaloid Masterpieces (1–10)
Nirai Kanaishero

This is a track that offers a fantastical experience, as if stepping into another world.
It marks Shero’s fresh start for their “second season” and was released in June 2020.
It’s the Vocaloid version of a collaboration with Junnosuke Taguchi.
A danceable mixture rock piece, it unfolds a unique lyrical world themed around marine life.
By the way, “Niraikanai” is a word from Okinawa and Amami that means “utopia.” It’s perfect for those who want to escape reality or are seeking an extraordinary musical experience!
Little Cigarnodio

This is an electronic track wrapped in a nostalgic atmosphere.
Created by Vocaloid producer nodio, it was released in January 2021.
Its stylish sound design—an exquisite fusion of chiptune and lo-fi hip-hop—is striking.
The meticulous attention to sonic texture and spatial depth draws listeners into a unique world.
The lyrics, which subtly convey the pain of parting, are also memorable.
It’s perfect for immersing yourself in music alone on a quiet night.
Sunflowers, voyage, summer’s lost itemsmawari

This song depicts the nostalgia of summer’s end and reflections on the past.
Composed by Vocaloid producer Mawari, it was released in August 2022.
Its poetic worldview is captivating, intertwining natural sounds like waves and wind with the movements of the heart.
The contrast between memories that shine ever brighter and a heart that gradually fades is deeply moving.
A meticulously crafted sonic palette—lively rhythms, refreshing chord progressions, and delicate string arrangements—is another hallmark.
It’s the perfect track for sinking into the melancholy of late summer or reminiscing about days gone by.
Yubikiri Setsunasiglyna

A poignant, heartfelt song that sings of the sorrow of changing everyday life and the beauty of memories.
It’s a track by the music duo siglyna—composer/lyricist Itomizu and mixing engineer eddy—released in April 2022.
It begins with a quiet intro, then layers sound all at once in the chorus to express overflowing emotion.
Hatsune Miku’s earnest vocals convey both the feelings tied to promises of the past and the strength to live in the present.
It’s a work that stays close to those determined to move forward, even as they’re confused by partings and change.
Sainarayoruno

“Sainara” is a track by yoruno, released in January 2021.
v flower’s powerful yet wistful vocals beautifully convey the song’s emotional ebb and flow.
The structure, which builds gradually from a quiet intro, gives the impression of long-buried feelings welling up from the depths of the heart.
The surging bassline is irresistible—an exceptionally stylish piece.
Packed with the sadness of parting, resignation, and loneliness, this song is sure to resonate with many listeners.
found footage■37

An artistic Vocaloid track that pairs heavy bass with IA’s innocent singing voice.
It’s a piece by Shikakuzakana, also known as 37, released in 2022.
It’s one you’ll definitely want to enjoy together with the music video! The sound arrangement, weaving between pop and avant-garde, fits perfectly with the noise-tinged visuals.
The lyrics depict a world that became invisible precisely because we grew up—something that will especially resonate with creators.
Coming across a song like this makes you reflect, “Vocaloid—music itself—is so free,” doesn’t it?
hollowanoinbae

This is a Vocaloid rap layering the voices of Uzuki and Hiyori Shirakane over a laid-back hip-hop beat.
The track by anoinbae was released in 2018.
The theme explores the sense of emptiness and stagnation felt in modern society, portraying unfulfilled emotions and the struggle against an unchanging daily life.
Its chill sound delivers a sophisticated finish that evokes a nighttime cityscape.
It is included on the compilation album “MIKUHOP LP3.”