Songs everyone knows across generations. A roundup of karaoke tracks anyone can sing, regardless of age.
When you’re at a karaoke session with a wide range of ages, it can be hard to pick the right songs.
If you’re a working adult, you might go with colleagues or clients; if you’re a student, there may be occasions where teachers join in.
There are also more chances than you’d expect to choose songs for a broad age group, such as at karaoke contests.
In those situations, it’s tough to pick songs that every generation will recognize.
In recent years, Japanese music has been broadening—Showa-era kayōkyoku has become popular among younger generations, and some songs have achieved mega-hits through social media, gaining cross-generational recognition.
We’ll also highlight picks from angles like major event tie-ins, morning drama themes, and songs that are easy to hum along to.
We’ve gathered everything from Reiwa-era national hit songs to classic gems from the Showa and Heisei eras, so please use this as a reference.
Songs everyone knows across generations: A collection of karaoke tracks anyone can sing regardless of age (1–10)
ultra soulB’z
This is a song that’s become a karaoke staple across Japan.
Released in March 2001, it was also selected as the official theme song for the 2001 FINA World Championships in Fukuoka.
It features B’z’s signature powerful rock sound and lyrics that inspire courage and hope.
The content, which conveys a strong will to face hardships and challenges, carries a message that resonates with people of all generations.
It’s also known as a live staple and is performed at almost every B’z concert.
It’s the perfect track for getting the crowd going at karaoke or for pumping yourself up.
It’s a song that gives everyone energy when you sing it together, so definitely give it a try!
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
Yuzu’s “Eikou no Kakehashi” is a beloved classic across generations, and it’s a song nearly everyone has sung at karaoke at least once.
Backed by Yujin Kitagawa’s powerful vocals, it was chosen as the official theme song for NHK’s coverage of the Athens Olympics, delivering courage and energy to many.
Even as years pass, it never loses its luster, serving as a bridge that connects longtime and new fans.
Its lyrics, filled with a bright and positive message, resonate across generations, making it easy to enjoy in any setting without feeling out of place.
Just as it encouraged athletes in Athens, it lightens our hearts as well—a truly national favorite.
Until the world endsWANDS
This song by WANDS beautifully portrays parting from a loved one and a profound sense of loneliness.
The feelings of solitude amid the bustle of the city and the aching wish for eternal love resonate deeply.
Released in June 1994, it became a major hit as the second ending theme for the anime SLAM DUNK.
Its melodious rock sound and moving lyrics have captured the hearts of listeners across generations.
It’s a safe pick for gatherings with friends or business partners, as it’s a karaoke-friendly song that people of all ages can sing.
Give it a try—it’s easy to sing.
MarigoldAimyon
Aimyong’s “Marigold” is also a perfect song that people of all ages can enjoy together at karaoke.
While it has a retro vibe, its timeless melody and lyrics are beloved across generations.
It’s one of Aimyong’s signature songs and is widely known even among older listeners.
In 2023, it surpassed 600 million streams.
The fact that it gained such popularity without any tie-in is proof of how well-loved it is.
Plus, its moderate tempo and easy-to-sing melody make it approachable even for those who aren’t confident in their singing.
In karaoke settings where people from various backgrounds gather, if you’re looking for a song that bridges generations, this is unquestionably a highly recommended classic.
countrysideNEW!Koji Tamaki
The 11th single by Koji Tamaki, released in July 1996.
It was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Coach,” peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon charts, and sold about 920,000 copies.
The song’s appeal lies in its warm message to people who are struggling yet striving to live, and its catchy melody that makes you want to hum along.
The vocal range is relatively narrow, so it should be singable regardless of voice type.
Although there are some slightly fast-paced parts, once you get into the rhythm, it should come naturally to sing!
MiracleGReeeeN
A timeless classic loved across generations.
GReeeeN’s warm lyrics and soothing melody resonate with many listeners.
Released in May 2008, it drew major attention as the theme song for the TBS drama “ROOKIES.” Centered on the themes of “eternal love” and “gratitude,” the song beautifully traces the days a couple has built together.
It conveys the small joys found in everyday life and the happiness of walking through life side by side, striking a chord with a wide audience.
Beloved by people of all ages, it’s also a staple pick for karaoke.
It’s the perfect song for special moments with someone important, such as weddings and anniversaries.
dogwood (flowering dogwood)Yo Hitoto
Singer Yo Hitoto drew attention when her debut song ‘Morainaki’ suddenly became a hot topic.
Did you know that her fifth single ‘Hanamizuki,’ which has been tied in with numerous media projects, is an anti-war song inspired by the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States? Thanks to its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.
As data shows it was the most-sung song at karaoke during the Heisei era, it’s a gem of a ballad that you can sing with people of any generation.