[Hit Songs] A Special Feature on Japanese Karaoke Tracks Recommended for Business Entertaining

That's important.Daiji MAN Brothers Band

That's Important (30th Anniversary)

This is the third single by the five-piece band Daiji MAN Brothers Band, which became a massive hit as the theme song for the variety show “Hok-chan no Yamada Katsu Tenai TV.” The song catapulted the band to fame and sold over 1.

6 million copies.

There’s even an anecdote that the 2009 version shortened the song because the final repeated chorus is so long, but if you’re doing karaoke with people in their 40s, that length might actually make it even more exciting.

With its straightforward message and catchy melody, it’s a quintessential 1990s karaoke number that continues to be loved across generations.

Cactus FlowerKazuo Zaitsu

Kazuo Zaitsu: Cactus Flower (theme song of “Under One Roof”)

This is the 14th single by singer-songwriter Kazuo Zaitsu, known as the leader of the British-influenced rock group Tulip and praised for his melodic sense to the point of being called the “Japanese Paul McCartney.” Originally a self-cover of a Tulip song, it became famous as the theme song for the TV drama “Under One Roof.” The moment the arpeggiated acoustic guitar intro begins, anyone in their 40s is likely to feel a sudden surge of excitement.

Since it was originally released by Tulip in 1975, it’s an immortal classic that will delight listeners older than their 40s as well.

Crossing Amagi PassSayuri Ishikawa

Sayuri Ishikawa - Amagi-goe

This is the 45th single by enka singer Sayuri Ishikawa, who was scouted after stepping in for a friend at a “Kids’ Kayo Contest” in her third year of junior high school and initially launched her career as an idol singer.

Created in the midst of the karaoke boom of the 1980s with the concept of “a high-difficulty piece that only Ishikawa can sing,” the song has been tackled by many musicians across generations.

Its striking impact has made it well-known even among listeners unfamiliar with enka, and it has been beloved for many years.

It’s a famous number that, if you sing it at karaoke, will undoubtedly capture the hearts not only of people in their 40s but of even older generations as well.

Summer Days of 1993class

Summer Days of 1993

This is the debut single by the male duo class, formed from a music producer’s concept of creating a duo like Simon & Garfunkel in Japan.

It gained traction through requests on cable radio and other outlets, and despite being their debut single, it became a million-selling hit and a signature song for class.

With its exhilarating arrangement and beautiful harmonies, it’s sure to get a crowd going at karaoke—not just those in their 40s who grew up with it.

Known as a quintessential summer song of the 1990s J-pop scene, it’s a karaoke number that’s especially great for two male singers.

I LOVE YOUYutaka Ozaki

Yutaka Ozaki – I LOVE YOU (Official Music Video)

This is the 11th single by singer-songwriter Yutaka Ozaki, who garnered immense support as a charismatic figure for younger generations and whose untimely death became a social phenomenon.

It has been featured in films, TV dramas, and commercials, and is well known for being covered by numerous artists.

Its piano-focused, lyrical ensemble and wistful lyrics are sure to evoke the youth of those in their 40s, the generation that grew up with it.

It’s a timeless ballad loved across generations—sure to liven up any business-entertainment karaoke session.

Plastic LoveMariya Takeuchi

Mariya Takeuchi – Plastic Love (Official Music Video)

This is the 12th single by singer-songwriter Mariya Takeuchi, known as one of the iconic figures of Japanese city pop, which has been gaining renewed recognition worldwide.

Its urbane lyrics and sophisticated sound exude a quality pop sensibility that still feels fresh today.

Many people have probably heard its catchy melody.

It’s a cool pop tune to nail at karaoke and one that’s likely to resonate with those in their 40s and older.

HOWEVERGLAY

GLAY / HOWEVER

Speaking of GLAY’s songs, they span from energetic numbers to moving ballads, and many are easy to sing at karaoke—so it can be tough to choose.

If you want to share a touching moment across generations at a work karaoke with your boss, their signature ballad released in August 1997 is a great pick.

This majestic, stirring track conveys unwavering devotion to a loved one and a strong determination for the two to overcome any hardship together.

TERU’s emotive vocals further elevate the tender yet warm message.

It topped the Oricon charts, sold over a million copies, and was later used as the ending theme for a TBS drama, so many people are sure to recognize it.

As a timeless love song cherished across generations, it’s sure to create a warm atmosphere.