[2025] Recommended Japanese songs for karaoke for men in their 50s

ultramarineShinji Tanimura

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It can rightly be called a quintessential masterpiece that resonates across generations.

The tragedy of war and the wish for peace, sung over a gently flowing melody, move the hearts of listeners.

Released in July 1981, this song drew great attention as the theme for the film “Rengō Kantai” (Combined Fleet).

Shinji Tanimura’s distinctive vocals and profound lyrics struck a chord with many and continue to exude an unfading charm.

For men in their fifties, it may be a song that revives memories of their youth.

If sung at reunions or family gatherings—occasions that can be shared across generations—it will surely create moments that linger in the heart.

In the Middle of a DreamTakao Kisugi

Yumeno Tochu

This nostalgic, melodic song is a deeply moving piece themed around parting and reunion.

Included on the 1981 album “Yume no Tochū,” it became a massive hit in 1982 as a collaborative release with Hiroko Yakushimaru.

Kisugi’s gentle vocals and the piano-centered, soothing soundscape create a world that resonates with adult men.

The lyrics, which beautifully depict moments of farewell and memories of bygone love, are sure to strike a chord with those who have gathered life experience.

Sing it at adult gatherings—such as company parties or class reunions—and it will surely touch the hearts of those around you.

Performed with a calm, heartfelt tone, it’s a song that will further highlight your charm.

If I Could Play the PianoToshiyuki Nishida

If I Could Play the Piano

This song is a classic that almost everyone has heard at least once.

Released in 1981, it is widely known as one of Toshiyuki Nishida’s signature pieces.

Born as an insert song for the drama “Ikeshita Genta 80 Kilos,” it was later performed on shows such as “The Top Ten” and the “NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.” Through the bittersweet wish of being able to play the piano, it delicately portrays the feelings of a clumsy man who cannot express his love.

The warm vocals and touching lyrics have resonated with many people and continue to be cherished across generations.

If you sing it at karaoke, you’re sure to win applause from your peers.

For men in their fifties with rich life experience, the essence of this song will likely resonate even more deeply.

Sad Feelings (JUST A MAN IN LOVE)Keisuke Kuwata

Keisuke Kuwata – Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love) (Full ver.)

A song that portrays the bittersweet feelings of a heartbroken man was released in 1987 as Mr.

Kuwata’s solo debut.

Included on the album “Keisuke Kuwata,” it reached No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart, sold 650,000 copies, and won the Excellent Album Award at the 30th Japan Record Awards.

Although it’s an upbeat pop tune, the lyrics delicately express the sorrow of a breakup, leaving a strong impression.

Seasonal imagery—like the end of summer and the night breeze—further highlights the loneliness of parting.

For men in their 50s, it’s a song that overlaps with memories of their youth, and singing it at karaoke is sure to resonate with people of the same generation.

I wonder what kind of face that girl would make if I sank a long shot.Yasuyuki Okamura

I wonder what kind of face that girl would make if I sank a long shot.

The song that paints a bittersweet coming-of-age scene is Yasuyuki Okamura’s 13th single, released in October 1990.

Peaking at No.

20 on the Oricon chart, it features a groovy sound that fuses funk and pop in true Okamura style.

The lyrics capture the tension of competition and the passion of youth, distilling a universally relatable moment of adolescence.

In 2011, it was used in the film Moteki, drawing renewed attention.

It’s a great choice for karaoke if you want to sing with a sense of nostalgia for your school days.

Perform it at reunions or office parties—settings that people of all generations can enjoy—and it’s sure to be a hit.

GLORIAZIGGY

ZIGGY「GLORIA」

A song released in 1988 has been loved by many as one of ZIGGY’s signature tracks.

Written and composed by Juichi Morishige, it was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Dou-kyu-sei” and became a major hit.

It sold about 329,000 copies and reached No.

3 on the Oricon charts, becoming a timeless classic that continues to be sung.

While its style is more akin to a kayōkyoku ballad than a typical rock band sound, the lyrics carry a message of moving forward without losing hope, resonating across generations.

If you sing it at company parties or class reunions—any occasion where you want everyone to get excited—it’s sure to bring the whole room together.

It always starts with rain.ASKA

ASKA – The Beginning Is Always Rain (Official Music Video)

It’s a classic song that weaves a bittersweet love story with rain as its motif.

Through the image of lovers meeting in the rain, the lyrics express the complexity and depth of love.

ASKA’s delicate vocals beautifully capture the aching emotions of the two, drenched in the rain.

Released in March 1991, the track was used in a Panasonic commercial and as a movie theme song, and it became a massive hit, achieving million-seller status six months later.

When singing it at karaoke, it’s recommended to keep ASKA’s distinctive phrasing in mind and picture the two lovers in the rain as you sing.

It’s the perfect song for looking back on a memorable romance or creating a mellow, reflective mood.