[Women in Their 40s] Even If You’re Tone-Deaf, You Can Sing! Karaoke Songs That Fit a Woman’s Vocal Range

DiamondsPRINCESS PRINCESS

Princess Princess 'Diamonds <Diamond>'

This is the seventh single by Princess Princess, a band that became an iconic presence in the J-POP scene of the 1980s and 1990s and influenced countless other groups.

Known as one of the band’s signature songs—with another signature track, “M,” included as the B-side—it’s easy to see why this became their biggest hit, achieving million-selling status.

Its upbeat rhythm and catchy melody make it a joy to sing, and women in their 40s—the generation that grew up with it—will likely have a great time singing it with friends.

Although the tempo is fast, the melody is simple, so if you stay calm and focus on not drifting off the beat, you’ll be able to sing it well.

Love StoryNamie Amuro

[Love Story] (stage-MIX 2011–2018) | Namie Amuro | chd

The diva of the Heisei era! This is Namie Amuro’s 38th single under her solo name, released in December 2011.

As of 2019, for women in their 40s, Amuro-chan was truly in real time—almost a symbol of their generation, wasn’t she? Many of you were probably Amurers back in the day, too.

Now, this song is a ballad by Amuro-chan, and it might seem a bit challenging for those who aren’t confident singers.

Still, there are surely many who secretly want to try singing it.

Indeed, when you listen to her performance, you can feel a touch of influence from Black music, and there are some vocal phrases that require advanced technique.

But try picking out the melody—using a piano app on your smartphone or anything else—and when you come across parts you find “difficult,” simplify or omit them and give it a try.

I'm glad I met you.Kyoko Koizumi

Kyoko Koizumi – I'm Glad I Met You (Official Video)

Kyoko Koizumi’s classic song “I’m Glad I Met You.” Although Kyoko Koizumi has solid vocal ability, she actually has a narrow vocal range, and most of her songs don’t feature long high notes.

Among her tracks, this one is especially recommended.

The key changes in the chorus, but just as the energy rises, the melody drops in pitch, making it a comfortable vocal line for women with lower voices or those who struggle with high notes.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

This is my way of life.PUFFY

PUFFY 'That's the Way I Live' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

PUFFY is a charismatic duo whose unique visuals, fashion sense, and musicality earned high praise from many women across all aspects.

Their music is distinctive, and even now there really aren’t any duos or groups that follow in their footsteps.

Among PUFFY’s works, the one I especially recommend is “Kore ga Watashi no Ikiru Michi” (“This Is the Way I Live”).

It doesn’t require a high vocal part, and even without vibrato it still sounds convincing, making it a very beginner-friendly song.

StoryAI

AI – Story

A signature work by AI released in May 2005, known for its gentle, comforting melody and striking lyrics that portray life’s precious moments.

It’s a warm song that honestly expresses gratitude to a loved one and the joy of walking together.

The simple melodic line and heartfelt lyrics create a calm atmosphere, making it a tune you’ll want to hum along to with someone special.

It’s also perfect for karaoke—singing it together naturally brings out smiles from everyone.

To the futureKiroro

To the Future – Kiroro (Full)

Released in June 1998 as Kiroro’s second single.

Since it became a staple song for graduation ceremonies, many people probably picture those scenes when they hear it.

The track came out toward the end of the 1990s, a period often called the J-pop bubble when million-sellers were coming out one after another.

While other artists were making their melodies and chord progressions increasingly complex to break new ground, Kiroro arrived with a simplicity in melody, chords, and arrangement that felt almost like an antithesis to that trend—and it was wonderfully refreshing.

Built on an extremely familiar, easy-to-hum melody, this song is highly recommended even for those who aren’t confident singers.

Longing, poignancy, and strength of heartRyoko Shinohara with Tetsuya Komuro

Ryoko Shinohara with Tetsuya Komuro 'Longing, Heartache, and Strength' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Ryoko Shinohara’s classic hit “Itoshisa to Setsunasa to Kokorozuyosa to.” Since Tetsuya Komuro composed it, you can hear that signature Komuro sound throughout the track.

It was also the theme song for the legendary game Street Fighter, so it probably left a strong impression, didn’t it? While the song is characterized by its soaring vocals, the range itself isn’t very wide—roughly mid2B to hiD—so it’s surprisingly easy to sing.

There’s no use of falsetto, and the melody is fairly simple, so as long as you set the key right, you should be able to sing it without any trouble.