Recommended for women in their 40s! Easy-to-sing songs for karaoke

Green Que Sera SeraMidori Oka

Midori Oka “Midori no Que Sera Sera” MV <Full Ver.>

It’s a fun, upbeat Reiwa-era rhythm kayō masterpiece that makes any Japanese person want to clap along and start dancing! “Midori no Que Sera Sera” is a song released by Midori Oka in 2021, and as the title suggests, you can sing it comfortably with a carefree “que sera sera—whatever will be, will be” feeling.

The instantly catchy chorus sticks after one listen, and if everyone in your karaoke group sings it together, it’ll definitely liven up the room.

The signature enka vocal flourishes—like heavy kobushi and wide vibrato—are kept modest, and the more natural delivery makes it approachable even for those who feel unsure about singing traditional enka.

First and foremost, have fun and sing along to the cheerful rhythm!

Melody for TomorrowMidori Oka

"Melody for Tomorrow" MV full ver

Tomorrow’s Melody is a pop ballad that steps beyond the realm of enka and kayōkyoku.

Released in 2021, it became a landmark song that opened a new chapter for Midori Oka.

Composed by Minoru Komorita (credited as “Komorita Minoru”), who has crafted many classics including SMAP’s major hits like Dynamite and Lion Heart, its poignant yet powerful melody will feel familiar to those who often sing J-pop at karaoke.

Among Oka’s songs, this one has a relatively narrow vocal range and doesn’t feature drastic melodic leaps, so once you learn the tune, it should be easy to sing.

After that, try to focus on expressing the emotional nuances—just like Oka does!

Toridori Yumemidori feat. DJ KOOMidori Oka

Midori Oka “Toridori Yumemidori feat. DJ KOO” Music Video

The lead track Toridori Yumemidori from Midori Oka’s 20th anniversary album JOURNEY is a unique song—an upbeat, festival-style kayō techno number featuring none other than DJ KOO.

It’s interesting how the up-tempo dance beat meshes surprisingly well with the abundant traditional Japanese flavors like shamisen and shinobue.

The vocals are quite rapid-fire, but once you memorize the lyrics, it’s the kind of song you can power through by riding the rhythm—perfect for karaoke.

Don’t overthink it; if possible, sing it with a partner playing DJ KOO’s role—you’re sure to have a great time!

Blizzard of Blossoms of a WomanMidori Oka

Blizzard of Blossoms of a Woman

This is a Reiwa-era life-encouragement song by Midori Oka, renowned for her mysterious enka style, showcasing powerful kindness and brightness! “Onna no Hana Fubuki” is the B-side to “Kami no Tsuru,” released in February 2019, and it’s a masterpiece that lifts your spirits when you’re feeling down.

It’s perfect for wrapping up a karaoke session, as well as for farewell parties or New Year’s gatherings.

It’s classic, straight-down-the-middle enka, so those accustomed to the genre should be able to sing it smoothly.

Overall, the pitch is high and the range is wide, so if you’re new to enka, try breaking it into parts—A melody, B melody, and chorus—and focus your practice on the sections you find most challenging.

Crimson Japanese lantern (plant)Midori Oka

Crimson Japanese lantern (plant)

It’s a hidden gem that, while reminiscing about the Hozuki Market held in Asakusa, highlights its intense passion even more by choosing a calm, beautiful delivery instead of putting overt resentment over betrayal front and center.

Although it’s positioned as the coupling track to the single “Namidauta,” released in February 2024, it’s sure to be irresistible for those who love Midori Oka’s mysterious side.

The melody doesn’t demand particularly difficult techniques and is relatively easy to sing, so I encourage you to give it a try at karaoke.

With songs like this, it’s harder to express the simmering, uncontrollable emotions in a restrained way than to showcase technique, so be sure to read the lyrics carefully before you sing!

Let's set off in the shining season.Seiko Matsuda

Let's set off toward a shining season — Seiko Matsuda

Released in 1994 as Seiko Matsuda’s 38th single.

The song was used in a commercial for “Takano Yuri Beauty Clinic,” and with this track she made her first appearance in six years at the 45th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 1994.

It became a topic of conversation that she performed the full version, including the instrumental break, without any cuts.

It’s a bright, upbeat, and easy-to-sing song.

SOLITUDEAkina Nakamori

SOLITUDE (2012 Remastered)

“SOLITUDE” is a track that blends urban sophistication with elegance, and its lyrics depicting a city woman drew a lot of attention.

It makes perfect sense when you hear that the lyrics were written by Reiko Yukawa and the music composed by Godiego’s Yukihide Takakawa.

The way each word is delicately woven together by Akina’s powerful vocals is breathtaking.

The lyrics evoke scenes from the upper floors of an empty high-rise, resonating perfectly when you feel like escaping somewhere alone.

The song has many relatively easy-to-sing parts.

It’s a karaoke staple, yet could also be called a hidden gem.

I recommend humming it at least once.