[2025 Edition] Songs That Will Get the Crowd Going—Perfect for Women in Their 40s to Sing at Karaoke

Don't give upZARD

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

ZARD is an indispensable presence in the Japanese music scene of the ’90s, and for many women in their 40s today, their songs undoubtedly evoke the soundtracks of youth.

The late Izumi Sakai’s clear vocals and heartfelt lyrics never lose their luster, and they’re still hugely popular at karaoke.

“Makenaide” is one of ZARD’s most famous songs, a true classic with nationwide acclaim.

While the pitch is slightly on the higher side, it’s generally average overall, and the melody is straightforward without large leaps in range, making it a good candidate for high karaoke scores.

Aim to articulate each word of the lyrics clearly, and sing the chorus with crisp, powerful delivery!

threadMiyuki Nakajima

Thread – Miyuki Nakajima (Full)

Miyuki Nakajima is a singer-songwriter whose influence has spread across Asia, with her songs covered not only by Japanese artists but also by artists from Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Her 35th single Ito, released as a double A-side with Inochi no Betsumei, became a major hit after being selected as the theme song for the TV drama Seija no Koshin (March of the Saints).

Its lyrics, which evoke the essence of life itself, may gain even greater depth when sung by a woman in her 40s.

With its beautiful melody that will captivate listeners even in karaoke, it is a masterpiece that remains in the history of J-pop.

PRIDEMiki Imai

Miki Imai - PRIDE (Live at Cadogan Hall, London, 2016)

Miki Imai is a singer with a background as an actor, voice actor, and narrator, who moved to the United Kingdom in 2012.

Her 12th single “PRIDE,” used as the theme song for the TV drama Doc, is known as her biggest hit.

The lyrics express the feelings of being in love not passively, but with pride—something that likely struck a chord in real time with many in their 40s, the generation of the song’s heyday.

With its relaxed melody that makes it easy to sing, it’s an emotional number that remains popular in karaoke.

A Perfect SkyBONNIE PINK

BONNIE PINK – A Perfect Sky

This refreshing song, reminiscent of a clear summer sky, is delivered with BONNIE PINK’s translucent vocals.

Released on May 10, 2006 as the theme song for Shiseido’s ANESSA commercial, it became a massive hit and marked the highest chart position of her career.

It deftly expresses a strong will to pursue ideals, along with the conflicts of love and life, resonating deeply with listeners.

The catchy chorus is sure to bring the house down at karaoke.

For women in their 40s leading busy lives, why not sing this song to blow off some steam? It’s also perfect for outdoor scenes like summer drives or beach barbecues.

Sign of LovePUFFY

PUFFY “A Sign of Love” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

One of PUFFY’s signature songs, known for their refreshing vocals and upbeat musical style, is this track.

It features heartwarming lyrics and a catchy melody, and has been loved by many listeners since its 1998 release.

The song has been used in commercials and films, and in 2016 it appeared in a Kirin Beer commercial that also featured the two members of PUFFY, generating buzz.

With lyrics by Masamune Kusano of Spitz and arrangement by Tamio Okuda, it’s a piece created with the involvement of heavyweights in the Japanese music scene.

It’s a great pick for those who want to liven up a karaoke session—a timeless classic that can be sung across generations.

Thank youIkimonogakari

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

Since the late 2000s, Ikimonogakari has boasted top-tier sales and popularity in the J-pop scene, enjoying exceptional name recognition across all ages.

Their songs span a wide variety of genres, yet the melodies—anchored by simple, classic chord progressions—are incredibly pleasant and universally appealing.

It’s impressive how they consistently release “good songs” that don’t alienate any listeners.

Released in 2010, “Arigatou” served as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyobo and is one of Ikimonogakari’s signature tracks, highly popular at karaoke.

While the chorus reaches slightly higher notes, it stays within a range manageable in chest voice, and there aren’t any large interval jumps, making it very singable and a strong candidate for a high karaoke score.

loveGen Hoshino

Gen Hoshino – Koi (Official Video)

Thanks to his versatility, singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino is active in a wide range of fields and continues to showcase a one-of-a-kind sense of pop in his music.

His 9th single, “Koi,” was used as the theme song for the TV drama “We Married as a Job,” and became such a sensation that it sparked a social phenomenon.

For male singers, the many high-key melodies make it a challenging song, but for female singers it’s relatively easy to sing, so it’s recommended.

In a large-group karaoke setting, it’s a modern pop tune that’s fun to sing while everyone does the catchy dance together.