Famous songs we’d like women in their 40s to sing, by age group

A Cruel Angel's ThesisYoko Takahashi

Yoko Takahashi "A Cruel Angel's Thesis"

This is the 11th single by singer Yoko Takahashi, who built experience in choirs and bands and even worked as a backup vocalist for major artists before her major debut.

Although it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, which became a social phenomenon, it’s a famous song recognized even by listeners unfamiliar with the anime.

Its catchy phrases and powerful melody make it a hit at karaoke, appealing as cool even from a male perspective.

While it’s a challenging song, it’s a karaoke classic that women in their 40s—the generation it belongs to—are especially encouraged to sing.

A Bouquet of Kisses in the RainMiki Imai

Miki Imai - A Bouquet of Kisses in the Rain

Miki Imai’s famous song “A Bouquet of Kisses in the Rain.” The composition is by singer-songwriter KAN, and it features a soft, unornamented melody.

Because it’s sung by Miki Imai, many people may feel it’s high, but in reality the vocal range isn’t that wide, and there are no sudden high passages.

As long as you sing it in your proper key, you should be able to handle every part without any trouble.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

I BELIEVETomomi Kahala

Tomomi Kahala – I BELIEVE (Audio)

A classic that colored the golden age of J-POP in the 1990s and remains beloved by many karaoke fans, this is one of Tomomi Kahala’s signature songs.

Released in October 1995 as her second single, it became a million seller and earned her numerous newcomer awards.

The dramatic sound crafted by Tetsuya Komuro harmonizes beautifully with the crisp winter air, and her soaring vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

Familiar as the CM song for Minami “JOY OF SPORTS,” it also appears in a different arrangement on the album LOVE BRACE.

If you forget the everyday and sing your heart out with the sparkle of those days in mind, you’re sure to feel refreshed!

A gentle feelingChara

Chara “Yasashii Kimochi” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Chara, a female singer-songwriter who gained popularity for her distinctive musicality.

Many women in their 40s might have been fans of hers, right? Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is Yasashii Kimochi.

It’s a track that balances both a gothic feel and cuteness.

The vocal range is on the higher side at mid2 A# to hi D#, but the overall span is relatively narrow.

Using breath-based techniques such as hiccups can instantly elevate the quality, so try singing while referencing her breathing style.

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 song “Itoshisa to Setsunasa to Kokorozuyosa to.” Since it was composed by Tetsuya Komuro, you can feel that distinctive Komuro sound throughout the track.

For men in their 40s, it likely stands out as the theme song for the legendary game Street Fighter.

The song features expansive, soaring vocals, but the overall range—mid2B to hiD—isn’t particularly wide, 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 appropriately, you should be able to sing it without issue.

Things that have formKo Shibasaki

Ko Shibasaki – Something That Has Form

Ko Shibasaki captivates people not only as an actress but also as a singer with her expressive performances.

Her sixth single, released in August 2004, is a moving ballad that strikes a deep emotional chord.

Even when something precious is lost, the warm feelings that remain in the heart and the value of invisible bonds are poignantly woven together by Shibasaki’s voice, which blends clarity with strength.

The song became etched in many people’s memories as the theme for the drama “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World,” a social phenomenon at the time, and it debuted at No.

2 on the Oricon Singles Chart.

Many listeners surely carry this piece in their hearts along with the drama’s emotion.

As you reminisce about those days and sing along with the bittersweet melody, you’re sure to have a special time.

Love SongGO!GO!7188

GO!GO!7188 [Koi no Uta] with low-quality PV

This is the third single by GO!GO!7188, a three-piece rock band that fused a wide range of musical styles into an alternative sound with melodies evoking a Japanese aesthetic.

They were especially popular among younger listeners, though the band disbanded in 2012.

The song’s simple yet emotional arrangement—beginning with a chorus accompanied only by vocals and guitar—creates a nostalgic atmosphere throughout.

The lyrics, which conjure the image of someone recoiling even as they think of the one they love, may strike men as capturing a woman’s endearing vulnerability.

Though tinged with sadness, its solid rock sound is satisfying, making it a recommended rock ballad for women in their forties.