Recommended Japanese pop songs for karaoke for men in their 40s

A Tearful RequestThe Checkers

Request of Tears - The Checkers - 1984

If you’re in your 40s, some of you might have listened to The Checkers in real time.

It might be a slightly older generation, but many people know them! I’m sure there were plenty of boys who admired The Checkers when they were kids, so now that you’re adults, why not make that dream come true at karaoke? It’ll definitely get the crowd going!

No more tears are neededMasayuki Suzuki

No more tears – Masayuki Suzuki

Songs that are easy to sing often end up with simple melodies, which can make them feel a bit lacking in allure.

I imagine many men in their 40s want to sing songs that are both easy to sing and have a sensual vibe.

That’s why I recommend “Mou Namida wa Iranai” (No More Tears).

It’s a pop ballad with an R&B flavor, and the melody maintains a seductive feel throughout.

That said, the vocal lines have a lot in common with Japanese kayōkyoku, so there are more singable parts than you might expect.

Men in their 40s with rich, full voices should definitely give it a try.

Endless Road19

19 - 'Endless Road'

A song I’d recommend to men in their early 40s is Hatenonai Michi.

It’s a classic by the folk duo 19, who were hugely active in the 2000s.

Since it was a nationwide hit, many of you may remember it.

While the track is notable for its cutting-style guitar, the vocal line itself is crafted as catchy J-pop.

The chorus does feature falsetto, but the range is easily reachable in chest voice as well, so it’s not difficult as long as you choose an appropriate key.

Give it a try.

That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky19

That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky

People in their 40s might be a bit outside the target generation, but with these lyrics, they’ll surely recall their school days and relate.

As you’d expect from a duo that loves old, classic folk songs, it’s been skillfully arranged in a modern style.

It’s easy to remember and easy to sing!

BELOVEDGLAY

GLAY / BELOVED

GLAY’s “BELOVED,” known as a karaoke classic, resonates with a uniquely emotive melody.

It’s perfect for middle-aged men to express restrained feelings directly and rekindle the passionate memories of their youth.

Skillfully highlighting TERU’s high notes will liven up the atmosphere even more, and taking on that challenge tends to boost favorability with women.

That said, be mindful of the song’s high vocal range; adjusting the key can make it easier to sing.

With lyrics that strike the heart and an energetic appeal, “BELOVED” is beloved across generations.

If you’re unsure what to pick for karaoke, you can’t go wrong with this timeless hit.

HOWEVERGLAY

GLAY / HOWEVER

For those in their 40s, this is the kind of song that someone always sang at karaoke.

Released in 1997 as GLAY’s 12th single, it was a massive hit and a million-seller.

It’s a subdued ballad, but the vocal range is surprisingly narrow, so it lets you leave a mature impression.

In fact, TAKURO is said to have written it with a girlfriend from GLAY’s indie days in mind, so if you sing it while reminiscing about the past, you can capture the mood.

Pay attention to the lyrics that depict a grand love as you sing.

Moonlight FlowerJanne Da Arc

Janne Da Arc – Gekkouka (Moonlight Flower)

Janne Da Arc’s “Gekkouka” is a fitting song for men in their 40s to sing at karaoke.

If you sing it with emotion, it will resonate with listeners.

Its striking blend of strings and rock, along with lyrics that exude a gentle melancholy, highlights a mature charm.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Black Jack, the song is beloved by a wide audience and offers a chance to showcase your vocal ability while stirring up nostalgia.

With its easy-to-sing melody, it’s also recommended for first-timers.