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

CheersTsuyoshi Nagabuchi

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi – Kanpai [With Lyrics]

This is a renowned song that has continued to resonate with many as an anthem celebrating life’s new beginnings.

Originally released in September 1980 on the album “Kampai,” it vividly depicts a celebratory scene lit by candlelight and carries a warm message of encouragement for a friend taking their first step forward.

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s powerful vocals deliver hope and courage for the future.

In 1988, it was re-recorded and released as a single, becoming a major hit that reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

In the early 1990s, it was also featured in commercials for Kirin Lager Beer, further boosting its recognition.

To this day, it remains a timeless song passed down through the years, often chosen to convey heartfelt feelings to loved ones at important milestones in life, such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.

First loveKozo Murashita

Kozo Murashita “Hatsukoi” Music Video

This song was released in February 1983 as Kozo Murashita’s fifth single.

Selling 526,000 copies, it became his biggest hit and ranked sixth on Oricon’s year-end chart.

Included on the album “Hatsukoi ~ Asaki Yume Mishi” and covered by Hiroko Mita, the track was also used in a Kao Tonic Shampoo commercial.

His gentle vocals, which tenderly convey the bittersweetness and nostalgia of first love, resonate with many listeners.

It’s a perfect song for reflecting on memories with someone special or for quietly facing yourself.

FlowerFujii Kaze

Fujii Kaze – Hana (Official Video)

This song, overflowing with kindness, warms the heart like spring sunshine.

The gentle soundscape created by piano and a simple band arrangement intertwines with Fujii Kaze’s soft vocals, richly coloring the listener’s emotions.

Released in October 2023, the track has been cherished by many as the theme song for the drama “My Most Favorite Flower.” Through the symbol of a flower, it beautifully expresses life’s joys, hardships, and transience.

When singing it at karaoke, there are some challenging falsetto parts, so adjusting the key is recommended.

It’s a perfect song for spending peaceful moments with someone special.

WON’T BE LONGBubblegum Brothers

Bubblegum Brothers “WON’T BE LONG” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A track marked by an irresistibly catchy, upbeat groove and a festival-like, uplifting rhythm.

Inspired by the Awa Odori dance, its forward-looking message—filled with a powerful resolve to give your all for someone—really strikes a chord.

It features the Bubblegum Brothers’ signature breezy sound and approachable lyrics.

Released in August 1990, it initially drew little attention, but after being broadcast on a TV program in March 1991, it exploded in popularity and became a million-seller.

In 2006, it was also covered by EXILE and Kumi Koda.

It’s an encouraging anthem that gives energy and courage—especially recommended for those worn out by work or daily life.

It’s also perfect for livening up a karaoke session with friends.

Rainy BlueHidemasa Tokunaga

Hideaki Tokunaga – Rainy Blue ~1997 Track~

Known as a poignant heartbreak ballad, this song was released to the world in January 1986 as Hideaki Tokunaga’s debut single.

While being beaten by the rain, the protagonist reflects on a love that has ended, expressed through delicate lyrics and melody.

The sorrow and loneliness contained in the phrase “Rainy Blue” resonate deeply with listeners.

This work widely showcased Tokunaga’s talent as a vocalist and went on to become a classic, covered by many artists thereafter.

It’s recommended for those who want to sing a tender, emotive song.

Why not express the feelings you keep in your heart through song at karaoke with friends or a partner?

Until the world endsWANDS

Until the World Ends... WANDS (Bloom)

A signature hit by WANDS that dominated the charts in the 1990s.

Also used as the ending theme for the anime SLAM DUNK, this song portrays bittersweet romantic feelings.

Its lyrics are striking for depicting the bond confirmed between lovers even while feeling lonely in a big city.

It skillfully expresses the yearning to believe in eternal love, along with the pain and sense of loss brought by the passage of time.

Released in 1992, it became WANDS’ eighth single.

While WANDS stood at the center of the Being boom, this track in particular gained strong support in China and was sometimes used to close their overseas concerts.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel the bond with someone dear, or when you want to sink into nostalgia.

On the hill where the moon is visible tonightB’z

B'z / At the Hill Where the Moon Is Visible Tonight

This is B’z’s 27th single, which was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Beautiful Life: The Days We Spent Together.” Many men in their 40s want to sing B’z songs, right? Practice a little and try performing it at karaoke.