Songs popular among men in their 40s. Timeless classics that bring back memories.
As a man in your 40s, what kind of music do you usually listen to?
Of course, you probably hear a lot of the latest hits, but chances are you still love the songs that were with you during your youth.
In fact, when it comes to songs popular among men in their 40s today, many of them are tracks that made waves around the 1990s.
In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of Japanese songs—focusing on hits from that era—that are especially recommended for men in their 40s.
They’re full of classics perfect for karaoke or for listening to in the car, so definitely give them a listen.
They might just bring back memories from those days.
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- [Nostalgic Hits] Japanese dance music that resonates with people in their 40s.
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- Popular Japanese songs among women in their 40s: recommended classics and standard hits
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- Songs that men in their 20s should sing [Popular & Classic Hits]
- Famous songs we’d like women in their 40s to sing, by age group
Popular songs among men in their 40s. Timeless classics that bring back memories (91–100)
lipsGLAY
An erotic number that captures both aching infatuation and passionate love.
Swept up by irresistible desire, the protagonist’s heart grows increasingly unsettled by feelings for their partner—expressed powerfully against GLAY’s signature, high-velocity sound.
The striking guitar riff and melody sung in a higher key further accentuate the emotions swirling within.
Released in May 1997, the song was used as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “HEY! HEY! HEY! MUSIC CHAMP” from April to June of the same year, and became a major hit as the band’s first Oricon No.
1.
It’s the perfect track for cranking up the energy with friends at karaoke or letting your feelings out.
TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS
A rock tune that stays close to each listener and keeps delivering a powerful message.
With its straightforward spirit and energetic performance, this is a signature work by THE BLUE HEARTS that truly breaks through.
Hidden within are hints for finding your own way of life—guidance for the road of life.
After its release in November 1988, it ranked for five consecutive weeks on a TBS music program, and starting in January 1989 it was also chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “High School Graffiti.” This track has become a staple at sporting events as well, used as a cheer song in high school baseball and as walk-up music by many professional baseball players.
It’s recommended for times when you’re feeling down, ready to take a new step forward, or standing at a crossroads in life.
It’s a song that’s sure to give you courage and hope.
Songs popular among men in their 40s. Timeless classics that bring back memories (101–110)
The rattlesnake is comingTunnels
With its cheerful, upbeat sound, this opening theme for the Fuji TV variety show “Tunnels’ Thanks to Everyone” captured the hearts of viewers.
Released by Tunnels in January 1992, the song brilliantly fuses Yasushi Akimoto’s clever wordplay with Tsugutoshi Goto’s lively melody.
At first glance it seems like a simple, fun story, but its lyrics are appealingly dual-layered, allowing for deeper, more adult interpretations.
Reaching No.
1 on the Oricon charts for the first time and selling 1.
409 million copies, the song has been loved across borders, with covers in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
It’s the perfect track to liven up parties and gatherings, delivering a joyful moment that gets your body moving.
Banzai ~ So glad I loved you ~Ulfuls
This rock tune celebrating the joy of pure love is a fan favorite that showcases Ulfuls’ musicality to the fullest.
Its lyrics, which candidly express gratitude to a loved one, resonate deeply, and together with its bright, catchy melody, the song lifts listeners’ spirits.
Released in February 1996, it was included on the album “Banzai” and also drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Goddess of Victory.” Moreover, it won the Excellence Award at the 38th Japan Record Awards.
It’s a perfect track for getting pumped up at karaoke with friends or for reminiscing about special memories with someone important.
Like tonight's moonElephant Kashimashi
It’s a deeply moving masterpiece that powerfully sings of passion for the future while gazing into everyday feelings of emptiness and loneliness.
Set against the backdrop of a city at dusk, it portrays the solitude and struggles of people living in an urban landscape, yet conveys a strong will to keep looking forward and moving on.
The soulful vocals unique to Elephant Kashimashi and the melody that resonates with the heart are beautifully in harmony.
Released in July 1997, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Because the Moon Shines at Night,” and was also included on the album “Run Toward Tomorrow – Moonlit Songs.” In 2017, it was performed in the band’s first appearance on the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, winning over even more listeners.
It’s a track that will evoke deep empathy when you feel lost in life or spend a night thinking of someone dear.
ForeverThe Gospellers
This celebrated song, which sings of an eternal bond with a loved one, gently conveys the unbreakable feelings that exist precisely because love is formless.
Transcending physical distance, the unwavering longing for the other person resonates in the heart alongside beautiful harmonies.
Released in August 2000, the track stayed on the Oricon chart for an impressive 44 weeks and was selected as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s JAPAN COUNTDOWN.
Its diverse arrangements—hallmarks of The Gospellers—are part of its appeal, including the Album Version on the album “Soul Serenade” and the “unplugged live version” included on the single “Hitori.” It remains a beloved song that makes you want to sing while thinking of someone special, especially after time spent talking with friends.
A Tearful RequestThe Checkers
This song is a masterpiece that poignantly captures a man’s heartbreak and lingering feelings as he sends a request to a late-night radio show, expressing both sorrow and sincerity with remarkable nuance.
While influenced by American oldies, its pop sound beautifully blends that style with the charm of Japanese kayōkyoku, creating a resonance that speaks to the heart.
Released in January 1984, it became one of The Checkers’ signature hits, achieving great success and placing fourth on Oricon’s year-end chart.
Featured in the morning dramas Futari Ko and Amachan, the song portrays a young person trying to soothe the pain of a broken heart through a cherished tune, remaining beloved as a piece that stays with listeners alongside nostalgic memories.
It’s a recommended track for when you want to look back on a past romance or deepen your feelings for someone special.