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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- [40s] Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers Ranking [2025]
- Karaoke songs in Japanese that are easy for men in their 40s to sing
- [For People in Their 40s] Ranking of Easy-to-Sing Karaoke Songs [2025]
- [Nostalgic Hits] Japanese dance music that resonates with people in their 40s.
- [For Men in Their 40s] A Collection of Songs That Score High at Karaoke [2025]
- Popular Japanese songs among women in their 40s: recommended classics and standard hits
- Funny songs recommended for men in their 40s
- Nostalgic Japanese Pop Hits That Get 40-Something Men and Women Excited
- 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
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.
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.
Beard and BoobsUnicorn
One of Unicorn’s signature works, this song humorously portrays the wavering emotions caught between a salaryman’s job and his love life.
Tamio Okuda’s lyrical world shines as he deftly weaves in modern workplace relationships, from a young company president to the woman at the neighboring desk.
Released in October 1991, the track features an arrangement inspired by the grand sound of Electric Light Orchestra, with a striking use of synthesizers.
As the closing song on the album “Hige to Boin,” it brilliantly conveys the complex feelings of a man who can’t give up on love even while being overwhelmed by work.
It’s a perfect pick for livening up after-work karaoke with colleagues.
Songs popular among men in their 40s: timeless classics that bring back memories (111–120)
I'm only gazing at you.Maki Ohguro
This song poignantly portrays a woman’s bittersweet feelings as she changes herself for love.
Her determination and inner conflict to be reborn for her lover are depicted in contrast to the upbeat melody.
Maki Ohguro’s powerful vocals vividly express the protagonist’s pain and wavering emotions.
Released in December 1993, it was chosen as the ending theme for the anime SLAM DUNK.
Within about three months of its release, it became a million seller and has been included on multiple albums, such as “Toward the Eternal Dream” and “BACK BEATs #1.” It’s a song I especially recommend to those who can relate to the struggle between staying true to oneself and being in love.
Its heartrending melody and down-to-earth lyrics gently embrace the complex emotions of romance.
I won't fall in love anymore.Noriyuki Makihara
A signature song by Noriyuki Makihara, distinguished by its heartwarming melody that embraces both the ache of heartbreak and a brave front.
It gently portrays memories of a former lover and the nostalgia of everyday life, while the protagonist’s resolve to move forward resonates deeply with listeners.
Released in May 1992, it was chosen as the theme song for the NTV drama “After the Children Are Asleep.” Included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” it became a major hit, ranking 7th on Oricon’s year-end chart.
This piece is a companion for those standing at life’s crossroads.
When you gather with friends for karaoke, its universally relatable lyrics and melody are sure to warm the heart.