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 songs among men in their 40s: Classic tracks that bring back memories (41–50)
The sun is burning.THE YELLOW MONKEY
A 1995 hit by The Yellow Monkey, who achieved a miraculous reunion and are still active as of 2019.
Its upbeat sound and instantly memorable chorus make it perfect for karaoke.
Why not give it a try while imitating Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals and wavy, wriggling moves?
I want to take only you away just like this.DEEN
There are probably people who got hooked on their worldview after listening to this song.
It poignantly and emotionally portrays the wavering heart of a man who struggles to take action.
You can’t talk about DEEN without mentioning this classic.
It was DEEN’s debut single and became their biggest hit.
It’s also well known that Sho Uesugi, the vocalist of WANDS, wrote the lyrics, and WANDS themselves covered it on one of their albums.
It’s very popular among people of that generation at karaoke and the like.
Since it was used as the CM song for NTT DoCoMo’s “Pocket Bell” at the time, many people probably remember it.
SPARKTHE YELLOW MONKEY
This is a rock number by THE YELLOW MONKEY that sings of passionate love.
It paints a worldview where you close your eyes and share a space with the night, and within its sensual expressions lies a pure heart wishing for eternal love.
The energetic guitar riffs and rhythm section leave a strong impression, and Kazuya Yoshii’s distinctive vocals resound over the dynamic sound.
Released in July 1996, the song drew attention as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Handsome Man.” It was also included on the album “SICKS” and reached No.
3 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It’s a perfect song for enjoying karaoke with friends, full of a charm that lets everyone open their hearts and sing along.
homeYusaku Kiyama
A moving ballad filled with warm father-to-child love and hopes for growth has been delivered by Yusaku Kiyama.
His gentle, calm voice conveys deep affection for family, and despite its straightforward storytelling, it leaves a lasting resonance in the listener’s heart.
Released in February 2008, the song was featured as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “UtaSta!!” and Yomiuri TV’s “Joho Live Miyane-ya,” and it also led to his appearance at the 59th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen that same year.
For karaoke, it’s recommended when you want to reflect on family memories or express gratitude to someone special.
It’s a tender, warmth-filled song—like softly returning someone’s hand squeeze under a bright sky.
I can't stay a daydreaming girlNanae Aikawa
This is Nanase Aikawa’s debut single, “Yume Miru Shoujo Ja Irarenai,” released in 1995.
It was used as the ending theme for the Fuji TV drama V no Honoo.
Her powerful, dynamic vocals are really cool, and she’s an artist respected by men as well.
single bedSharam Q
This is a poignant ballad by Sharam Q, the band fronted by Tsunku, who is also known as a producer for idol groups like Morning Musume and Melon Kinenbi.
Released in 1994, it sparked a boom.
Although it peaked at No.
9 on the Oricon charts at the time, it became a long-running hit and Sharam Q’s first million-selling single.
It’s a breakup ballad that sings about being unable to forget a former lover.
The dramatic chorus melody is so catchy that once you hear it, you won’t forget it.
Linda LindaThe Blue Hearts
The Blue Hearts’ classic “Linda Linda.” It’s an indispensable song when talking about Japanese punk rock.
Its intense vibes often lead to misunderstandings, but in fact the vocal line is surprisingly gentle and the range isn’t very wide.
Since it sits in the low to mid range, anyone can sing it comfortably with the right key adjustment.
However, the low notes in the verse (A-melo) are fairly low, so don’t lower the key too much just because the chorus and the B-melo feel easy to sing.