Nostalgic Japanese Pop Hits That Get 40-Something Men and Women Excited
There are plenty of chances to end up at karaoke—whether it’s drinks with coworkers or reunions with old friends—but do you ever find yourself struggling to pick the right songs?
I’m not too familiar with recent hits, and if it’s a gathering of people from the same generation, I’d rather get everyone hyped with nostalgic tunes we listened to in our youth.
So in this article, I’ll introduce some great crowd-pleasers recommended for people in their 40s!
I’ve focused mainly on nostalgic songs from around the 1990s, so if you’re in your 40s, these tracks should bring back memories of your younger days.
Not only are they perfect for getting everyone in the same age group excited together, but they’re also timeless classics from the Japanese music scene—so there are plenty of songs that people of all ages can enjoy together!
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Recommended for men (1–10)
MarionetteBOØWY
BOØWY is a legendary rock band that still commands a devoted fan base today and features rock stars like Kyosuke Himuro and Tomoyasu Hotei, who remain active.
Their sixth single, “Marionette,” one of their signature songs, is a track whose intro guitar riff many people—whether or not they were guitar kids—have probably tried to play if they’re from that generation.
The melody is straightforward and doesn’t span a wide range, but because the pitch movement across the song is quite dynamic, you can easily slip up at karaoke if you let your guard down.
As a famous song, it’s a number we hope will be sung not only by people in their 40s who likely listened to it in their youth, but by a wide range of generations.
crimsonX JAPAN
X JAPAN is a five-member rock band that continues to earn support at home and abroad for its metal sound infused with classical elements.
Their major-label debut single, “Kurenai,” is also known as a number that had already been a staple at their live shows since their indie days.
The high-speed ensemble featuring double bass drums—rare in the J-pop scene at the time—likely shocked many listeners in their 40s today who grew up with it.
Because of its very high vocal range, it’s recommended to adjust the key to suit your voice, but if you can power through it, it’s a cathartic metal anthem that will make you want to scream and blow off stress.
Take back the love!!Crystal King
Characterized by powerful sound and a strong, commanding vocal, this song portrays a man who fights to protect the one he loves and reclaim a lost future.
Even in a world shrouded in darkness, it celebrates belief in love and an unyielding spirit, and is widely known as a classic that resonates with many listeners.
Released in October 1984, the track gained major attention as the opening theme for the popular anime Fist of the North Star.
When you’re worn out by work or life, why not belt this one out and recharge? It will surely awaken the fiery passion sleeping in your heart.
GLORIAZIGGY
ZIGGY is a rock band that has gained popularity with its look inspired by LA metal and glam rock, and a sound that’s rock at its core yet undeniably pop.
Released as their second and fifth singles, GLORIA is a rock tune known as ZIGGY’s biggest hit.
The contrast between its simple, straightforward melody and its quintessential rock beat evokes the timeless charm of classic rock in any era.
It’s a quintessential 1980s anthem—sure to fire up any karaoke session—especially for those who spent their youth in their 40s’ generation.
Recommended for men (11–20)
As I love you selfishly, I won’t hurt anyone but you.B’z
“Ai no mama ni wagamama ni boku wa kimi dake o kizutsukenai” is a song released in 1993 by the rock duo B’z.
Sing it at karaoke and the length of the title alone will be a great conversation starter—instant crowd-pleaser! The track sold over two million copies and achieved an extraordinary run on the Oricon charts, ranking No.
1 for four consecutive weeks.
As a result, it’s beloved across generations as one of B’z’s signature songs.
It was also used as the theme song for the 1993 remake of the TV drama Journey to the West (Saiyuki).
If you’re from the same generation, it might help you bond with others who watched the show too!
Rose of PassionTHE BLUE HEARTS
A classic hit released by THE BLUE HEARTS in the 1990s.
The lyrics, themed around a passionate rose, express eternity, truth, and the inner conflicts of human beings.
Carrying a message to nurture the powerful emotions deep within our hearts, it has become a song that resonates with many.
Released in July 1990, it became the band’s first single to reach No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
It was also used as a TV drama theme song and has been loved across generations.
Its catchy chorus and Hiroto Kōmoto’s powerful vocals leave a strong impression, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at karaoke.
It’s perfect for moments like company parties or class reunions when you want to have fun while feeling a touch of nostalgia.
POISON ~A world where you can’t even say what you want to say~Takashi Sorimachi
Takashi Sorimachi has not only been active as an actor but also as a singer.
Many women in their 40s have likely been captivated by his allure.
Speaking of his signature songs, it has to be “POISON ~I can’t even say what I want to say in a world like this~.” The track gained nationwide popularity, partly because it was used as the theme song for the hit drama GTO.
While the song features a lot of low notes, its range is quite narrow at mid1 B to mid2 E, so there’s plenty of room to raise the key.
If you sing it in the right key, there’s nothing particularly difficult about it, so consider adding it to your repertoire.