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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Top 10 hype songs recommended for people in their 40s (1–10)
Marunouchi SadisticRingo Sheena
In the late 1990s, Ringo Sheena made a striking debut on the music scene.
Her songs, marked by a unique worldview and literary sensibility, continue to captivate many listeners to this day.
This work is a track included on Sheena’s debut album, “Muzai Moratorium,” released on February 24, 1999.
Set in Tokyo’s Marunouchi district, the lyrics vividly portray fragments of urban life and the complex emotions of a young woman.
Woven with Sheena’s sharp social observations and profound love for music, this piece has become a classic that is still covered by numerous artists more than 20 years later.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you suddenly feel the urge to reconnect with yourself amid days consumed by work and household chores.
A bouquet of flowers with loveSuperfly
It’s a signature work by Superfly, whose soul-stirring, powerful vocals deliver love straight to the listener’s heart.
In this song, the many emotions of life—joy, sorrow, gratitude—are expressed like a colorful bouquet of flowers, carrying a warm yet strong message that, no matter how many detours we take, our feelings return to the ones we cherish.
The protagonist, awkward yet earnest in trying to convey love and thanks, will move many listeners and give them energy for tomorrow.
Released in February 2008 as the fourth single, it stirred great emotion as the theme song for the drama “Edison no Haha” (Edison’s Mother).
Step a little away from the everyday, sing your heart out with all your feelings, and this is sure to lift your spirits!
YAH YAH YAHCHAGE and ASKA
CHAGE and ASKA’s classic “YAH YAH YAH,” released on March 3, 1993.
It was also used as the theme song for the TV drama “If You Turn Around, He’s There,” and the duo appeared in the theme sequence as well.
The chorus’s lyrics and melody are easy to remember, making it catchy enough for first-time listeners to sing along.
In the YouTube comments, it’s even called “the pinnacle of J-pop.” It remains a staple crowd-pleaser and a popular karaoke song even today—so give it a try!
Upbeat Songs Recommended for People in Their 40s (11–20)
ROSIERLUNA SEA
LUNA SEA is a five-member rock band whose inimitable musicality has electrified fans, inspiring countless visual kei bands to emulate their style.
Their third single, “ROSIER,” became a major hit despite having no tie-in, even winning the Japan Record Awards’ Best Promotional Video.
Its thrilling, syncopation-heavy beat naturally sends your energy soaring just by listening.
While it has a driving sense of speed, the song sits in a lower key, making it a rock tune that’s relatively easy to sing at karaoke.
I don't want to let go.T-BOLAN
For those in their 40s and older, the classic “Hanashitaku wa Nai” is one of T-BOLAN’s signature songs that sparked their popularity.
It’s a slow-tempo ballad, so pick the perfect moment to sing it.
People tend to think the key is high, but that’s not the case at all.
It’s also a tried-and-true move to reach out your hand toward your girlfriend or the woman you like at the end of the chorus!
HONEYL’Arc〜en〜Ciel
One of L’Arc~en~Ciel’s signature songs, this track showcases a straightforward, cool appeal.
Its driving band sound, delivered with a simple arrangement, is a major draw.
Despite the powerful and stripped-down sound, the lyrics express sorrow, depicting someone desperately struggling to convey their feelings.
It might be interesting to sing it while considering the contrast between the sound and the lyrical content.
It’s a song that makes you want to sing coolly with Hyde in mind.
cherrySpitz
It’s a masterpiece whose clear, beautiful melody resonates deep in the heart.
It weaves together memories of a faint romance and the resolve to move forward after overcoming them.
Released in April 1996 as one of Spitz’s signature songs, it topped the Oricon charts and became a million-seller.
It’s also very popular for karaoke and is sure to liven up drinking parties and school reunions.
It’s the perfect song for men in their 40s who feel nostalgic about their youth.