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 women (1–10)
Song of LoveKumi Koda
Kumi Koda, who dominated the 2000s music scene with her sensuality and power.
The exquisite ballad she wrote—reflecting a shift in her view of love and themed around “love is something you give”—was released in September 2007 and remains a beloved classic that still grips many hearts.
The lyrics portray the protagonist’s poignant wish and strong resolve to stay true to an unwavering love, even as she senses the end of her relationship with the one she loves—something that truly tugs at the heart.
The song also became widely known as the CM track for MTI’s “music.
jp” and the support song for “World Judo 2007.” On busy days, when you want to pause and reflect on the pure form of love, try singing it with feeling.
It’s sure to fill you with warmth and a touch of nostalgia!
Wasshoi!NEW!Nanae Aikawa
Nanase Aikawa was recently appointed as the Japan–Brazil Friendship and Goodwill Ambassador.
Her song “Wasshoi!” was released in 2025 with the theme of connecting Brazil and Japan.
The piece intentionally incorporates a distinctly Japanese-style melody, featuring several enka-like phrases.
As a result, it’s naturally crafted to be easy for Japanese listeners to sing, but since the end of the chorus holds a long note at a slightly higher pitch, be careful not to let your voice crack there.
If you set the key to suit this section, there aren’t any particularly difficult elements, so please use this as a reference.
Cold Flowerthe brilliant green
This is a gem of a love song released by the brilliant green, who made a striking debut on the late-’90s music scene.
Set to a heartrending melody, the lyrics deftly portray the emotions wavering between love and despair, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released in August 1998, it proudly claimed the No.
1 spot on the Oricon monthly singles chart.
As a major hit from the height of the CD boom, it remains etched in the memories of many.
Tomoko Kawase’s clear, translucent vocals should be comfortable even for women in their 40s to sing.
If you’re heading to karaoke between work or house chores, why not give this song a try?
Can’t Stop Fallin’ in Loveglobe
A signature hit by globe that colored the winter of 1996.
Its lyrics poignantly depict the moment of falling in love, set to a danceable rhythm with synth-pop elements.
It sold over 1.
3 million copies in total and became a major hit, topping the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for two consecutive weeks.
It was also chosen as the campaign song for JR East’s “JR ski ski,” making it a defining track of the winter season at the time.
If you sing it at karaoke, you can take on KEIKO’s distinctive tone and expressive vocals.
Try practicing before a ski trip with friends and liven up the slopes.
cherry (cherry fruit; sakuranbo)Ai Otsuka
Known as one of Ai Otsuka’s signature songs, this track is her second single, released in December 2003.
As an upbeat, bright love song, it captured the hearts of many.
The lyrics depict a sweet, always-together relationship like a pair of cherries, giving listeners energy and courage.
It’s also beloved in a wide range of settings, even being used as a cheer song for high school baseball.
If you sing it at karaoke, it’s perfect for relieving the stress of busy days at work or parenting.
Belt it out with full energy and get everyone pumped up!
Unwavering WishNaomi Tamura
This song is a masterpiece that drove the anime song boom of the 1990s.
Featuring Naomi Tamura’s powerful vocals and a melody that resonates deeply, it captured the hearts of many.
The lyrics, which sing about holding fast to your own wishes and moving forward toward the future with courage, still touch people today.
Released in November 1994, it peaked at No.
7 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and became a major hit with total sales exceeding 1.
2 million copies.
Used as the opening theme for the TV anime Magic Knight Rayearth, it stands as one of Tamura’s signature works.
When singing it at karaoke, it’s best to deliver it with strength and a positive spirit.
This is a recommended track for those who refuse to give up on their dreams amid busy days of work or childcare.
God of RomanceKohmi Hirose
Kohmi Hirose, whose YouTube channel has been generating major buzz, is active in many roles, including singer-songwriter, lyricist, composer, arranger, music producer, and vocal coach.
“Romance no Kamisama” was released on December 1, 1993 as a tie-in song for an Alpen commercial, sold over 1.
7 million copies, and became her biggest hit.
It’s an upbeat pop song that frankly voices women’s true feelings.
It’s perfect for women in their 40s—who’ve been through all kinds of experiences—to sing at karaoke to blow off some steam!