When you want to hype it up with your peers! Karaoke songs recommended for Gen Z
What kind of songs do you usually pick when you go to karaoke with someone?
In recent years, thanks in part to subscription services, it’s said we’re in the midst of a revival boom, and it’s become easy to enjoy a vast number of songs regardless of generation.
Of course, with new tracks constantly being released, you might find yourself unsure what to sing at karaoke.
So this time, we’re focusing on songs released roughly between 2011 and 2024—the years when Gen Z likely spent their youth—and introducing tracks that are guaranteed to get the crowd going at karaoke!
From songs everyone can sing along to, to tracks that sparked iconic dance moves, we’ve curated a wide selection.
Be sure to check them out!
When you want to get hyped with your peers! Karaoke songs recommended for Gen Z (1–10)
lilacNEW!Mrs. GREEN APPLE
Vividly depicting the bittersweetness and hope of youth, this work was released in April 2024 as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery.
” As symbolized by its title, which carries the flower-language meanings of “first love” and “memories of youth,” the song sings of the importance of loving yourself, scars and all.
Its lyrics, which give you the courage to look forward even amid imperfect days, are delivered over Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s signature guitar rock sound.
It won the 66th Japan Record Award, and its streaming play count surpassed 300 million in record time.
This is a track you’ll want to hear when you’re struggling with the gap between dreams or ideals and reality, and need a gentle push forward.
KICKBACKNEW!Kenshi Yonezu
Kenshi Yonezu, who draws attention for his genre-blurring musicality from electronica to folk, released his 13th single in November 2022 as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man—a track that sonically paints protagonist Denji’s desires and inner turmoil.
Its lyrics, where a thirst for happiness collides with the emptiness of reality, resonate with the mindset of young people trying to claw their way up from rock bottom.
The fierce drum’n’bass-infused beat and dizzying key changes are an emotional roller coaster in themselves.
With dance videos spreading across social media, it also meshes perfectly with the digitally native Gen Z audience.
It’s an impulsive rock tune for anyone craving a jolt in their everyday life.
DOGLANDNEW!PEOPLE 1
Released in December 2022, this track mixes a slightly eerie atmosphere with poetic lyrics.
It drew attention as the ending theme for episode 10 of the anime Chainsaw Man, arriving at a milestone moment as PEOPLE 1’s first anime theme song.
The structure is striking: rap-like verses give way to a chorus where the band ensemble brings a catchy lift, and the lyrics—linking physicality with inner emotion—hit straight to the heart.
Later included on the album “Hoshimeguri, Kimi ni Kinsei,” the song shines with lyrics and composition by Deu and arrangement by Hajime Taguchi.
Its cool world, balancing ambiguity and intensity, is perfect for listeners seeking refined music in everyday life or those moved by the synchronicity of animation and music.
Kaiju no Hanabuta (Monster's Flower Song)Vaundy
Singer-songwriter Vaundy, who showed musical sensibility from a young age and also creates his own artwork.
Selected as the CM song for Maruha Nichiro’s WILDish series “For Us” commercial, this track was released in advance from his first album, “strobo,” and became a hit.
Released in May 2020, the song features a fast-paced melody and lyrics that evoke the bittersweetness of youth.
It’s a pop tune that Gen Z listeners can relate to, singing about parting with friends and the anxieties of growing up.
R.Y.U.S.E.I.Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE
Known as a signature song of Sandaime J Soul Brothers from EXILE TRIBE, this track delivers a positive message.
Its lyrics about dreams, hope, friendship, and the courage to take on challenges resonate with many listeners.
Released in June 2014, the song reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart and became a million-seller.
It was also selected as the campaign song for Tokyo City Keiba in 2014.
With its exhilarating sound and dynamic choreography, this piece is perfect for Gen Z listeners looking to get hyped at karaoke.
It’s great for group sing-alongs with friends, and trying the dance is fun too.
chantAdo
An energetic and exotic track that showcases Ado’s richly expressive vocals.
It carries themes of complex inner conflict and a message celebrating diversity, resonating deeply with listeners.
Released digitally in September 2023, it was produced as a collaboration song for Universal Studios Japan’s Halloween event, “Halloween Horror Nights.” The track achieved significant commercial success, including reaching No.
1 on the Billboard JAPAN Streaming Songs chart.
It’s the perfect song for getting everyone hyped at karaoke or for those seeking a high-impact dance number.
EdisonWednesday Campanella
Wednesday Campanella, known for their distinctive sound and humorous lyrics, have been drawing attention.
This track, included on Neon—their first album with new vocalist Utaha—became a massive hit, especially on TikTok.
With lyrics themed around the inventor Edison, it deftly portrays the struggle for self-realization in modern society.
Its catchy phrases and brisk beat stick in your head, making it irresistibly singable.
Released in February 2022, it earned broad support, spending an extended time on streaming charts.
It’s a pop tune that suggests a new form of J-pop—perfect for a morning refresh or as driving BGM.