[2025] Songs You Can Add Chants to at Karaoke: A Roundup of Crowd-Pleasers

240 Million Eyes - Exotic JapanHiromi Go

Fujimori & Hiromi Go Aidesuke (call-and-response) 240 Million Eyes (with Chinese subtitles)

This is the 50th single by Hiromi Go, a male singer who dominated the 1970s J-pop scene as one of the “New Big Three” and continues to be active today.

The song was used as the campaign theme for “Exotic Japan,” the final national campaign by Japanese National Railways, the predecessor of the JR Group.

Its title refers to the approximately 120 million pairs of eyes—the population of Japan at the time.

With plenty of easy call-and-response spots, such as the backing chorus under the hook and at the end of the chorus, it has become a karaoke staple.

A self-cover on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE in 2021 also drew attention, making it a number loved across generations.

Blue LightningSMAP

SMAP “Blue Lightning”

This is the 22nd single by SMAP, a five-member idol group that enjoyed national popularity and has remained beloved even after their 2016 breakup.

The song was used as the theme for SMAP×SMAP, the variety show that became hugely popular as the group’s flagship program, and it stands as one of SMAP’s signature tracks, alongside the many classics they released.

The call-and-response in the chorus—led by Takuya Kimura and now a hallmark of the song—is something everyone wants to use at karaoke.

It’s a surefire karaoke staple that can hype up people of any generation at the same energy level.

LOVE YOU ONLYTOKIO

LOVEYOU ONLY

This is the debut single by TOKIO, a three-member group that not only stands out as one of the few band-style acts within Johnny’s but also established a unique position as “agricultural idols.” The song was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Tsuyoshi Shikkari Shinasai, and despite being their major debut track, it remains their best-selling and signature song.

Its arrangement features melodies in the A verse and chorus that aren’t meant to be sung by just one person, which likely makes many people want to recreate it at karaoke.

With its catchy, pop sound that boosts your energy, it’s a guaranteed hit in any karaoke session and a quintessential idol song.

Love beam!!Takayan

Love Beam!! / Takayan (Official Music Video)

A surefire crowd-pleaser for karaoke has arrived! Delivered by Takayan, this energetic love song passionately belts out feelings for a cherished person.

Riding a brisk 180 BPM beat, the bold lyric “Kiss me!” repeats throughout, packed with call-and-response moments that make it extra fun.

Released in December 2022, the track gained massive support from young listeners—especially on TikTok—and became a huge hit leading into Valentine’s season.

Perfect for livening up a karaoke session with your partner or friends.

If everyone shouts “Chu!” for the responses, it’s guaranteed to bring the whole room together.

Timing 〜Timing〜Black Biscuits

Black Biscuits - Timing

When it comes to songs guaranteed to hype up a crowd with call-and-response and shout-alongs, this has to be the one! It’s the signature track by Black Biscuits, a unit born from a TV show.

Centered on the theme of timing, the song celebrates the importance of encounters in life and love.

It features lyrics that resonate with listeners and a catchy melody.

Upon its release in April 1998, it reached No.

2 on the Oricon charts and shipped a total of about 2 million copies.

The group also performed on NHK’s New Year’s Eve music special, Kōhaku Uta Gassen, that same year.

Since the 2020s, the song has enjoyed a revival hit—especially on TikTok—making it popular with younger generations as well.

If you’re looking to get the energy up at karaoke or make memories with friends, why not choose this song?

READY STEADY GOL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc～en～Ciel「READY STEADY GO」-Music Clip-

This is a fast-paced, powerful number released after L’Arc~en~Ciel’s comeback concert in 2003, which marked the beginning of their return from a brief hiatus.

The song was produced with a strong punkish image, and it’s often performed live at an even faster tempo than the demo.

Frequently placed at the start of a show or right before the encore, it’s played in unison with enthusiastic fan call-and-response, sending the live performance into a peak of excitement.

Eat some sushi!Shibugakitai

[+81 DANCE STUDIO] Shibugakitai – Eat Some Sushi! / Performed by Travis Japan

Despite an activity span of only six years, the three-member idol group Shibugakitai left a powerful impact, and even after their breakup, each member has maintained a strong presence.

This is their 18th single.

The song was also broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” and became a major hit thanks to an arrangement that featured rap—something rare in the J-pop scene at the time.

With its comical lyrics and catchy call-and-response that anyone can join, it’s guaranteed to liven up modern karaoke.

A classic from the 1980s that listeners of all generations have likely heard at least once.