A ballad that will definitely make you cry at karaoke
At after-parties following drinking sessions or celebrations, the mood can sometimes turn reflective.
This is especially common during karaoke at second parties for clubs or circles.
Many people might wonder, “What kind of songs should I sing at times like that?”
So this time, we’ve picked out some tear-jerking classics for those situations.
Assuming you’ll be singing them at karaoke, we’ve chosen songs that aren’t too difficult, so be sure to check them out!
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Ballads That Always Make You Cry at Karaoke (1–10)
chicken riceNoriyuki Makihara and Masatoshi Hamada
Let me introduce “Chicken Rice,” a song that not only moves you to tears but is also easy to sing.
This track was created as a collaboration sparked by a music program between singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara and Masatoshi Hamada, a member of Downtown.
The lyrics were written by Hamada’s partner, Hitoshi Matsumoto, and depict events from his own childhood.
Even though it isn’t stated explicitly, the love for family comes through—one of the reasons it’s so touching.
Be mindful of the nuances in the details as you try singing it.
Door of LifeMariya Takeuchi
This is a song by Mariya Takeuchi that conveys the image of carefully looking back on the long journey of life.
After being included on the album “Denim,” it was also released as a single and chosen as the theme song for the drama “Musume no Kekkon” (A Daughter’s Marriage).
Its gentle sound, tinged with elements of country music, leaves an impression and evokes a sense of retracing one’s path and feeling nostalgic about the past.
Reflecting on human connections formed over a long span of time, the song carries a warm atmosphere that gently moves the heart.
The Toilet GodKana Uemura
A gem of a ballad that weaves together love and gratitude for family.
Through the habit of cleaning the toilet taught by her grandmother, it portrays how the protagonist learns what’s truly important in life.
Kana Uemura’s clear, pure vocals resonate as if gently embracing the listener’s heart.
Included on the mini-album “Watashi no Kakeratachi,” released in March 2010, this piece runs nearly ten minutes yet never wears out its welcome.
Memories with her grandmother and the protagonist’s growing inner world are depicted with care, making it a masterpiece that sinks deeper into the heart with every listen.
It’s the perfect song to play when you want to renew your feelings of gratitude toward someone important.
Ballads That Always Make You Cry at Karaoke (11–20)
PierceONE OK ROCK
Speaking of famous songs, there are several, but this one is a rare ballad for ONE OK ROCK and features many English lyrics.
When you listen to it knowing the Japanese translation, the feeling that “sometimes love alone can’t fix things” comes through and really resonates.
You can do it!Miyuki Nakajima
A masterpiece filled with encouragement for those facing life’s hardships, this is one of Miyuki Nakajima’s signature works.
Its powerful lyrics and warm melody resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in 1983, it was used in a Sumitomo Life commercial in 1994 and, along with serving as the theme song for the drama “Homeless Child,” became a million seller.
Later, in 2012, it was featured in a CalorieMate commercial, making it widely known among younger generations.
Sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to stir empathy and bring tears.
When you find yourself at a standstill, its courageous lyrics will strike right to the heart.
balladKetsumeishi
A love ballad from Ketsumeishi that offers a different flavor from their usual cheerful image.
It’s a tear-jerker that gently yet poignantly sings of unfulfilled feelings for someone special, carried by a tender, aching melody.
With rap kept to a minimum and piano and strings that seep into the heart, this piece also surprised longtime fans as a bold departure.
Released in January 2011 as one half of a double A-side single and included on the classic album Ketsunopolis 7, it was also used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s information program Sukkiri!!.
If you sing it softly at karaoke—where upbeat tracks usually steal the show—its contrast will draw everyone in.
Why not showcase a new side of yourself with this hidden gem?
366 daysHY
A signature song by HY that portrays a heartrending love.
Its clear, translucent melody resonates deeply with listeners.
The lyrics depict an unrequited love with aching sorrow, yet they somehow convey a gentle warmth, making it easy for many to relate.
The track is included on the album “HeartY,” released in April 2008, and was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama and Toho-distributed film Red Thread.
It also appeared in a Kirin Afternoon Tea commercial.
It’s the perfect choice for creating a reflective mood at second gatherings like after-parties or post-event get-togethers.
If you sing it at karaoke, people around you will listen quietly, letting you deliver an emotionally moving performance.