Classic summer hits that are easy to sing at karaoke. Recommended popular songs [2025]

sparklerSonoko Inoue

Sonoko Inoue / Sparklers -Music Video- (Full Ver.)

When it comes to Sonoko Inoue’s music, the image that comes to mind is her translucent voice singing about down-to-earth feelings of love, so it’s the kind of music you want to choose when you feel like singing something mellow.

This track was released in July 2014, when she was still a high school junior, as the title song of her mini-album “Senko Hanabi,” and it beautifully depicts the fleeting emotions of love at summer’s end.

Produced by Ryota Yanagisawa of SUPER BEAVER, the dramatic melody has a relaxed tempo, making it a song you can sing comfortably while immersing yourself in the lyrics’ world.

After reminiscing about your summer memories, be sure to give it a try.

Can't Say Anything... SummerTHE JAYWALK

[Official] J-WALK “Speechless… Summer”

Among the countless smash hits that emerged in the 1990s, this song stands as one of the quintessential summer tracks.

Interestingly, it was originally included on the album “DOWN TOWN STORIES,” then rearranged for a summer vibe with revised lyrics and re-released in July 1991.

It didn’t actually become a hit until the summer of 1992 and beyond.

Its memorable lyrics portray a protagonist left speechless by a sudden breakup at summer’s end, and the calm yet deeply affecting melody is truly superb.

The song also served as the theme for the drama “Otona no Natsuyasumi.” If you’ve experienced something similar to the protagonist, you may find yourself in tears just listening.

The melody is easy to sing, and since it’s a karaoke staple, give it a try!

Two People's Summer Story - NEVER ENDING SUMMER -Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe

Two People's Summer Story - NEVER ENDING SUMMER -

When it comes to songs that symbolize summers of the ’80s, many people probably think of this track by Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe.

Released in March 1985, it’s also well known as a JAL commercial song.

Set against a marina on a night lit by shooting stars, it deftly portrays the thrill of a summer romance along with the bittersweet sense of an impending farewell.

It’s hard to believe the sleek, refreshing sound was completed in just three days; layered with Sugiyama’s clear, expansive vocals, it conjures vivid summer scenes the moment you listen.

It’s not a difficult song, so give it a try at karaoke—whatever your generation!

MarigoldAimyon

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Aimyon captivates many fans with melodies that feel somehow nostalgic and lyrics that speak straight to the heart.

Released in August 2018, this song is widely known as one of her signature tracks.

Its poignant lyrics, which evoke memories of a summer romance gone by, and its soothing acoustic sound truly resonate.

This track cemented her popularity, and in 2019 she became the first domestic artist to surpass 100 million streams.

With its relaxed tempo and relatively narrow vocal range, even those who feel insecure about singing should find it comfortable to perform.

Give it a try at karaoke!

Summer Love SensationMacaroni Enpitsu

macaroni empitsu “Summer Love Sensation” MV

Set to a breezy, upbeat pop-rock sound, this Macaroni Enpitsu number paints a picture of summer romance.

You can almost see the scenes brimming with youthful sparkle and bittersweet emotion—like the fireworks we watched together while you wore a yukata.

Released in August 2017 as the band’s first single, the song was also included on their first full-length album, CHOSYOKU.

It served as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s music program MelodiX!, so many people may have heard it at the time.

With its catchy, easy-to-sing melody, it’s a great choice even for those who don’t usually sing, and it’s sure to liven up any karaoke session where everyone wants to soak up the summer vibe.

sunflowerAdo

[Ado] Sunflower

When it comes to Ado, many people probably picture powerful, aggressive songs.

But the work released in July 2023 showcases her gentle yet emotional vocals that really resonate.

It was created as the theme song for the TBS drama “18/40: Dreams and Love, If We’re Together.” The song portrays a protagonist who lacks confidence and can’t be honest with herself, wishing to live straight and true—like a flower reaching for the sun, like the person she admires.

Ado’s vocals build movingly from a quiet opening, making this a warm track that seems to gently give listeners a push forward.

Even those who usually find her songs difficult might find this one comfortable to sing.

Paradise BabyRIP SLYME

RIP SLYME – Rakuen Baby

When you think of Japanese hip-hop, you might picture something a bit cool and hard to get into.

That’s exactly why I recommend this track released by RIP SLYME in June 2002.

Its breezy rap over cheerful bossa nova and samba rhythms will lift your mood the moment you listen.

The masterpiece album TOKYO CLASSIC, which includes this song, became the first Japanese hip-hop album to sell over a million copies.

The lyrics evoke a summer vibe where reason gives way to liberation—perfect for getting the energy up when singing karaoke with friends.

And even though it’s hip-hop, the melody is easy to pick up, so consider adding it to your repertoire.