Idol Songs from the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Eras: Classic and Latest Hits That Light Up Karaoke
We’ve picked out songs from a wide range of idols—male and female alike—from classic Showa and Heisei-era idol hits to idols thriving in the Reiwa era!
Alongside the all-time staples, we’ve gathered insider-favorite tracks that idol enthusiasts will appreciate, while still being easy for a broad audience to enjoy.
Use this list as a reference for your next playlist.
Many of the melodies are simple, so everyone can sing, dance, and get hyped together!
Go all out with the latest tracks bursting with idol charm, or bask in nostalgia with old favorites—enjoy idol songs in whatever way suits you best!
[Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Idol Songs] Classic and Latest Hits (1–10) That Fire Up Karaoke
Is being cute not enough?CUTIE STREET
CUTIE STREET’s new song, which brought a fresh breeze to the 2024 idol scene, is turning heads with its catchy melody and positive lyrics.
It humorously challenges what “cute” really means, delivering a message that inner strength matters just as much as outward cuteness.
It’s also blowing up on social media, with over 100,000 posts on TikTok.
The track was released as a CD single in November, accompanied by events held across the country.
It’s a must-listen not only for idol fans but for anyone who wants to embrace their true self.
Sing it at karaoke and the whole room is sure to light up!
flying getAKB48
Set to a passionate sound that fuses Latin and rock, this song portrays the push-and-pull of romance.
The lyrics, which express proactiveness and strategy in love, also leave a strong impression.
Released in August 2011, the track drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Hanazakari no Kimitachi e.” It also won the Grand Prize at the 53rd Japan Record Awards, marking AKB48’s first such honor.
If you sing it at karaoke, try expressing that fiery romantic feeling with your whole body.
It’s a recommended song for anyone who wants to be more proactive in love.
It's the cutest ever!Cho Tokimeki♡Sendenbu
Sparked by heartbreak and turning it into becoming your cutest self ever.
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This uplifting message is at the heart of a Tokimeki♡Sendenbu track, a pop tune crafted by singer-songwriter Koresawa.
With its catchy melody and easy-to-learn choreography, it became a major hit, especially on TikTok.
The song was included on the January 2024 album “Tokimeku Koi to Seishun,” and was later released as a single.
It’s perfect not only for those nursing a broken heart but also for anyone who wants a boost of confidence.
Sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to be a song that gives you energy!
Please never quit being an idol.＝LOVE
A signature song by =LOVE that sings of the bittersweet feelings of idol fans.
With lyrics written by Rino Sashihara, it deftly portrays the pure love and complex emotions toward one’s oshi.
It conveys the wish to “keep watching you shine forever” and the inner conflict about an idol’s future, resonating deeply with fans.
Released in July 2024, the song reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
Its music video has surpassed 10 million views, capturing the hearts of many.
Sing it at karaoke, and you’re sure to connect with fellow idol lovers.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to reaffirm your love for idols.
ClickME:I
ME:I’s debut song gives you the courage to take your first step toward your dreams.
The phrase “Click,” which evokes a light illuminating the future, leaves a strong impression, and the vibrant voices of the 11 members paint a world full of hope.
Released digitally in March 2024, the track sparked an astonishing response, surpassing 2.
6 million streams in just 21 hours.
It’s perfect for turning up the energy at karaoke.
You can enjoy doing the choreography with friends, and if you sing along while watching the music video featuring ME:I’s official character, ME:EYE, the fun is guaranteed to double!
Dancing HeroYoko Oginome
This is Yoko Oginome’s single released in November 1985, her biggest hit to date with total sales surpassing 700,000 copies.
Centered on the theme of a “Cinderella Boy” dancing the night away in the city, it captures the glittering world of the disco.
Oginome’s powerful vocals and lyrics that dreamily depict a magical night have an addictive quality you can’t forget once you hear them.
In 2017, the song drew fresh attention thanks to the performance by the Osaka Prefectural Tomioka High School Dance Club, leading to a revival hit.
Even for generations who never experienced the Bubble era, just hearing the intro conjures images of padded-shoulder suits and tightly permed bangs.
It’s an idol song guaranteed to fire up any karaoke session!
LOVE MachineMorning Musume
Formed by members selected from those who didn’t make it in an audition project, Morning Musume has now become synonymous with idols in the J-pop scene.
This is the group’s seventh single, which became their first million-seller and a signature song that made the name Morning Musume known to listeners across generations.
Its disco-based arrangement and comedic choreography make it perfect for everyone to enjoy at karaoke.
With exceptionally catchy lyrics and melody, it’s a quintessential karaoke number of the Heisei era.