Idol Songs from the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Eras: Classic and Latest Hits That Light Up Karaoke

Silent majorityKeyakizaka46

Keyakizaka46 'Silent Majority'

This song was released in 2016 as the debut single of Keyakizaka46, produced by Yasushi Akimoto, with Yurina Hirate in the center position.

The strongly message-driven lyrics are striking, and the vocals are notably lower in pitch for an idol group.

In contrast to the song’s direction, the military-style uniforms and choreography create an unforgettable visual once you see it.

It’s a track that invites everyone to sing and dance coolly together and get pumped up.

It might surprisingly suit male vocalists as well.

FLASHPerfume

[Official Music Video] Perfume 「FLASH」

This song was used as the theme when the manga Chihayafuru, originally created by Yuki Suetsugu, was adapted into a film.

It was released in 2016.

The technopop unit Perfume, who perform this track, are known for their distinctive singing and dancing, which make the song especially appealing.

The choreography is said to incorporate kung-fu moves.

It also served as the theme for the special variety program Beat Takeshi’s Owarabo.

Perfume look incredibly cool dancing sharply in black outfits within a monochrome space.

The FeelsTwice

TWICE “The Feels” M/V

Here’s the first all-English single released in 2021 by TWICE, the hugely popular K-pop girl group.

It was aimed at entering the Billboard charts, and it successfully made the rankings just as intended.

With a bass-driven, danceable intro that gets you excited, a melody that’ll loop in your head after just one listen, and the razor-sharp choreography unique to K-pop, it’s packed with elements that will hype up any karaoke session.

Since the lyrics are in English, it’s also a big plus that it seems easier to memorize than Korean.

My cutest partFRUITS ZIPPER

[MV] FRUITS ZIPPER - My Cutest Part

FRUITS ZIPPER, an idol group that has been riding a wave of momentum thanks to this song’s massive success on TikTok.

It was released as a digital single in April 2022 and later came out on CD in September 2023.

With lyrics that boost self-esteem and a catchy, poppy melody, it has won strong support, especially among young women.

It has continued to be a long-running hit, even charting on streaming services into 2024 and beyond.

The lyrics, which encourage recognizing your own charm and having confidence, give listeners energy and courage.

It’s the perfect track for when you want to feel bright and positive.

Love Revolution 21Morning Musume

Morning Musume. 'The Love Revolution 21' (MV)

Here’s a song by Morning Musume released in 2000.

Natsumi Abe and Maki Goto served as the centers.

Arranged by Dance☆Man, the track is crafted with a nod to classic disco music, giving it a cool, hard-edged vibe.

It was used as the opening theme for the TV show “Find the Idol!” and also featured in commercials.

It’s a treat to hear producer Tsunku’s voice in the chorus as well.

It’s a nostalgic yet fresh song that captures the feel of the 21st century.

Sounds goodM!LK

M!LK – Ii jan (Official Music Video)

This is a M!LK song filled with a positive message about embracing your true self just as you are.

Set to an upbeat, forward-looking track, the warm vocals gently envelop the anxieties and worries everyone carries, resonating deeply with the listener.

Released in February as an advance single from the album “M!Ⅹ,” which is slated for March 2025, the song builds a world brimming with positive energy alongside a refined dance performance that highlights each member’s individuality.

It’s the perfect track for moments when your self-confidence wavers or when you want to give someone a supportive nudge.

It also shines at karaoke—sing it with feeling, and it becomes a wonderful song that stays close to the listener’s heart.

Subtly flashy (bling-bling, but nonchalant)Masahiko Kondo

Gingiragin ni Sarigenaku by Masahiko Kondo

This song, released in 1981, is one of Masahiko Kondo’s signature tracks that brought a fresh breeze to the idol pop scene of the time.

It strikes a perfect balance between flashy idol flair and restrained subtlety, captivating listeners with lyrics that weave in English phrases and a catchy rhythm.

It was also included on the album “Gingiragin ni Sarigenaku,” released in December of the same year, and was used in a commercial for House Foods’ “Kukure Curry.” The song marked his debut appearance at the 32nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen and reached No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It’s a recommended pick when you want to get hyped with people of the same generation or savor a nostalgic Showa-era mood.