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

Single‑minded Cinderella!CUTIE STREET

[MV] CUTIE STREET “Single-minded Cinderella!”

CUTIE STREET, the hottest idol group right now.

Unlike the trendy idol groups that mainly feature K-pop influences, their classic, moe-filled orthodox style really stands out.

Their song “Single-minded Cinderella!” is a gem with a bright, poppy vibe.

From the feel of the track, you might think it’s high, but surprisingly the vocal range is narrow, and there are no sustained notes in the upper mid to high range.

It doesn’t demand fundamental vocal technique, so it’s a song that’s easy for any woman to sing.

arDevil ANTHEM.

Devil ANTHEM./「ar」MV

Devil ANTHEM.

, a female idol group formed in 2014 and affectionately known as “Debian,” released their milestone major-label debut single “ar” through Victor Entertainment.

Catchy and pop, the track features cute sound effects commonly heard in recent EDM, giving it a fresh vibe that could be called a new-generation idol sound.

Even those who’ve grown tired of classic idol songs are sure to be struck by the unique charm this song offers.

orchestraBiSH

BiSH / Orchestra [And yet BiSH moves.] @ Osaka-jo Hall

A song that has always supported BiSH, the “punk band without instruments.” The lyrics, which liken the feelings and pain of heartbreak—and all the accompanying inner conflict—to an orchestra, are exquisite.

After hearing this track, you might feel that categorizing artists as idols or musicians is meaningless—it’s that much of a masterpiece.

When BiSH comes up, people often ask: are you on the Aina (AiNA THE END) side or the Chitti side? Aina’s husky voice is incredibly light on its feet, and Chitti’s sweet tone is captivating from a different angle—so, long story short, you just can’t choose.

If you’re among idol fans, I hope you jump in and sing this song right away to make everyone go “Whoa!” The key is to hold back as much as possible on the hook at the very beginning!

Insincere wordsNogizaka46

Nogizaka46 “Things I Don’t Mean”

Nogizaka46 is an idol group that debuted as AKB48’s official rival and has continued to lead the front lines of the Sakamichi Series.

“Kokoro nimo Nai Koto,” included on their 32nd single “Hito wa Yume wo Nido Miru,” is a track by 5th-generation members that has drawn attention as a song said to feel natural no matter who takes the center position.

The contrast between the delicate, translucent piano tones and the cute vocals, combined with the sentimental lyrics, stirs a bittersweet feeling.

It’s a catchy pop tune that truly befits a classic, orthodox idol song.

Follow MeE-girls

E-Girls / Follow Me ～Short Version～

“Follow Me,” regarded as the signature song of E-girls—a girl group under LDH JAPAN, the same agency as EXILE and often described as EXILE’s “sister” group—stands out among their hits.

Although E-girls sadly disbanded in 2020, their many hit songs can still be heard in lots of places today.

The biggest hype point of this track is, without a doubt, the chorus—especially the “Wo Woo” call right as it kicks in, which absolutely makes you want to respond.

If you’re performing it, be sure to encourage the crowd to respond there.

In a large venue, showing off the choreography could be great too; if you have dance experience, really lean into it and get the crowd going!

Uppercut!Up Up Girls (Kari)

Uppercut! Up Up Girls (Kari) LIVE #UpGa

Despite being an idol group, their aggressive, intense style in both music and performance captivates fans.

This is one of their powerful tracks.

The driving sound will amp you up, making it a perfect song for everyone to go all out together.

There are tons of call-and-response parts, so there’s no time to rest!

GeeGirls' Generation

Girls’ Generation Shoujo Jidai ‘Gee’ MV (Japanese Ver.)

When they debuted in Japan, I was captivated by their perfectly synchronized large-group dancing, cute performances, and long legs.

Everyone instantly fell for how amazing K-pop idols are, right? And of course, their bursting, energetic sound is irresistible.

This song seems like it’ll forever be a go-to hype track at karaoke.