Karaoke songs to sing in January: classic and popular tracks to hype up the party

LemonKenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

A classic karaoke song that evokes the fleeting melancholy of winter.

Released in 2018 as Kenshi Yonezu’s eighth single, it became a massive hit.

The creation of the song was reportedly influenced by the world of Motojiro Kajii’s novel “Lemon,” as well as Yonezu’s feelings for his late grandfather, expressing the loneliness of losing a loved one, the preciousness of life, and a solemn grandeur.

The high notes can be a bit challenging, but that’s all the more reason to sing the lower parts with care and a touch of richness.

It’s a well-known masterpiece, so it’s sure to get everyone excited!

Under the same skyAyaka

Ayaka – Under the Same Sky

If you want to cheer up a friend who feels like last year didn’t go so well, I recommend Ayaka’s “Minna Sora no Shita” (“Under the Same Sky”).

Released in 2009, the song was originally written for one of Ayaka’s own friends.

The lyrics carry a message to a friend: “You’re a kind person who gives your all, and you’re amazing for bringing smiles to those around you.” How about singing it to a friend who’s feeling down, with the thought, “You have so many wonderful qualities, so it’s going to be okay”? I’m sure that if you sing it for them, your friend will be able to find their genuine smile again this year!

Winter IllusionAcid Black Cherry

Acid Black Cherry “Fuyu no Maboroshi” MV

Acid Black Cherry is a veteran artist in the visual kei scene.

All the support members are top-tier musicians, so the band is known for its high level.

“Fuyu no Maboroshi” (Winter Illusion) is one of Acid Black Cherry’s signature songs, and its heartbreakingly sad lyrics leave a strong impression.

It also feels great to sing because it has many high note parts.

HeroNamie Amuro

Hero – Namie Amuro (Full)

This is the 45th single by singer Namie Amuro, who enjoyed such immense popularity in the 1990s that she sparked the “Amura” boom, a social phenomenon, and who retired in 2018 to much regret from fans.

Chosen as NHK’s broadcast theme song for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it’s a track many people have likely heard at least once.

With empowering, motivational lyrics and an emotional melody, it’s perfect for your first karaoke performance of the new year.

It’s a famous song everyone knows—one we hope you’ll sing in January as a fresh year begins.

Sounds of WinterGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Yukinone

GReeeeN’s classic hit “Yuki no Ne” has produced numerous hit songs.

Famous as a Christmas song as well, its chorus is very high-pitched and may be difficult for men to sing.

But if you can get through it, the melody feels incredibly good, so it’s recommended as a practice song for karaoke.

MemoriesMAN WITH A MISSION

MAN WITH A MISSION 『Memories(FUYUMATSURI ver.)』

Singing songs with lyrics that let you start the year with a fresh, uplifting feeling is one of the joys of New Year karaoke, isn’t it? The track I’d like to recommend is “Memories.” It’s a song by MAN WITH A MISSION, the band known for their striking wolf-like appearance.

The lyrics convey a message of moving forward into the future while keeping your memories in your heart.

Combined with its driving, fast-paced melody, it’s sure to leave both singers and listeners feeling refreshed.

Since much of the song is in English, be sure to check your pronunciation beforehand.

Let's give it a try.WANIMA

"Let's Try" Full ver. WANIMA [Official]

An ultimate positive, upbeat song by WANIMA.

If you sing it like you’re shouting your New Year’s resolutions and determination, it feels like you’ll get off to a great start! Since everyone starts as a beginner, the lyrics encourage you to give it a try without fearing failure—almost like a life lesson.

This song is perfect for the New Year, so make it your first pick at karaoke!