Sad songs I want to sing at karaoke

heartPorno Graffitti

heart

A heart swollen red from losing something precious.

Because there’s no going back to when I was happy, all I can do is steel myself.

This is a ballad that sings of that helpless heartache, and the strength it takes to keep going.

It's nothing.Macaroni Enpitsu

Macaroni Empitsu “It’s Nothing,” MV

A signature song by Macaroni Empitsu, who won the Best New Artist Award at the 63rd Japan Record Awards in 2021.

It’s a track overflowing with the frustration of realizing that no matter how hard you try to put things into words, what truly matters can’t be expressed—and yet with a feeling of deep affection.

The simple, lovely lyrics are soothing to the heart.

Although the song has a wide vocal range, its basic rhythm is slow, so it should be relatively easy to sing.

Even if your delivery is unpolished, if you can convey a sense of wistfulness, you may be able to move listeners in a warm, gentle way.

powder snowRemioromen

Remioromen – Powder Snow (Music Video Short ver.)

While “Konayuki,” one of Remioromen’s signature songs, is hugely popular as a go-to karaoke track, it’s also a renowned tearjerker.

The song is structured to soar at the chorus, and if you can sing that expansive hook well, it’s sure to feel amazing.

Plus, since the track was used as an insert song in the drama “1 Litre of Tears,” recalling the show’s story alongside the heartrending lyrics really touches the heart and can bring you to tears.

MissingToshinobu Kubota

Toshinobu Kubota – Missing [Official Video Short ver.]

Toshinobu Kubota’s “Missing,” which was also used as an insert song for the drama “Dōkyūsei,” was hugely popular—a ballad so moving that even first-time listeners might be brought to tears.

It is the very pinnacle of bittersweet emotion.

Every time you listen to it or sing it, it’s a masterpiece that makes you want to cry.

I look up as I walkKyu Sakamoto

Walk, Looking Up – 'Sukiyaki' – Kyu Sakamoto (Sakamoto Kyu) 1961.avi

A famous song loved overseas under the title “Sukiyaki.” Walking with my head held high so the tears won’t fall… such sentimental and lovely words, aren’t they? It’s a message that truly resonates when your heart is fragile.

It’s so well-known that just about everyone knows it, making it perfect for karaoke.

It’s wonderful for everyone to join voices and sing together.

planetariumAi Otsuka

Planetarium – Ai Otsuka (Full)

This song sings of the sorrow of not being able to meet someone anymore, yet being unable to stop wanting to see them.

It’s one of the signature songs by Ai Otsuka, a singer-songwriter from Osaka Prefecture, released in 2005 as her 10th single.

Just reading the lyrics can bring you to tears.

If you’ve recently gone through a breakup, please try singing it.

Tears of TomorrowMai Koseki

Mai Koseki “Namida no Tomorrow” Promotion Edit

A heartrending song about heartbreak was released in April 2024.

It carefully depicts the emotional shifts of a protagonist who’s been told it’s over, tightening the listener’s chest.

The melody, reminiscent of the ’90s, pairs beautifully with lyrics that express raw, relatable feelings.

Mai Koseki’s gentle vocals further accentuate the pain of heartbreak.

This track was also chosen as the ending theme for the drama “Cinderella Complex.” It’s a song you’ll want to listen to on nights of romantic disappointment or when you’re trying to move on from someone important.

Why not let your tears flow while being enveloped in its tender, comforting sound?