Sad songs I want to sing at karaoke

Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenEigo Kawashima

Eigo Kawashima – Sake, Tears, Men and Women

Eigo Kawashima’s “Sake, Tears, Men and Women” is a bittersweet song for grown-ups.

When I listen to it, I picture a man who’s clumsy and blunt but kind at heart.

It’s also a popular choice at karaoke when people want to sing something mellow.

Don't go.Koji Tamaki

Ikanaide

This song straightforwardly expresses the regret and pain of having to part.

It was also used as the theme song for the drama “Sayonara Li Xianglan.” The piano- and strings-centered sound is striking, and you can feel the growing intensity of the suffering as the arrangement gradually builds.

The details of what happened between the two aren’t described, focusing solely on the feeling of not wanting to be separated.

The tense soundscape, the raw, unfiltered anguish conveyed directly, and the slightly raspy vocals that accentuate the sorrow make this a track that truly moves the heart.

Give Up on SummerNaoko Ken

Giving Up on Summer – Naoko Ken

Naoko Ken’s “Natsu o Akiramete” is a cover of a classic song by Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars.

It has a different kind of appeal from Kuwata’s version.

In particular, Ken’s husky voice is perfect for expressing a mature, adult world.

Pain

PAIN (ON THE ROAD 2011 “The Last Weekend”)

This song portrays someone looking back on the days spent with a loved one they’ve lost, carrying feelings of regret and heartache.

It was included on the 1984 album “DOWN BY THE MAINSTREET.” The piano-centered, sorrowful sound evokes the sense of pain gradually growing in the heart.

The slow tempo makes it easier to sing, so cherish the words of the lyrics and perform them calmly.

Since it’s a sad ballad, it’s recommended to be very mindful of how you convey emotion.

StoryAI

AI – Story

Since its release, this signature song by AI has been a longtime karaoke staple, beloved by many! As a gentle ballad, it’s a perfect choice for confident singers to captivate the crowd.

If you can recreate AI’s rich, soulful tone, you’ll nail it.

And the most moving part of this song is, of course, the chorus, filled with warm, love-soaked lyrics.

The heartfelt message, brimming with care for the other person, is sure to loosen the listeners’ tear ducts.

If I Had Never Met You ~Summer Snow Winter Flower~Aimer

Aimer - Had I Not Met You ~Summer Snow, Winter Flower~

A deeply heartrending song whose lyrics overflow with lingering attachment.

You can’t help but be moved by words that lay bare such longing.

The feelings of deep, deep affection and the inability to ever forget come through so vividly it almost hurts.

I’m sure everyone has experienced something like this, and it will resonate with your own memories and move you.

Her singing voice heightens the poignancy even more.

Unrequited loveAimer

Aimer “Catouomoi” MUSIC VIDEO

Aimer has a distinctive singing voice that captivates listeners.

No matter the song, her voice draws you in—and makes your heart ache.

That bittersweetness is a perfect match for Kataomoi.

The poignancy of her voice resonates with the poignancy of the lyrics.

If you have feelings you want to convey to someone, this song will surely touch your heart; at karaoke, some people might even be moved to tears.