Sad songs I want to sing at karaoke

Lingering SnowNEW!dolphin

Dolphin [Iruka] / Nagori-yuki [Lingering Snow] (Single Version) Official Audio with translation

Iruka’s song “Nagori Yuki,” long cherished as a classic in Japan.

Released in 1974, it’s rooted in the then-popular folk music genre, and while it’s moving, it retains a certain folk-like poignancy.

It was originally a Kaguyahime song, but many people are probably more familiar with Iruka’s cover.

The song’s vocal range is relatively narrow, from mid1 D to mid2 G.

With the highest note at mid2 G, few should find it difficult to sing in the original key.

The A verse is somewhat spoken in style, so there are slightly fewer breakpoints, but as long as you don’t push your voice too hard, it shouldn’t be a problem.

Tears Flowing EndlesslyRimi Natsukawa

Rimi Natsukawa “Nada Sousou” Music Video

This is a signature song by Rimi Natsukawa, whose title in the Okinawan dialect means “tears falling in drops.” The lyricist’s personal feelings for a brother who passed away at a young age may resonate with listeners’ own memories of someone dear to them.

Woven by Natsukawa’s crystal-clear voice, the yearning for someone you can no longer meet evokes the profound sorrow of people torn apart by the tragedies of war and reminds us of the preciousness of peace.

Originally written in 1998 for Ryoko Moriyama, the song became a major hit with Natsukawa’s 2001 cover, which stayed on the Oricon charts for 157 weeks.

In 2006, a film inspired by the song was also released.

balladKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

A love ballad from Ketsumeishi that offers a different flavor from their usual cheerful image.

It’s a tear-jerker that gently yet poignantly sings of unfulfilled feelings for someone special, carried by a tender, aching melody.

With rap kept to a minimum and piano and strings that seep into the heart, this piece also surprised longtime fans as a bold departure.

Released in January 2011 as one half of a double A-side single and included on the classic album Ketsunopolis 7, it was also used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s information program Sukkiri!!.

If you sing it softly at karaoke—where upbeat tracks usually steal the show—its contrast will draw everyone in.

Why not showcase a new side of yourself with this hidden gem?

wedgeHanako Oku

Kusabi (Wedge) by Hanako Oku

A signature ballad by Hanako Oku that depicts undying feelings for someone you can’t forget.

The delicate piano tones express the unfillable hollow and sense of loss after parting from a lover.

Hanako Oku’s crystal-clear voice gently sinks into the heart, doesn’t it? Sung since her indie days, this piece was released as a 10th-anniversary single in July 2015 and is also included on the album Prism.

Despite having no tie-ins, it resonated online and became a hidden gem, amassing a total of 15 million video views.

It’s a heartbreak song, but perfect for creating a moving, mellow atmosphere.

With few key changes and easy emotional delivery, why not choose it as a song to touch the heart of someone you care about?

Blue amberback number

back number – Blue Amber [Theme song for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV Monday 10 p.m. drama 'From the Day I Took You']

This back number song gives you such an indescribable feeling, doesn’t it? I think Iyori Shimizu is a genius at creating a sense of heartbreak.

The harmonies in this track are mostly in the chorus.

It’s basically an upper harmony, but the way the ends of phrases drop an octave and other clever choices in the harmonizing really amplify the bittersweet vibe.

In the final chorus, there’s a key change and the pitch goes up, so I think it’s good to sing a bit louder in falsetto so you don’t get overshadowed by the lead vocal.

A lot of people sing back number, so be sure to add these harmonies to your repertoire!

I can't stop this sadnessTsubaki Factory

Tsubaki Factory “Sorrow Won’t Stop” Promotion Edit

This emotionally rich cover song captures the ache of heartbreak.

Tsubaki Factory brings fresh expression to one of Anri’s finest gems.

Preserving the original’s poignant sorrow, each member’s voice delicately portrays the helplessness of unrequited love.

The track is included on the single “My Days for You / Kanashimi ga Tomaranai,” released in June 2025.

It also serves as Shiori Yagi’s graduation single and reached No.

2 on the Oricon Daily chart.

How about listening on a night when you want something to keep you company in your melancholy?

tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

It’s a painfully honest story song that realistically portrays heartbreak.

Over more than six minutes, post-breakup emotions are carefully traced alongside the gentle tones of an acoustic guitar.

A pack of cigarettes left behind by an ex becomes the trigger for recalling the time they spent together, and looking back, only regret remains—such a bittersweet inner landscape is woven through Koresawa’s delicate vocals.

Released in March 2017, just before her major-label debut, this piece can be considered a culmination of her work.

It’s also included on the album “Korekara,” where it continues to be loved.

The melodious, straightforward lyrics are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

On nights when you want to face your own feelings, try singing it at karaoke.