Recommended ballads for men at karaoke: deliver moving performances with timeless songs that touch the heart.

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.

When it comes to karaoke classics, ballads are a must.

Especially ballads that express a man’s emotions—they’re filled with lyrics anyone can relate to.

From the pain of heartbreak and feelings for someone special, to the resolve you find at life’s crossroads.

We’re here to introduce you to timeless songs that will move your heart.

From tracks you want that special someone to hear, to the one song you want to show off at karaoke, we’ll be sharing male vocal ballads that will resonate with you.

Recommended ballads for men (81–90)

A melody instead of a bouquetShota Shimizu

Shota Shimizu 'A Melody Instead of a Bouquet' MV (Full Size)

Melodies Instead of a Bouquet by Shota Shimizu

This song by singer-songwriter Shota Shimizu is a famous ballad that drew attention when he performed it on THE FIRST TAKE in 2021.

The lyrics straightforwardly express love for someone special, and the title “A Melody Instead of a Bouquet” is truly wonderful, isn’t it? The melody line has a familiar quality that evokes a touch of nostalgia, and it’s sure to feel great to belt out at karaoke!

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PerfumeEito

Perfume / Eito (Official Music Video)

Eito - Perfume

2020 saw a string of internet-born hit songs, and kicking it all off was this track by Eito.

Although it was originally released in 2019, the number of users uploading videos on TikTok using the song surged in 2020, propelling it to massive popularity.

It’s a ballad where acoustic guitar accompaniment pairs with a simple, unadorned vocal, and above all, its uniquely distinctive and highly catchy melody line sticks in your head after just one listen, which won the hearts of many listeners.

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SquallMasaharu Fukuyama

Masaharu Fukuyama – Squall (WE’RE BROS. TOUR 2014 in ASIA)

Squall by Masaharu Fukuyama

This song is a ballad released in 1999 by singer-songwriter Masaharu Fukuyama.

Set in summer, its lyrics are written from a woman’s perspective.

The gentle melody, sung in Fukuyama’s richly sensual voice, is truly beautiful, and many listeners have likely found themselves captivated.

It’s a song that would shine at karaoke, so give it a try! While Fukuyama’s signature low register stands out, there are also high notes in places, making it a bit challenging—but all the more rewarding to sing.

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Promise of SunflowersMotohiro Hata

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

Himawari no Yakusoku by Motohiro Hata

This is a song that was used as the theme for STAND BY ME Doraemon.

Not only in karaoke, but many listeners also covered it on social media.

Just like the relationship between Doraemon and Nobita, it would be nice to give this song as a gift to someone special.

Singing it at karaoke is, of course, great, but how about performing it as an acoustic guitar solo, like Motohiro Hata?

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LemonKenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

Lemon Kenshi Yonezu

Since its release in 2018, this mid-tempo number has been a long-running hit that cemented Kenshi Yonezu’s popularity.

Though it’s a song that depicts deep sorrow with the theme of parting, it continues to captivate listeners’ hearts even now.

Yonezu’s slightly languid vocal style is distinctive; to bring out the mood, the trick is to connect notes smoothly rather than cutting clearly between them.

Try delivering this dramatic, well-known masterpiece with cool confidence.

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Horse and deerKenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu – Horse and Deer

Horse and deer Kenshi Yonezu

Kenshi Yonezu is a singer-songwriter who enjoys immense popularity as a Vocaloid producer, and he garnered nationwide support with the massive success of his 8th single, “Lemon.” His 10th single, “Uma to Shika,” was created as the theme song for the TV drama “No Side Game,” and became a major hit, boosted by its collaboration with the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Though catchy, the melody is also complex, so you might only realize how challenging it is when you actually try singing it.

It’s a recommended ballad for men—one that delivers a heart-stirring message in a key that suits your own vocal range.

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Recommended ballads for men (91–100)

Spot the differenceMasaki Suda

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

Spot the Differences Masaki Suda

It was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Perfect World,” starring Tori Matsuzaka and Mizuki Yamamoto.

The singer is Masaki Suda, who has appeared in numerous dramas and films! The lyrics and composition are by Kenshi Yonezu—an exceptionally star-studded collaboration.

Incidentally, Masaki Suda also appeared in the drama’s final episode! Just like when he’s acting, his straightforward, sincere vocals make this a truly wonderful track.

It’s a popular ballad at karaoke as well.

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