![[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing songs by Chiharu Matsuyama](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/nY0k-2KLV0c/hqdefault.jpg)
[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing songs by Chiharu Matsuyama
Chiharu Matsuyama, a mega-star born in Hokkaido, has given the world many timeless songs.
Younger people may see him as a tough-looking, sharp-tongued character, but his innately pure voice, overwhelming vocal power, and beautiful melodies—sung with soaring high notes that don’t rely on falsetto—paired with Japanese lyrics, resonate with listeners of any generation.
His classic hits are also hugely popular at karaoke, and this time I’ve put together a selection of relatively easy songs to sing.
While it’s difficult to sing exactly like Matsuyama, the simple melodies are easy to learn, and the more you repeat them, the better you’ll get.
I’ve also included some quick tips, so be sure to check them out!
[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing Chiharu Matsuyama songs (1–10)
In the Great Sky and on the Vast EarthChiharu Matsuyama
Evoking the vast landscapes of Hokkaido, this song is a classic that resonates in the heart with Chiharu Matsuyama’s clear vocals.
It was included on the album “Kimi no Tame ni Tsukutta Uta,” released in June 1977, and also gained popularity as part of the soundtrack for the Fuji TV drama “The Ugly Duckling.” Its simple melody and profound lyrics convey the beauty of Japan’s four seasons and offer encouragement to listeners.
It’s also a karaoke favorite, beloved by people of all ages.
While savoring Matsuyama’s emotionally rich singing, this is a track that lets you sink into a forward-looking mood, determined to seize happiness through your own strength amid the grandeur of nature.
youthChiharu Matsuyama
This song looks back on cherished moments from youth—walking alongside a beloved person—and the deep love that existed there.
Its light rhythm and distinctive guitar sound are striking, vividly conveying fresh, youthful scenery.
While it has a breezy feel, the rhythm is calm, so it’s important to relax and sing while truly listening to the sound.
The unique, slightly off-beat phrasing is also a key element that enhances the song’s atmosphere, so focusing on that aspect is highly recommended.
clownChiharu Matsuyama
This song portrays the wish for a loved one to always keep smiling, and the resolve to be a clown-like presence to make that happen.
It was included on the 1978 album “Arukitsuzukeru Toki.” The lively sound—such as the powerful rhythm and overlapping, light guitar parts—evokes a playful, clownish atmosphere.
Because the vocals progress in a conversational manner throughout, it seems important to convey the lyrics clearly.
It’s an easy song to sing with a relaxed feel while keeping the rhythm in mind.
loveChiharu Matsuyama
This song paints a poignant scene of love, expressing a woman’s deep emotions.
Released in 1980 as the eighth single, it features distinctive guitar tones and vocals that resonate with the heart.
It is also included on the albums “Kishōtenketsu II” and “Tabidachi.” With a gentle, unhurried rhythm, the piece carefully depicts the inner feelings of a couple who choose to part ways.
The sound of the harmonica heightens the sense of longing, quietly accompanying the listener’s heart.
The beauty of the lyrics combined with the simplicity of the melody makes it easy to remember, and singing it at karaoke will naturally improve your vocal skills.
Adding emotional expression to your singing will deepen the impact even further, so it comes highly recommended.
Among the seasonsChiharu Matsuyama
This song, which sings of Japan’s nature and life’s journey, became part of Chiharu Matsuyama’s repertoire.
Released in August 1978, it was also chosen as the theme song for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.
It was his fifth single and gained widespread popularity as the jingle for Glico Almond Chocolate.
The gentle tone of the folk guitar and Matsuyama’s powerful vocals resonate deeply.
Through the changing seasons, the lyrics depict life’s transformations and growth, offering listeners courage and hope.
From the shimmering morning sun to birds flying into the distance, the imagery conveys a sense of new beginnings and the resolve to take on fresh challenges.
Silver RainChiharu Matsuyama
This is a masterpiece whose delicate lyrics, overlaying the end of love and loneliness with silver rain, quietly pierce the heart.
Chiharu Matsuyama’s clear voice and overwhelming vocal power convey every ounce of that bittersweet emotion.
Released in June 1977 as the B-side to his second single “KAZAGURUMA,” the song was also included on his debut album of the same year, “Kimi no Tame ni Tsukutta Uta.” Though the melody is simple, Matsuyama’s uniquely expressive singing deeply moves listeners.
It’s also a popular choice for karaoke, so why not give it a try?
The prank of timeChiharu Matsuyama
It’s a song that conveys a sense of loneliness about time slipping away before you realize it.
The guitar tone, with a strong folk-song feel, evokes images of winter’s chill and solitary scenes.
You can also clearly feel the rising intensity of that loneliness in Chiharu Matsuyama’s signature powerful high notes.
Although the sustained high register might make it seem difficult, the melodic range is gentle, so if you lower the key, it should be a song you can sing calmly.