Lovely karaoke song

[2025] Smooth sailing at karaoke and work! Safe, fail-proof songs that won’t miss when singing karaoke with your boss or at business entertainment

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Accompanist / Piano InstructorYuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.

Unlike karaoke with friends of a similar age or close coworkers, when it comes to karaoke as a second round after client dinners or drinks with bosses who are one or two generations older, you can’t help but be careful with your song choices.

Many new professionals are probably wondering what songs they should sing.

In this article, we introduce foolproof karaoke picks: timeless classics loved across generations—centered on the hit songs from your bosses’ youth—as well as recent buzzworthy tracks widely known even in mainstream households.

We’ve also selected Showa–Heisei era songs familiar to younger people via TikTok and more, so you’re sure to find something you can sing!

[2025] Smooth sailing at karaoke and work! Safe, reliable songs that won't miss in karaoke with your boss or clients (31–40)

Don't give upZARD

Don't give up (What a beautiful memory ~forever you~)

Don't Give Up, ZARD

A classic motivational song featuring Izumi Sakai’s powerful yet transparent vocals that leave a strong impression.

It’s the kind of sound that everyone’s heard at least once—the kind that makes courage well up from deep inside and becomes irresistibly addictive.

Released in January 1993, this track became ZARD’s first million seller.

It’s been used in a variety of settings and continues to give people a push forward.

It’s also perfect to sing at company gatherings with your boss or clients.

The lyrics resonate across generations and are sure to lighten the mood.

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HELLOMasaharu Fukuyama

Masaharu Fukuyama – HELLO (Full ver.)

HELLO Masaharu Fukuyama

It’s a classic winter song by a singer-songwriter everyone knows! It captures the fluttering feelings of budding love through brilliant lyrics and a nostalgic melody.

Many in the younger generation have probably heard the chorus.

Released in 1995, it achieved great success, including winning Best Theme Song at the Japanese Drama Academy Awards.

It’s easy and pleasant to sing, so why not try it at a karaoke session with friends in their 40s, or even at the company year-end party? Listening to Fukuyama’s sweet vocals will make you want to dash out under the blue sky.

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A Little Love SongMONGOL800

MONGOL800 / A Small Love Song

A Small Love Song MONGOL800

It’s a song that captures a pure moment of youth, with refreshing, sincere emotions that resonate deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which depict feelings for a distant lover against the vast backdrop of the universe, seep into the heart.

Included on the album MESSAGE, released in September 2001, it has continued to be loved by many for a long time.

In 2019, it was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name, drawing renewed attention.

It’s a perfect choice for new or young employees to sing at karaoke.

With a melody beloved across generations, you can sing it with confidence even in the presence of supervisors or clients.

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Promise of SunflowersMotohiro Hata

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

Himawari no Yakusoku by Motohiro Hata

A signature song by Motohiro Hata, known for its heartwarming melody and lyrics that portray deep friendship.

Released in August 2014 as the theme song for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon,” it captured the hearts of many.

With lyrics that convey straightforward kindness like a sunflower and a hopeful belief in reunion even when apart, it’s sure to resonate with listeners.

This work enjoyed remarkable popularity, including holding the No.

1 spot on Japan’s overall iTunes chart for an extended period.

It’s a song that can win cross-generational support if you sing it at karaoke with your boss or clients.

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rainbowMasaki Suda

Masaki Suda 'Niji' (Rainbow)

Rainbow Suda Masaki

With its gentle vocals and heartwarming lyrics, this can be considered one of Masaki Suda’s signature songs.

The lyrics, which straightforwardly express everyday happiness and gratitude, resonate with many listeners.

Released in November 2020, it was also used as the theme song for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon 2.

It ranked high on the Billboard Japan charts, and its streaming plays surpassed 100 million, generating significant buzz.

Its soft vocal tone and friendly melody make it easy to sing at karaoke, and it’s a safe choice even for company gatherings with bosses or clients.

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[2025] Smooth sailing at karaoke and work! Safe, crowd-pleasing songs that won't miss for karaoke with your boss or clients (41–50)

loveGen Hoshino

Gen Hoshino – Koi (Official Video)

Love Hoshino Gen

This song is notable for its catchy, refreshing melody and rhythmic lyrics.

Released in October 2016 and a major hit as a TV drama theme, it’s beloved across generations as one of Gen Hoshino’s signature tracks.

With its dance-music vibe, it’s perfect for livening up a karaoke session.

Positively portraying the diversity of love while expressing the strength that love holds, it’s a feel-good choice you can comfortably pick even at company gatherings or business dinners.

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Flower of loveAimyon

Aimyon – Flower of Love [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Flower of Love Aimyon

If it’s a TV drama theme song, it’s widely known across generations, so it’s easy to get everyone excited.

Among them, I recommend Aimyon’s “Ai no Hana.” It was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Ranman.” The fact that the show itself is supported by a broad range of age groups is another plus.

Also, since it’s a relaxed ballad, it’s easy to sing, and it’s perfect for those who feel shy about intense love songs.

At the same time, it has parts where you can sing powerfully, which makes for some great moments to amp up the energy.

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