[Women] Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers Ranking [2025]

Don't give upZARD64rank/position

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

ZARD is an indispensable presence in the Japanese music scene of the ’90s, and for many women in their 40s today, their songs undoubtedly evoke the soundtracks of youth.

The late Izumi Sakai’s clear vocals and heartfelt lyrics never lose their luster, and they’re still hugely popular at karaoke.

“Makenaide” is one of ZARD’s most famous songs, a true classic with nationwide acclaim.

While the pitch is slightly on the higher side, it’s generally average overall, and the melody is straightforward without large leaps in range, making it a good candidate for high karaoke scores.

Aim to articulate each word of the lyrics clearly, and sing the chorus with crisp, powerful delivery!

Crossing Amagi PassSayuri Ishikawa65rank/position

Crossing Amagi — Sayuri Ishikawa

This song by Sayuri Ishikawa has long been cherished as a timeless masterpiece that stirs the heart time and again.

Released in July 1986, it has left a deep imprint on many people, even serving as the final performance at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen four times.

The lyrics vividly portray a woman tormented by her relationship with the one she loves, striking a powerful chord with listeners.

Sing it at karaoke, and the entire venue is sure to be moved.

The next time you gather with friends, why not belt out this Showa-era classic and enjoy a wonderful time together?

LOVE 2000hitomi66rank/position

hitomi / LOVE 2000

A song that was a big hit in the early 2000s, its lyrics exploring the essence of love are particularly striking.

Featuring Hitomi’s expansive vocals and a powerful melodic line, the track was also used as the image song for Nippon TV’s “Geki-Kukan Pro Yakyu 2000.” Included on the album “LOVE LIFE,” it has continued to be loved over the years, later appearing on best-of compilations as well.

It’s also known that Naoko Takahashi, the women’s marathon gold medalist at the Sydney Olympics, loved listening to it.

In karaoke, singing it with strength can be refreshing, and amid days busy with work or housework, it can be a chance to reaffirm your love for yourself and those important to you.

Surely more than anyone else in the worldMiho Nakayama67rank/position

Miho Nakayama / “Surely More Than Anyone in the World” MIHO NAKAYAMA CONCERT TOUR ’93 On My Mind

A soul-stirring duet by Miho Nakayama and WANDS, this 1992 classic strikes straight to the heart.

The lyrics, expressing deep feelings for a loved one, are beautifully matched by Miho’s clear, luminous vocals and WANDS’ powerful chorus.

It became a hot topic as the theme song for a Fuji TV drama and was a runaway hit, surpassing one million copies sold just 20 days after release.

It also won a Best 5 Single Award at the 7th Japan Gold Disc Awards.

Centered on themes of profound love and bonds, this song is perfect for moments when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special or bask in warm nostalgia.

Sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to bring the room together in excitement!

Slow motionAkina Nakamori68rank/position

[Official] Akina Nakamori 'Slow Motion (from “Hajimemashite”)' [1st Single (Released May 1, 1982)] Akina Nakamori / Slow Motion

A gem of a love song that portrays a fateful encounter on the beach as if time itself had stopped.

Its delicate lyrics and harmonious melody leave a striking impression, letting the protagonist’s pounding heartbeat seep into the listener’s own.

Released in May 1982 as Akina Nakamori’s debut single and included on the album “Prologue ,” the song is elevated by Nakamori’s vocals, which blend innocence with allure.

It’s a track perfect for the season of refreshing spring breezes, and anyone who has ever felt the thrill of budding romance is sure to relate.

Why not surrender to the pleasant early-summer wind and bask in those bittersweet memories?

DiamondsPRINCESS PRINCESS69rank/position

[MV] Diamonds / Misaki Aono

Princess Princess, a trailblazing all-girl band.

“Diamonds” was their seventh single, released in 1989, and it became a million seller.

It turned into their biggest hit and is a familiar tune thanks to being featured in numerous commercials.

It’s a breezy, poppy song with a feel-good melody that makes your body move naturally.

I’d love to see women in their 40s sing it—always shining like diamonds no matter their age! Invite your friends and let’s all have a great time together.

Blue Coral ReefSeiko Matsuda70rank/position

Seiko Matsuda “Blue Coral Reef” (from Seikoland ~ Budokan Live ’83)

Known as one of Seiko Matsuda’s signature songs, this piece is a captivating track that depicts the beauty of a tropical paradise and the exhilaration of love.

Her translucent vocals and the refreshing melody vividly evoke images of blue seas and white sandy beaches.

Released in July 1980, it was also used in a Glico ice cream commercial and became a major hit.

When singing it at karaoke, imagining yourself strolling along a tropical beach can make it even more enjoyable.

It’s a perfect choice for a girls’ night out or when you want to blow off some steam.