[50s] Karaoke Popularity Rankings by Generation [2025]

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Yo Hitoto78rank/position

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

This is the fifth single by Yo Hitoto, a female singer from Taiwan, released in February 2004.

Although the song’s ballad-like tone and lyrics might not suggest it, it is said to have been inspired by the September 11 attacks in the United States.

As mentioned, it’s a ballad, so it’s not the kind of song that will get everyone hyped up at karaoke.

However, perhaps only a “mature woman” can truly capture the mood of this deeply layered piece.

Please enjoy singing it with rich emotion.

I believe the way you shape the sound of each word in the lyrics and how you handle the spaces between phrases are crucial when performing this song, so I recommend studying the original track carefully in advance if possible.

Dancing HeroYoko Oginome79rank/position

Yoko Oginome / Dancing Hero (Eat You Up) MV [New Dance Ver.]

Triggered by the performance of the Tomioka High School dance club, Yoko Oginome’s classic “Dancing Hero” has become known to today’s youth.

It’s one of the signature songs of the bubble-era music scene, wrapped throughout in an irresistibly upbeat melody.

Because it’s dance music, many people might feel it’s difficult, but if you listen closely to the vocal line, you’ll find the melody is actually quite simple.

Not only is the vocal line easy to sing even for those who struggle with pitch, but the brisk tempo also makes it easier to smooth over little mistakes—another welcome plus, don’t you think?

Time goes byEvery Little Thing80rank/position

「Time goes by」MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

When it comes to karaoke with coworkers or friends, a great song for women in their 50s to sing is “Time goes by.” Released in 1998 by the musical duo Every Little Thing, it’s also known as one of their signature tracks.

It was used as the theme song for the drama Sweet Marriage, so some people may feel nostalgic hearing it.

The key is to pair its beautiful, piano-driven melody with a calm delivery in the first verse, then gradually build vocal power and momentum from the pre-chorus into the chorus.

Since the song unfolds at a slow tempo, it’s easy to sing even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.

It’s been covered by many artists across eras, making it a great choice for karaoke gatherings with a wide range of ages.

Playback Part 2Momoe Yamaguchi81rank/position

Momoe Yamaguchi Playback Part 2

Momoe Yamaguchi’s classic “Playback Part 2,” which gained nationwide popularity with its novel setting at a traffic accident scene.

While the song features a somewhat unconventional structure, including bold break points, it boasts exceptional singability thanks to its very narrow range of mid2 A# to Hi A#.

The tricky part is the section that enters the chorus after the late-stage break point, so be sure to count the beats carefully before you come in.

It’s a huge hit at karaoke, so definitely consider adding it to your repertoire.

rainChisato Moritaka82rank/position

Ame

Chisato Moritaka has left behind many classic songs as an idol.

She’s also well known for having many easy-to-sing tracks thanks to her vocal timbre and singing ability.

Among her works, the one I especially recommend for women in their 50s as an easy song to sing is “Ame” (Rain).

It was her 11th single and enjoyed nationwide popularity.

The key reason this song is so singable is its narrow vocal range.

Since Chisato Moritaka herself isn’t a singer with an especially wide range, there are no high notes in the verses, the pre-chorus, or the chorus.

On top of that, it’s built on a relaxed, easy-to-grasp rhythm, which makes it easier to catch the cue for the entrance.

Definitely give it a try.

Make my heart raceMiho Nakayama83rank/position

Make my heart race

For men in their 50s, wouldn’t it be fair to say that Miho Nakayama is an exceptionally catchy idol? Back then, even in her teens, many people were captivated by her vocals and looks, which exuded remarkable allure.

Among Miho Nakayama’s songs, the one I especially recommend for getting the crowd going and being easy to sing is “WAKU WAKU Sasete.” Blending synth-pop with kayōkyoku (Japanese pop), it’s composed with a fairly narrow vocal range of mid2 A# to hi C#.

The vocal line doesn’t fluctuate much, making it overall quite an easy song to sing.

However, since the tempo is fairly fast at BPM 136, it’s important to get a solid feel for the tempo in advance.

Tears aren't just for show.Akina Nakamori84rank/position

Tears Aren’t Just for Show – Akina Nakamori (Showa 60 / 1985)

Akina Nakamori’s number captivated listeners with a voice exuding a mature allure that’s hard to believe came from someone just shy of 20 at the time of release! The lyrics and music were written by singer-songwriter Yosui Inoue.

The melody is distinctive—so singable that just listening makes you want to join in, and it feels exhilarating when you do.