[50s] Karaoke Songs That Get the Crowd Going: 2025 Rankings

cherrySpitz85rank/position

Spitz / Cherry

This is Spitz’s 13th single, released in April 1996.

Even though it had no tie-in at the time of release, it sold over 1.

6 million copies—truly another iconic J-pop song of the Heisei era! The melody is very easy to remember and sing, so be sure to learn it and enjoy singing it.

Just take care not to make your singing feel too heavy.

Not just this song, but many tracks released from the late ’90s to the early 2000s were made with karaoke in mind, making that era a treasure trove of karaoke-friendly songs.

It’s highly recommended to search for songs from that angle!

Stars on EarthMiyuki Nakajima86rank/position

Stars on the Ground / Miyuki Nakajima [Official]

As a grand anthem casting light on an era without hope, the feelings Miyuki Nakajima delivered to people’s hearts continue to shine.

She wove together a message that resonates deeply, portraying the struggles of unsung heroes buried in everyday life through expressions likening them to stars and celestial bodies.

The powerful rock-infused sound and striking melodic line brilliantly convey a majestic worldview.

Released in July 2000, the song was chosen as the theme for NHK’s “Project X: Challengers,” and it was etched into the memories of many along with the program.

During the 2002 Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it was performed via a live broadcast from the Kurobe Dam, achieving the highest singer-specific rating of the program.

It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking energy for tomorrow or wishing to cheer on the efforts of those around them.

At all times.Noriyuki Makihara87rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “No Matter What” (Music Video) [3rd Single] (1991) Noriyuki Makihara/donnatokimo [No. 1]

Makihara Noriyuki’s timeless song “Donna Toki mo.” captivates with the beauty of its moving Japanese lyrics and its approachable melody.

The lyrics use direct wording that many people can relate to, and they’ve encouraged countless listeners.

It’s also a karaoke favorite across generations, thanks to its simplicity and universal message.

Through this classic that highlights Makihara Noriyuki’s talent, we can feel grateful for the happiness we have now and renew our motivation for challenges ahead.

Plastic LoveMariya Takeuchi88rank/position

Mariya Takeuchi – Plastic Love (Official Music Video)

The songs by Mariya Takeuchi included on the 1984 album VARIETY have captivated many listeners with their smooth, sophisticated sound and lyrics that portray the complex emotions between lovers.

Takeuchi herself wrote and composed the songs, while the arrangements were handled by Tatsuro Yamashita.

The fusion of their talents created a milestone in the Japanese pop music scene.

Even many years after its release, the work has been rediscovered by younger generations through platforms like YouTube, sparking the city pop boom.

SAY YESCHAGE and ASKA89rank/position

[MV] SAY YES / CHAGE and ASKA

CHAGE and ASKA is a music duo formed by two high school classmates, although ASKA announced his departure in 2021.

Their 27th single, SAY YES, known as the theme song for the TV drama “The 101st Proposal,” became a massive hit, achieving double million sales thanks in part to the show’s popularity.

Its ethereal ensemble, rich with depth, still brings scenes from the drama to mind even today.

It’s an easy song to sing at karaoke, but if possible, we hope you’ll also try the beautiful harmonies—it’s an enduring ballad classic.

Midnight Door ~ Stay With MeMiki Matsubara90rank/position

"Midnight Door ~ Stay With Me" / Miki Matsubara Official Lyric Video

This work stands out for its light rhythm and wistful melody.

Released in 1979, Miki Matsubara’s debut single reached No.

28 on the Oricon charts and sold around 100,000 copies.

Known as a representative city pop song, it has gained increasing popularity overseas in recent years.

The lyrics, poignantly portraying lost love, offer a chance to reflect on past romances.

Although it wasn’t tied in with any films or TV dramas, it’s a track you can enjoy along with nostalgic memories.

It’s recommended both for livening up a karaoke session and for looking back on cherished moments with someone special.

Summer Days of 1993class91rank/position

Summer Days of 1993

A love song that beautifully blends a refreshing sense of the season with sweet feelings of romance, resonating deep in the heart.

Released by class in April 1993, this piece gently describes a man’s budding love for a longtime female friend, set against summer scenery.

From a male perspective, the nascent feelings by the water and the fresh surprises, paired with a calm melodic line, create an atmosphere that evokes nostalgic memories.

Featured on the album “Mellow Prism,” it was used as the theme song for Saison Card commercials and as the opening theme for the drama “Kimi to Itsumademo.” It’s a recommended track for those who want to renew their feelings for someone special with the arrival of a refreshing season, or simply spend time in a tranquil state of mind.