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

Ah, heartlessAnn Lewis36rank/position

Ah, heartless

Ann Lewis is a rock singer whose raw vocals earned her strong support not only from women but also from men.

She has many classic songs, but in particular, “Aa Mujō” really showcases her rough, gritty voice.

The vocal range is slightly broad for an Ann Lewis song at about mid1 G to hi C, but compared with typical songs, it’s actually on the narrower side.

However, because the song is characterized by shout-style singing, it has a distinctive difficulty that’s different from a standard hi C.

Even so, the vocal line’s contour is relatively gentle for rock, so overall it’s a song that’s fairly easy to sing.

It’s fantastic for getting the crowd excited, so consider adding it to your repertoire.

TRUE LOVEFumiya Fujii37rank/position

TRUE LOVE / Fumiya Fujii

Released in 1993 as Fumiya Fujii’s solo debut single, this song was chosen as the theme for the Fuji TV drama Asunaro Hakusho and became a massive hit.

Written and composed by Fujii himself, it features lyrics that poignantly express a bittersweet love and a melody that resonates deeply.

Boosted by the drama’s popularity, it sold over two million copies.

It has long been cherished as a wedding classic and is also a great pick when you want to liven up a karaoke session or reminisce about the past.

CheersTsuyoshi Nagabuchi38rank/position

Cheers

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi has captured the hearts of many with his overwhelming vocal prowess and passionate performances.

Featured on his 1980 album “Kampai,” this song has long been loved as an anthem cheering on those embarking on a new chapter in life.

Its powerful vocals and deeply moving lyrics convey a comforting warmth that seems to give listeners a gentle push forward.

The single version re-recorded in 1988 topped The Best Ten for three consecutive weeks.

It has since become a staple for life’s milestones, such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.

Inspiring the belief that any hardship can be overcome, this piece is recommended not only for those on the verge of a fresh start, but also for anyone feeling uncertain about their path in life.

I’m smitten with you.Yellow Magic Orchestra39rank/position

Yellow Magic Orchestra – “Kimi Ni Mune Kyun“ (Official Music Video)

Yellow Magic Orchestra, a group that gained popularity with their innovative electronic music.

This song, “Kimi ni, Mune Kyun,” was composed from the perspective of the members—who were providing hit numbers to idols at the time—thinking, “If we can keep churning out idol hits, then in theory we could also become popular as ‘middle-aged idols.

’” As a result, it’s crafted with a catchy, somewhat cute melody.

With a narrow vocal range and a relatively even vocal line, it’s also a very easy song to sing.

YAH YAH YAHCHAGE and ASKA40rank/position

[MV] YAH YAH YAH / CHAGE and ASKA

Known colloquially as “Chage and Aska,” the music duo CHAGE and ASKA gained popularity for their nostalgic songs and distinctive harmonies.

This is their 31st single.

The song was used as the theme for the TV drama “If You Look Back, He’s There,” and was released as a double A-side single together with “Yume no Bannin.” Its high-energy arrangement and straightforward message make it a perfect choice for men in their 50s who often experience work-related stress.

It’s a refreshing number you’ll want to belt out with friends at karaoke.

The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE41rank/position

DREAMS COME TRUE – Future Prediction Map II ~VERSION '07~ (from Live from DWL 2015 Live Ver.)

Released in 1989, this work is one of DREAMS COME TRUE’s most iconic songs.

For women in their 50s who spent their student years with it, it’s surely a track filled with special memories.

Its lyrics, portraying deep affection, never fade despite the passage of time.

Listening to this song will bring back nostalgic scenes from the past.

Beloved at karaoke as well, its conversational melody continues to comfort many and is still sung today.

It also saw wide media use, including being featured as a SONY commercial song in 1993.

Do whatever the hell you want.Kenji Sawada42rank/position

Kenji Sawada – Do As You Please (1977 TMF)

A singer known by the nickname “Julie,” Kenji Sawada made his solo debut after his work with The Tigers and PYG, and this is his 19th single.

With wistful lyrics and melody and a cool, 8-beat rock flavor, it’s recognized as one of his signature songs.

For men in their fifties who likely spent their youth around the time of its release, it’s a number that’s both easy to sing and sure to be a hit at karaoke.

It’s a rock tune that stirs up nostalgia—one you’ll want to sing while tossing your hat as part of the performance.