[40s] Karaoke Popularity Rankings by Generation [2025]

Midsummer FruitSouthern All Stars85rank/position

[Full Lyrics Included] Midsummer Fruit – Southern All Stars (monogataru cover)

Since their debut, the five-piece rock band Southern All Stars has continued to be supported by a wide range of listeners as one of the bands that perfectly suit the summer seaside.

Chosen as the theme song for the film Inamura Jane, directed by the band’s vocalist Keisuke Kuwata, this track evokes the passing scenes of summer with a sentimental atmosphere that really tugs at the heart.

The melody isn’t particularly difficult, but if you pay attention to Kuwata’s signature slightly laid-back vocal phrasing, you’ll get closer to the original vibe.

It’s a karaoke song we hope will be sung not only by those in their 40s—who grew up with it—but also by younger generations.

Point of No ReturnCHEMISTRY meets S.O.S.86rank/position

CHEMISTRY – Point of No Return [PV] Chemistry

Another must-sing song is “Point of No Return” by CHEMISTRY, a male duo that represents the Heisei era.

The song’s selling point is, without a doubt, its harmonies.

If possible, I recommend splitting Dochin’s and Kawabata’s parts and singing it as a duo.

Since it starts right from the chorus, it’s best to lift the energy from the very beginning.

For the part that feels like “a guy who’s lost and heartbroken,” please sing gently.

Speaking of CHEMISTRY, it brings back memories of TV Tokyo’s popular show ASAYAN.

I bet many of you watched it.

Ami Suzuki, Morning Musume, Chizuru Ikewaki, Daisuke Asakura, and others all came from that show.

It’s a highly recommended song that’s full of memories in every way.

A Little Love SongMONGOL80087rank/position

MONGOL800 / A Small Love Song

A straightforward love song by MONGOL800, a rock band from Okinawa.

Its pure lyrics remind us just how precious the people close to us truly are, touching the hearts of many.

Released in September 2001 and included on the album MESSAGE, which sold over 2.

8 million copies, the song spent 14 consecutive weeks at No.

2 on the Oricon karaoke chart.

Its enduring popularity is evident in its use as the ending theme for the TV anime Teasing Master Takagi-san and as a motif for a 2019 film.

Put it on as driving music, and you’ll find yourself singing along under the blue sky.

JupiterAyaka Hirahara88rank/position

[Ayaka Hirahara] 'Jupiter' MV Full Ver.

Ayaka Hirahara’s debut song presents a grand classical masterpiece theme with approachable lyrics and a brilliant arrangement.

Its beautiful melody and crystal-clear vocals offer deep comfort to those facing loneliness or anxiety, making it a moving piece.

Since its release in December 2003, it has remained a long-selling favorite and was also used as an insert song in the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3-B.” With Masayuki Sakamoto’s elegant arrangement and Hirahara’s expressive singing, the track is crafted to be easy and pleasant for anyone to sing.

Why not try it at karaoke when you want to cherish bonds with friends or need the courage to believe in yourself?

From the depths of the heart to the water planetHiroko Moriguchi89rank/position

From the depths of the heart to the water planet

Singer Hiroko Moriguchi, known as a leading figure among the original “baradoru” (variety-idol) talents and still an indispensable presence on variety shows today.

Her debut single as an idol singer, “Mizu no Hoshi e Ai wo Komete,” was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam.

If a woman in her 40s sings it, it’s sure to hype up men of the same generation, so it’s a great pick for karaoke.

There’s also an arranged version included on the 2019 album GUNDAM SONG COVERS, making it a karaoke song that’s fun to compare across versions.

planetariumAi Otsuka90rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

Ai Otsuka’s music, woven from deep sorrow and vivid memories, beautifully sublimates the scars of heartbreak.

The aching feelings of love and the sense of loss are reflected in lyrics that sparkle like the stars in the night sky, and they will strike listeners to the core.

Released in September 2005, this work drew major attention, including being chosen as the image song for the drama “Boys Over Flowers.” While it stays close to the pain of a broken heart, it’s a song that also gives you the courage to look forward and start walking again.

Take your time to listen closely to the voice and words that seep into your heart.

You’ll surely feel the strength to take a new step forward.

GibbsRingo Sheena91rank/position

Shiina Ringo – Gibbs

This work was woven by Ringo Sheena in her youthful days at seventeen.

It deftly portrays the feelings of a narrator whose lover wants to take photos while she resists the act, as well as her complicated thoughts about the word “absolute,” capturing the fundamental anxieties and conflicts surrounding love.

Released in January 2000, it drew attention as an advance single for the album “Shōso Strip” and won the Excellence Award at the 42nd Japan Record Awards that same year.

While melodic, its powerful, rock-based sound stands apart from ballads that whisper of love in hushed tones.

It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who continues to explore the shape of love.