Karaoke Ranking of Popular Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi Songs [2025]

Soap bubbleTsuyoshi Nagabuchi8rank/position

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi / Shabondama (1991)

The 24th single “Shabondama,” which benefited from the popularity of the tie-in TV drama of the same name, became a million-seller.

The lyrical guitar riff in the intro and the delicate acoustic guitar tones give the entire song a sense of melancholy.

With a low key, a narrow vocal range, and minimal melodic movement, it’s an easy challenge even for those who aren’t confident singers.

The lyrics evoke the image of someone struggling yet striving to move forward, making it an emotional number that will likely captivate listeners even at karaoke.

JunkoTsuyoshi Nagabuchi9rank/position

Junko

“Junko” is one of the all-time classics that defined Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s early career.

Released as a single in 1980, it became a massive hit, topping the Oricon charts for eight consecutive weeks.

The lyrics, which unfold as a man’s lovelorn grudge from start to finish—both lonely and somehow a bit comical—paired with a wistful melody, speak to Nagabuchi’s outstanding talent as a singer-songwriter.

While the melody has a folky feel, note that the sound arrangement bounces with a funk-like groove.

As long as you manage your breath properly all the way up to the high notes in the chorus, it shouldn’t be overly difficult to sing.

It’s a surefire karaoke staple, so master it and get the crowd going!

Captain of the ShipTsuyoshi Nagabuchi10rank/position

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi Captain of the Ship ① All Night Live in Sakurajima

Here’s one I want you to tackle with full spirit and pour your soul into.

It’s a song by Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi, a singer-songwriter from Kagoshima, and the title track of his 14th album released in 1993.

The vocals, sound, and lyrics hurl fighting spirit right at you, setting your heart ablaze.

It runs over 13 minutes, but perhaps because of its sheer intensity, it strangely feels short.

When Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi fans get together, karaoke practically turns into a live concert!

Mother’s SongTsuyoshi Nagabuchi11rank/position

Kaachan No Uta

This is a warm, gentle song that looks back on the image of a mother who was always a source of strength while struggling after moving to Tokyo.

It is said to be based on Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s own experiences, and was included on the 2017 album “BLACK TRAIN.” The simple acoustic guitar and vocal style conveys the desire to deliver the lyrics straight and true.

The gentle, conversational tempo makes it easy to sing, and it may also be important to consider how to infuse the performance with one’s own feelings toward one’s mother.

oneTsuyoshi Nagabuchi12rank/position

Hitotsu

Many people still remember Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi singing “Hitotsu” from Kadonowaki Elementary School in Ishinomaki—an area affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake—during the 62nd NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen broadcast on December 31, 2011.

The following February, it was released as his 45th single.

The piano accompaniment and solemn strings, combined with Nagabuchi’s gentle yet powerful vocals and melody, are enough to bring tears to your eyes.

The song spans a wide vocal range and the chorus includes fairly high notes, so it can be somewhat challenging overall to sing at karaoke.

However, the melody itself is simple and easy to follow.

Because it’s a straightforward ballad that leaves little room to hide, prioritize singing it with heartfelt emotion.

My Very Own Merry ChristmasTsuyoshi Nagabuchi13rank/position

My Very Own Merry Christmas

A rare Christmas song for Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi.

Included on the album HEAVY GAUGE released in June 1983, this track is a simple yet heartwarming hidden gem.

It marks an important period when he was transitioning from a delicate folk singer to his trademark raspy, passionate vocal style.

The lyrics, filled with kindness, depict the warmth of family and the forging of new bonds.

When singing it at karaoke, try delivering it gently, as if telling memories to a child.

It’s recommended for those who want to feel the happiness of spending Christmas night with someone special.

Toward TomorrowTsuyoshi Nagabuchi14rank/position

Toward Tomorrow

It’s a song that conveys a strong message of support, encouraging you to believe in yourself and keep moving forward.

Originally included on the 1985 album “HUNGRY,” it was later featured on the self-cover album “NEVER CHANGE.” The lyrics, carried by a thick, full-band sound, emphasize the importance of continuing to run, powerfully stirring the hope within your heart.

It’s also quite singable thanks to its tempo and distinctive vocal style; if you aim for a laid-back, almost brusque delivery, you can capture the song’s vibe without worrying too much about precise pitch.