[For people in their 60s] Western songs that get the crowd going at karaoke: Ranking [2025]

I’ve Never Been To MeCharlene36rank/position

Charlene – I’ve Never Been To Me • TopPop

Charlene’s 1977 hit song.

The Japanese title is “Ai wa Kagerō no Yō ni” (“I’ve Never Been to Me”).

Many artists have covered it, but Charlene’s version is probably the most famous.

With its very refreshing sound, it’s a soothing number just to listen to.

A song I’d love to hear sung by someone confident in their vocal ability.

you really got meThe Kinks37rank/position

the kinks- you really got me

A hit number from the British band The Kinks in 1964.

The song has even been hailed as a work that “invented heavy metal,” and it later became a hit again when Van Halen covered it.

The anecdote about the guitar solo—the rumor that Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page played it—has been endlessly repeated from long ago to the present day.

It is said that the guitar solo was actually performed by the Kinks’ guitarist, Dave Davies.

A Woman Needs LoveRay Parker Jr.38rank/position

Ray Parker Jr., Raydio – A Woman Needs Love (Just Like You Do)

In Japan, Ray Parker Jr.

is best known for the theme song to the movie Ghostbusters, but he’s actually a master of cutting-style guitar as well.

“A Woman Needs Love” is a hit from the period when he shifted toward an AOR sound.

If you’ve got confidence in your sexy voice, give it a try!

9 to 5 (Morning Train)Sheena Easton39rank/position

Sheena Easton – 9 to 5 (Morning Train) – Official Music Video

A 1980 single by Scottish singer Sheena Easton.

It’s very famous in Japan as it has been used in TV commercials for chu‑hi and SoftBank mobile phones.

It’s a very lively pop number, perfect for 80s Western music fans to enjoy and get excited together.

Can’t take my eyes off youBoys Town Gang40rank/position

Boys Town Gang – Can’t take my eyes off you

This number, widely loved across generations under the Japanese title “Kimi no Hitomi ni Koishiteru,” is especially famous in the disco-style cover version by Boys Town Gang from 1982.

It’s a poppy, melodic tune that makes you want to start dancing.

Let’s all dance and sing along, reminiscing about our youthful days!

Las Palabras De AmorQueen41rank/position

Queen – Las Palabras De Amor (Top Of The Pops, 1982)

The song “Las Palabras De Amor,” featured on the 10th album Hot Space.

The opening, which begins with a floating, synth-driven sound, and the spacious choral work are particularly striking.

While the melody stays consistently high, the overall range is actually narrow, and the tempo is relaxed, so it’s easier to try at karaoke if you adjust the key to suit your voice.

Since there are backing vocals throughout, why not try recreating the song’s atmosphere with your friends?

Got To Be RealCheryl Lynn42rank/position

Cheryl Lynn – Got To Be Real

Sheryl Lynn’s debut track “To Be Real,” produced by David Foster, was a staple disco number at the time.

Even today, it continues to play widely as a timeless disco classic.

By the way, DREAMS COME TRUE’s “Kessen wa Kinyōbi” and SING LIKE TALKING’s “Rise” were reportedly inspired by this song.

If you listen closely, you can hear a similar vibe.