A Showa-era duet song. A timeless karaoke/snack-bar classic!
Do you like duet songs?
Some of you may have sung together with friends or even other customers at karaoke or in a snack bar.
Singing your favorite song solo is certainly fun, but duet songs—where two people weave harmonies—have a unique charm all their own.
In this article, we’ve gathered classic Showa-era duet songs that just about everyone has heard at least once.
Even if you’ve never tried a duet, take this chance to learn one and try singing it with a friend.
- [Karaoke] Duet songs for men and women. A roundup of popular and classic tracks.
- A love song you can sing as a duet. From Showa-era kayōkyoku to the latest J-pop!
- [Karaoke] Duet Song Rankings [2025]
- Classic Showa-era songs that are easy to sing at karaoke
- Compilation of enka duet songs. Introducing popular kayōkyoku hits as well!
- When you can’t decide what to sing at karaoke: Easy-to-sing classic hits from the Showa era
- [Duet Songs] A roundup of recommended tracks perfect for two women to sing together!
- [Harmony Songs for Duets] Songs that feel great to harmonize
- A roundup of duet songs sung by men—classic tracks renowned for their compelling harmonies and call-and-response.
- [Spotlight Again] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era hits trending now [2025]
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- [2025] A Collection of Classic Enka and Kayōkyoku Duets by Women
- Timeless classics everyone knows! Wedding songs born in the Showa era
Duet songs of nostalgic hits (’71–’80)
Osaka RhapsodyChisato and Mari Umihara
When you think of Senri and Mari Uminara’s signature songs, many people probably picture this duet.
Released in February 1976, this classic depicts the sweet moments of lovers set against the city of Osaka.
While landmarks like Midosuji and Dotonbori appear, the song is notable for conveying the couple’s emotions more than offering detailed scenery.
The performance by the Meiji University Mandolin Club lends it a unique atmosphere.
It’s a number you’ll want to sing with someone special at karaoke or in a snack bar, and it’s sure to resonate even with those who don’t know Osaka.
A heart that says “my dear, my dear.”Akira Kobayashi / Ruriko Asaoka
The duet song “Itoshi Itoshi to Iu Kokoro” by Akira Kobayashi and Ruriko Asaoka portrays the heart of a woman who has parted from the one she loves.
While most duets feature back-and-forth exchanges between a man and a woman or depict each person’s inner feelings, this track focuses solely on the woman.
It might seem challenging for a man to sing about a woman’s feelings, but Kobayashi’s part is basically the chorus, so in practice it isn’t difficult.
Be sure to give it a listen.
Summer LovebirdsToshi & Naoko
A duet released under the name Toshi & Naoko by Toshihiko Tahara and Naoko Ken in July 1985.
The melody and arrangement are full of that classic Showa vibe, and I imagine it was intentionally crafted with 1970s kayōkyoku in mind even at the time of release—what do you think? Maybe because of that, the melody is very easy to sing and remember, so I hope you’ll learn it and enjoy it at karaoke.
Rather than focusing on singing it perfectly, if you prioritize getting into the groove, I’m sure it’ll feel just right!
Duet songs from the nostalgic era (’81–’90)
wheat fieldOyonez
Among the many duet songs, “Mugibatake” (“Wheat Field”) has a comical vibe.
The lyrics tell of love budding between a young man and woman in the countryside, eventually leading to marriage, making it perfect as a duet for a young rural couple.
With this duet, I think you can sing without feeling shy.
Both hands to the starry skyChiyoko Shimakura / Hiroshi Moriya
The duet song “Hoshizora ni Ryōte o” by Hiroshi Moriya—known for his sweet yet astringent vocals—and Chiyoko Shimakura—who gained popularity for her charming voice—stands out.
While duet songs in enka and mood kayō often tend to be adult-oriented, depicting sultry romances or messy affairs, this piece is crafted as a pure love song.
The vocal difficulty is low and the melody is catchy, so be sure to try singing it at karaoke or in a snack bar.
Before winter comespaper balloon
It’s a classic that weaves a bittersweet love story evoking the arrival of winter.
The harmonies of Kamifūsen beautifully paint the scenery of an autumn twilight.
Released in November 1977, the song became a big hit, selling 450,000 copies.
It reached No.
4 on the weekly Oricon chart and ranked No.
27 on the 1978 year-end chart.
Its appeal lies in the moving lyrics that trace feelings for a former lover alongside the changing seasons.
It’s a song you’ll want to sing together with someone special at karaoke or in a cozy bar.
A heartwarming duet perfect for long autumn nights.
In conclusion
We introduced some classic duet songs from the Showa era.
Did you find a track that caught your interest? People often go to karaoke for farewell/welcome parties and reunions regardless of age, so it’s reassuring to have the standards down.
A male-female duet might feel a bit embarrassing, but go for it and sing it with plenty of mood!