Recommended for women in their 60s! Songs that get the crowd going at karaoke

Rainy MidosujiOuyang Feifei

Rainy Midosuji (Ouyang Feifei)

This is a classic song that portrays the poignant feelings of a woman walking along Midosuji in Osaka.

It was the single released when Taiwan-born Ouyang Fei Fei made her Japan debut in 1971, and it topped the Oricon chart for nine consecutive weeks.

Composed by The Ventures, the melody is rich with emotion, and Ouyang Fei Fei’s powerful vocals leave a strong impression.

It’s a song that evokes the rain-soaked streets of Osaka and invites listeners to empathize with a woman searching for her lover.

It’s also so familiar and singable that if you perform it at karaoke, people around you will find themselves humming along—perfect for gatherings with friends or a quick mood lift.

the first strong spring windCandies

Spring Storm - Candies

Known as one of the signature songs by Candies, this track depicts the beginning of a new romance with the arrival of spring.

Released in March 1976, it became a hit, reaching No.

3 on the weekly Oricon chart and No.

21 for the year.

By the time of their farewell concert, cumulative sales had reached 490,000 copies, cementing its status as a beloved classic for many.

Its refreshing seasonal feel and uplifting melody are especially appealing, and it’s sure to brighten the mood when sung at karaoke.

While it’s perfect for the season when you can feel spring’s arrival, it’s a song you can enjoy any time of year.

Tears aren't just for show.Akina Nakamori

[Official] Akina Nakamori / “Tears Aren’t Just for Show” (Live in ’87: A HUNDRED days at Tokyo Kosei Nenkin Kaikan, 1987-10-17) AKINA NAKAMORI

This song captivates with its heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals.

It showcases Akina Nakamori’s vocal prowess to the fullest, was released in November 1984, and topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Written and composed by Yosui Inoue, it marks a pivotal track in Nakamori’s transition from idol to artist.

With its rich emotional expression and lyrical depth, it resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced a farewell to someone dear.

It’s also karaoke-friendly with its relaxed tempo, allowing for expressive, heartfelt singing.

Try it when you’re gathered with friends reminiscing about the past or on a night when you want to sink into your memories.

Song of Circumnavigating Lake BiwaTokiko Kato

Lake Biwa Rowing Song (A Song That Touches the Heart)

Gaining nationwide recognition through Tokiko Kato’s 1971 cover, this song is said to have originated in 1917 (Taisho 6), when words written by Oguchi Taro, a member of the Third High School (now Kyoto University) boat club, were sung to a tune that was popular among the club members at the time.

That tune, “Hitsujigusa,” was composed by Chiaki Yoshida from Niitsu City, Niigata Prefecture, and was published in the magazine Ongakukai in 1915 (Taisho 4).

Tsugaru Strait – Winter SceneSayuri Ishikawa

Tsugaru Strait - Winter Scene, Sayuri Ishikawa

This song by Sayuri Ishikawa, with its gently mellow atmosphere, really touches the heart.

Released in 1977, it was also performed at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

The lyrics, depicting a journey by train and ship—the main modes of transportation at the time—evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Composed and arranged by Takashi Miki, it features a striking tenor saxophone in the intro.

You can almost picture the snowy scenery of Aomori and people returning home to Hokkaido.

For karaoke, it’s best to sing it at an easy, unhurried tempo, letting memories flow along with the music.

It’s a perfect song to share a warm, heartening moment with friends and family.

Come, spring.Yumi Matsutoya

Spring, Come – Yumi Matsutoya (Full)

This is the theme song of the NHK morning drama series of the same name that aired for six months starting in October 1994.

It’s a piece that consistently ranks high in spring classics rankings.

When singing it, add moderate dynamics so you don’t get carried away by the mood and make it overly sweet.

Red Sweet PeaSeiko Matsuda

Red Sweet Pea – Seiko Matsuda

This is one of Seiko Matsuda’s signature songs, portraying a sweet and bittersweet first love.

Released in 1982, the song beautifully blends Takashi Matsumoto’s lyrics with Yumi Matsutoya’s composition.

The lyrics capture the pure feelings of a young woman in love, and Seiko’s clear, soaring vocals combine to create a timeless classic that resonates with many listeners.

Upon release, it became an instant hit, reaching No.

3 on the year-end singles chart.

Since then, it has remained a karaoke staple.

Evoking the arrival of spring, this song is perfect for reminiscing about youthful days with friends at karaoke.

Why not sing it and let the gentle melody bring back the feelings from back then?