Karaoke songs that are sure to get a 60-something man fired up

Yoko of the Port, Yokohama, YokosukaDown Town Boogie Woogie Band

Harbor Yoko, Yokohama, Yokosuka

This song, which proceeds mostly through spoken narration except for a single chorus line—much like a play or musical—is one of the most innovative and striking numbers in the Down Town Boogie-Woogie Band’s catalog.

It effectively marked the lyric-writing debut of Yoko Aki, who was the wife of the band’s leader, Ryudo Uzaki.

When the song became a hit, it inspired numerous answer songs.

Because you don’t have to worry much about pitch, it’s recommended even for those who aren’t confident in their singing but are comfortable delivering spoken lines.

My Dear EllieSouthern All Stars

Beloved Ellie COVER by Uru

This song is the Southern All Stars’ third single, released in 1979.

It was a hit in Japan, and became internationally famous when Ray Charles covered it in 1989.

It’s also a major karaoke favorite, so adding it to your repertoire is sure to go over well.

The video features EXILE’s ATSUSHI.

To the most important personTunnels

To the most important person

The classic Tunnels song “To the Most Important Person.” When it comes to Tunnels’ tracks, this is probably the first one many people think of.

Contrary to its masculine melody, the vocal line is surprisingly straightforward.

Its narrow range is particularly notable, keeping every part in the low to lower-mid register.

This is the easiest range for men in their 50s to sing, so it should be perfectly manageable for karaoke at after-parties or late-night gatherings.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

Sunset SongMasahiko Kondo

Masahiko Kondo “Song of the Sunset”

As a leading idol of the Showa era, Masahiko Kondo left behind many classic songs.

While many men have little interest in male idols, I imagine quite a few men in their late 50s made an exception for this song, “Yuuyake no Uta.” This work exudes a mature, understated cool, featuring a melody with a hint of enka.

The vocal range is fairly average, but because the vocal lines embody the familiar enka-like feel that Japanese listeners are accustomed to, it’s very easy to sing.

The Bride SambaHiromi Go

Bride Samba – Hiromi Go

Hiromi Go, who debuted in 1972 and won a passionate following with his sweet looks and voice.

His song “Oyome Samba” has a samba-like rhythm that makes you want to start dancing, making it perfect for karaoke.

There’s a call-and-response part, so it’s easy to enjoy together with other participants around you, which is great, right? When a string of enka and other sad songs has brought the mood down and you want to brighten the atmosphere a bit, this song is your go-to.

Move your body within your comfort level and sing it cheerfully!

Don't cry.Hiroshi Tachi

Don’t Cry – Hiroshi Tachi

Hiroshi Tachi, who once oversaw the biker team Cools alongside Koichi Iwaki as the honor guard for the rock band Carol, has also been active as a vocalist in addition to his acting career.

With this song, released in 1984, he appeared in the 35th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Considered one of Tachi’s signature tracks, pulling it off stylishly at karaoke could boost your image.

It’s a recommended pick for those with lower voices.

Outside, it’s a night of white snow.Takuro Yoshida

A White Snowy Night Outside / Takuro Yoshida

“Soto wa Shiroi Yuki no Yoru” (“A Night of White Snow Outside”) was released in 1978 and composed by Takuro Yoshida and Takashi Matsumoto.

The arrangement is sparse, which brings the vocals to the forefront.

It’s a song you can sing even if high notes aren’t your strength, so it’s a great choice to practice for karaoke.

The melody is wonderfully moving without being overly somber.