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Introducing popular J-pop songs that start with “Ta”!

Have you heard of shiritori karaoke, where you connect songs by using the last letter of the previous song’s title? Surprisingly, it can get pretty exciting—sometimes you can’t think of any songs, or there aren’t as many singable ones as you expect.

So this time, I’ll introduce a bunch of Japanese songs that start with “ta.” I’ve picked popular J-POP tracks so you can use them both for karaoke and for playing shiritori using only song titles.

Please use this as a reference, and if there’s a song you’d like to try singing, go for it!

Introducing songs that start with “Ta” from popular J-POP! (151–160)

Just stay by my sideIshihara Junko

Junko Ishihara 'Just Stay by My Side' Music Video (Short Version)
Just stay by my side, Junko Ishihara

As her career progressed, Junko Ishihara began taking on not only enka but also other kayōkyoku and pop songs.

“Tada Soba ni Itekurete” is a pure pop piece and has become popular among fans as a moving work.

Because it’s pop, the difficulty is far lower than enka, and advanced vocal techniques like kobushi do not appear.

That said, you still need basic vocal technique, since it requires a certain vocal range and features sections with sharp pitch rises and falls.

Tateyama Mountain RangeKaori Mizumori

“Tateyama Mountain Range” by Kaori Mizumori
Kaori Mizumori of the Tateyama Mountain Range

Kaori Mizumori’s classic “Tateyama Mountain Range.” Characterized by its bright atmosphere, this piece is set against the Tateyama Range in the northern Hida Mountains.

It’s an orthodox enka song with a slow tempo and a restrained use of kobushi (melodic ornaments).

The few kobushi that do appear don’t span more than three notes, making it very easy to sing even for those who struggle with enka.

While the vocal range is somewhat wide, with proper key adjustment anyone can sing it—so consider adding it to your repertoire.

A drop of the great riverEisaku Okawa

Small efforts accumulating into a mighty river… This work sings a life philosophy that resonates with the heart.

Released in February 2025 as Eisaka Okawa’s 110th single, it delivers the message that “everyday experiences enrich our lives” over a gentle, soothing melody.

Okawa’s deep, resonant voice is sure to move you.

A powerful anthem that gives you the courage to look ahead.

The sun shines even at night.WINO

WINO "The Sun Shines at Night" Official Music Video
The sun shines at night as well, WINO

The lyrics depicting hope and trials are striking.

It’s a single by WINO released in December 2000, and it was used as the opening theme for the second season of the anime series.

The lyrics carry a strong message centered on loss and rebirth, and it features an alternative, emotional rock sound.

It ties in with the story of the Yorknew City arc, which portrays the battle with the Phantom Troupe, and it really gets your heart pounding.

Cape TachimachiMasako Mori

It’s a classic song set on the Sea of Japan that poignantly portrays a woman who continues to wait for her beloved.

Masako Mori’s clear, deeply expressive singing resonates profoundly with listeners.

Released in August 1982 as Mori’s 39th single, the song won the Grand Prize at the Masao Koga Memorial Music Awards.

It was also performed at the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen at the end of the same year, earning widespread affection.

While upholding the traditions of enka, the song features a melodious quality reminiscent of kayōkyoku, highlighted by Mori’s transparent, luminous voice.

It’s a demanding piece that calls for a wide vocal range and delicate expressiveness, but by all means, give it a try.

Tango Namida StationSachiko Shiina

This is an enka song by Sachiko Shiina that sings of the pain of heartbreak against the snowy backdrop of the Tango Peninsula.

While depicting a heartrending farewell, the lyrics unfold with a strong sense of storytelling, and the melody is notable for requiring a wide vocal range.

Released in January 2020, the song drew attention as the third installment in Shiina’s Sea of Japan series.

If you try it at karaoke, you’ll need a rich, sultry tone and deeply expressive delivery, so even those familiar with enka may need practice.

It’s a perfect piece for those with plenty of romantic experience or hidden feelings in their hearts.

Introducing songs that start with “Ta” from popular J-POP! (161–170)

Tough To Be A HughHarukamirai

A track included on the album Eternal Flower, released in January 2019.

The lyrics, which portray the nuances of interpersonal distance and inner conflict, leave a strong impression.

Its emotional rock sound and driving rhythm resonate deeply.

A fan favorite that’s often performed live, it showcases Harukamirai’s performance power to the fullest.

You can feel the momentum of a band that was playing around 150 shows a year.

It’s the perfect song for when you want to let your emotions out or reflect on feelings you keep inside.