Recommended Japanese pop songs for karaoke for men in their 30s

A third of pure-hearted feelingsSIAM SHADE

A third of pure-hearted feelings

Although they disbanded once in 2002, SHIAM SHADE has captivated fans with several temporary reunions.

This signature song of theirs is widely known as the ending theme for the TV anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.

Its structure is very straightforward: the chorus comes first, followed by verse A and verse B, building excitement.

The beginning of verse A hits the song’s lowest note, D#3, which might be a bit low even for male singers.

Be careful not to let your voice get muffled in this part.

Another challenging aspect of the song is the rhythm.

In the chorus, if you sing it in a typical 4/4 feel, it won’t lock in with the backing drums and will sound flat.

Try singing it with a driving triplet feel instead—you’ll sound much cooler! It may be difficult until you get used to it, but definitely give it a try.

Hold me, señoritaTomohisa Yamashita

Tomohisa Yamashita (Yamashita Tomohisa) Daite Señorita [2014 version]

Tomohisa Yamashita, known by his nickname Yamapi, was a member of the idol group NEWS from 2003 to 2011.

In 2006, Yamapi released his long-awaited debut solo single, Daite Señorita, which was used as the theme song for the TBS drama Kurosagi.

The song’s intro is cool and memorable.

As an idol song, its vocal range is relatively narrow, making it easy to sing even for those who aren’t confident with high notes.

The opening of the first verse is quite low, so it may be tricky to hit the pitches, but if you sing carefully, you’ll be fine.

There’s also a simple choreography in the chorus, so try enjoying it while keeping the rhythm.

Tomorrow never knowsMr.Children

Mr.Children "Tomorrow never knows" Tour 2015 Incomplete Live

The heartwarming, crystal-clear hit song Tomorrow never knows by Mr.

Children—famous as the theme song of the TV drama Wakamono no Subete and as an insert song in the drama Antique: Western Antiques Confectionery—is one of those classic tracks you’ll want to sing at karaoke.

In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Ketsui no Asa ni' Music Video (Theme song of the film 'Brave Story')

This song resonates with lyrics full of kindness and empathy.

Without hiding its own naivety, it gently conveys the desire to live life in one’s own way, carried by a warm, soothing melody.

It tenderly embraces everyday doubts and inner conflicts, as well as the ache of not being able to speak one’s true feelings, resulting in a track that stands by every listener.

Released by Aqua Timez in July 2006, it drew attention as the theme song for the animated film Brave Story.

It was also used in Sapporo Beer’s New Year Sports Special: Hakone Ekiden commercial, and has been loved by many.

This is a song you’ll want to hear when your heart is wavering or when you’re facing an important decision.

It’s also easy to follow the melody for karaoke, allowing you to sing it with heartfelt emotion.

A flower that blooms only hereKobukuro

A Flower That Blooms Only Here / Kobukuro

In today’s world, where life has grown more complex and busy work schedules have made it common for both men and women to marry after 30, there’s a wonderful song that can warm the heart when a man feels shy and can’t confess his feelings to the woman he loves.

If he sings Kobukuro’s “The Flower That Blooms Only Here” and then expresses his feelings, it seems like things might go well.

Beyond a thousand nightsAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Beyond a Thousand Nights' Music Video (Theme song of the movie 'BLEACH: Memories of Nobody')

When people talk about iconic medium-tempo ballads from the 2000s, I’m sure many in their mid to late 30s immediately think of this song.

“Sen no Yoru wo Koete” is Aqua Timez’s second single overall, and it was also used as the theme song for the anime film BLEACH: Memories of Nobody.

With its arrangement incorporating strings, it’s a classic that truly evokes the 2000s, yet its clear melodic lines and straightforward structure make it very singable at karaoke.

While the pitch isn’t particularly high, there are some fairly low notes and the overall range is relatively wide, so try to be mindful of delivering it with good dynamic contrast.

sailing dayBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN「sailing day」

In fact, BUMP OF CHICKEN’s very first anime tie-in song was “sailing day.” Released in 2003 as a double A-side single together with “Lost Man,” it’s a classic noted for its guitar sound and melodies that deliver that distinctly BUMP-like, heart-searing sense of wistful speed.

Many people now in their 30s probably fire up this song at karaoke with friends of the same generation when it’s time to get the party going.

Looking at the melody, the overall range is relatively wide: in true Fujiwara style, it showcases calm low tones in the first half and then opens up into soaring highs in the chorus.

Those who are used to singing should handle it without trouble.

If your voice is on the lower side, adjusting the key will make it perfectly manageable.