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

Theory of the Mindful HeartRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – A Theory of Heart [Official Music Video]

Yūshinron, RADWIMPS’s fourth major-label single, is one of their early signature songs and a beloved classic among fans.

Some people now in their 30s may have first discovered the band—who were then rising as a cutting-edge young act—through this track.

The song is memorable for its catchy chorus and lyrics with a distinctive worldview, but the part to watch out for when singing it at karaoke is the fast, rap-like delivery.

Practice to keep your rhythm steady, and try to avoid sounding too flat or mechanical as you sing.

Paradise BabyRIP SLYME

RIP SLYME – Rakuen Baby

For those in their 30s today, the April 2025 announcement that RIP SLYME would be restarting with all five original members must have been electrifying news.

They produced many hits in the 2000s, but when it comes to karaoke, the first song that comes to mind is undoubtedly Rakuen Baby, released in 2002.

In recent years it’s enjoyed a revival on platforms like TikTok, so it’s well-known among younger generations too.

With its Latin-flavored arrangement and the group’s strength of having four distinct MCs on full display, it’s a super-charged killer tune that always brings the hype, making it a karaoke favorite.

The melody is woven in generously, so even those who aren’t confident with rap should find it approachable.

Sing it with friends while trading rap lines, and you’re guaranteed to have a blast!

GuaranaSukima Switch

Sukima Switch – “Guarana” Music Video: SUKIMASWITCH – GUARANA Music Video

It’s a classic pop song that makes your heart flutter—brisk acoustic guitar backing and elegant strings weave a refreshing yet somehow wistful sense of speed.

“Guarana” is a single by Sukima Switch released in 2006; it was their first song to reach No.

1 on the Oricon charts and was also used as the theme song for the film “Rough,” released the same year.

When singing it at karaoke, aim for clear enunciation and start by delivering the song’s momentum with powerful vocals.

At the same time, keep your pacing in mind and focus on adding dynamics so you can carry your performance all the way to the end.

far; distant; by farSpitz

Spitz / Haruka

Needless to say, Spitz have countless masterpieces and are hugely popular at karaoke, but many people feel intimidated by melodies sung in Masamune Kusano’s clear, high-tone vocals.

The 2001 release Haruka introduced here is, of course, sung in a range that can be tough for those who can’t hit high notes, but the melodic rises and falls aren’t that drastic and the line stays relatively steady, so lowering the key makes it quite manageable even for lower voices.

If you find yourself struggling partway through the soaring chorus, I recommend learning to sing with proper diaphragmatic breathing to avoid straining your throat.

Surfing JohnnyKeisuke Kuwata

Keisuke Kuwata – Surfin' Johnny (Short ver.)

Just hearing that light, tinkling piano intro instantly brings back memories of those summers… It’s a Heisei-era masterpiece that colored the early 2000s! No explanation needed: “Naminori Johnny,” the smash hit released in 2001 under the solo name of Keisuke Kuwata, vocalist of Southern All Stars, is a karaoke staple and has been sung across generations.

With Kuwata’s signature style in full bloom and a wide vocal range, the melody darts busily between low and high notes, which might feel surprisingly challenging when you actually try to sing it.

At the same time, it’s so catchy you can memorize it right away just by listening.

If you sing it with clear contrast—keeping the soaring parts and the rhythmic parts in mind—you can aim for a high score at karaoke!

Farewell, tearsKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Farewell, Tears”

This is the number-one song to cheer up your subordinates: if you invite a junior colleague who’s struggling or upset at work out for karaoke, have a drink together, and sing Ketsumeishi’s “Saraba Namida” for them, it will undoubtedly boost your credibility as a wonderfully caring and thoughtful boss.

First loveKozo Murashita

Kozo Murashita – First Love

If you still harbor a lingering regret in your heart about never telling the girl you liked back in your school days how you felt—wishing you had confessed back then—then, should you get the chance to go to karaoke at something like a class reunion after-party, I highly recommend singing Kozo Murashita’s “Hatsukoi” in front of her as a subtle message song to let her know you liked her.