Recommended karaoke songs for women in their 20s — Heisei/Reiwa hits and the latest tracks

tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

Koresawa’s soul-stirring ballad is a huge hit! This song, which captures the pain of heartbreak, was released digitally in March 2017 and quickly became a hot topic.

In August of the same year, she made her major-label debut with the album “Korekara.” With delicate lyrics and an emotionally rich vocal performance that tugs at the heart, this track is sure to resonate deeply with women in their twenties struggling with love.

Sing it at karaoke with friends or coworkers, and you’ll definitely spark a wave of empathy.

It’s a beloved karaoke staple, so be sure to give it a try!

DarlingKana Nishino

Kana Nishino 'Darling' MV Full

A love song that sings of sweet, bittersweet feelings is sure to resonate with women in their 20s! With its fresh, country-inspired sound, this piece showcases a new side of Kana Nishino.

It was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Mezamashi TV,” brightening many people’s mornings.

The lyrics, which depict the everyday moments shared with a lover, bring warmth to listeners’ hearts.

Sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to become a fun memory with friends or coworkers.

If you have a partner or someone you like, this song might be a great way to express your feelings.

Snow BlossomMika Nakashima

Mika Nakashima “Yuki no Hana” MUSIC VIDEO

A beloved winter classic, Mika Nakashima’s 2003 number has been cherished for many years.

Its lyrics, depicting the tranquil fall of snow and a heartwarming scene between two people, leave a strong impression.

It was also featured in Meiji Seika’s commercials for “bada” and “galbo,” resonating with many listeners.

The fact that numerous artists, both in Japan and abroad—such as Hideaki Tokunaga and Fumiya Fujii—have covered the song speaks to its enduring appeal.

With its relaxed, ballad-like tempo, it’s easy to sing at karaoke without rushing.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing with someone special on a winter’s day.

Cutie HoneyNEW!Kumi Koda

Kumi Koda - “Cutie Honey” ~ 20th Year Special Full Ver. ~

If you want a song to get everyone hyped, I recommend Cutie Honey.

It’s known across generations, so it’s a blast to sing at karaoke! Since many people are already familiar with the tune, you can probably breeze through it even if you’re not confident in your pitch.

The chorus does go a bit higher, so try to keep relaxed and avoid forcing your voice.

That said, this is a song where vibe matters more than vocal technique—if you move your body and use hand gestures to the rhythm, the tension naturally eases and it becomes much easier to sing! In fact, for people who aren’t used to karaoke, gestures are surprisingly important.

Standing stiff will almost always make you sing from your throat, so I highly recommend moving your body to the beat.

You’ll have a great time—don’t be shy, give it a try!

Ghost in the FlowersYorushika

Yorushika – Ghost in a Flower (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

For those who struggle to decide what to sing at karaoke, I recommend “Hana ni Bourei” (“Ghost in a Flower”).

It was released in 2020 by Yorushika, a rock band immensely popular especially among Gen Z.

Many listeners will relate to its poetic lyrics that capture a page of “youth.” The technical guitar riffs etched into the wistful band sound are striking, and suis’s clear vocals soothingly narrate a bittersweet summer story.

When singing it, the key is to relax and deliver it as if you’re speaking to someone.

Since the song unfolds within a steady vocal range, karaoke beginners should definitely give it a try.

Letter to TomorrowAoi Teshima

Aoi Teshima “Letter to Tomorrow (Drama Version)”

Aoi Teshima’s song features lyrics full of hope, like a letter addressed to your future self.

It begins with a gentle question and sings about the importance of facing forward and living without being defeated by harsh realities.

Released in February 2016, the track was used as the ending theme for the Fuji TV drama “Love That Makes You Cry” and won the Best Theme Song at the Tokyo Drama Awards.

It’s a piece that will surely resonate if you sing it at karaoke with friends or coworkers.

Singing it with a smile might kindle a light of hope in the hearts of those listening.

MarigoldAimyon

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A popular song by Aimyon that portrays the bittersweet feelings of summer love.

With a melody that lingers in your ears, it became a major hit after its 2018 release and was performed on the 2019 Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

Many listeners relate to its nostalgic lyrics and pleasant rhythm.

The summer scenes depicted in the song vividly bring back memories of youth.

Its karaoke-friendly melody makes it perfect to try at girls’ get-togethers or class reunions with friends—you’re sure to experience a moment when the whole room comes together.