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2000s: A Collection of Hit Karaoke Classics

When you think of hit songs from the 2000s, which tracks come to mind?

From bands and singers who had been active since the ’90s to groups that emerged in the 2000s, the music scene of the time was full of popular songs by a wide range of artists.

It was also an era when karaoke was extremely popular, so many people likely went to karaoke often with friends and colleagues.

In this article, we’ll introduce a roundup of songs from the 2000s that were big hits and especially popular at karaoke!

This is a great chance to try singing some of the songs that bring back memories from that time.

[2000s] A roundup of hit karaoke classics (1–10)

secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE

ZONE “secret base ~What You Gave Me~” MUSIC VIDEO
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE

This is the fourth single by the girls’ band ZONE, who debuted with the catchphrase “Bandol,” referring to a female idol group that performs in a band format.

The song was chosen as the theme for the TV drama Kids War 3: Don’t Mess With Me, and it also drew attention as the first single on which ZONE performed live rather than miming their instruments, which they had done previously.

Its emotional lyrics about a childhood promise evoke a sense of nostalgia for everyone.

With a catchy melody and a relaxed shuffle beat, it’s a quintessential karaoke staple of the 2000s.

A Little Love SongMONGOL800

A Small Love Song – MONGOL800 (Full)
A Little Love SongMONGOL800

A song by the two-piece rock band MONGOL800—affectionately known as Monpachi—categorized as youth punk for its straightforward message and high-velocity rock sound.

Despite never being released as a single, it even inspired a film and is widely recognized as Monpachi’s signature track.

Its exquisite harmonies riding on a driving beat offer a beauty that draws you in, even though it’s a rock tune.

Nail the harmonies with your friends, and it’s guaranteed to heat up any karaoke session.

CHE.R.RYYUI

CHE.R.RY – YUI (Full)
CHE.R.RYYUI

A refreshing youth anthem that sings about the sweet-and-sour thrill of first love.

The lyrics delicately portray feelings of romance blossoming through email, resonating with many listeners.

Released in March 2007 as YUI’s eighth single, it became a major hit, reaching No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

It also drew attention as the song featured in KDDI’s “LISMO” commercial.

With a melody that evokes the freshness of spring and lyrics that capture the very moment you fall in love, it’s a captivating track—perfect for anyone who wants to relive the sweetness of first love or who is falling in love right now.

[2000s] A Collection of Hit Karaoke Classics (11–20)

powder snowRemioromen

This is the eighth single by Remioromen, a three-piece rock band that announced a hiatus in 2012 and whose members are now active in their respective fields.

The song was featured as insert music in the TV drama “1 Litre of Tears” and is widely recognized by listeners across generations as one of Remioromen’s signature tracks.

It also topped a karaoke request ranking by Daiichikosho that focused on winter-themed keywords like “snow” and “ice,” making it a staple winter karaoke song in J-pop.

Hitting the high notes in the soaring chorus—the highlight of the track—feels great, so it’s a number we especially recommend for male singers comfortable with higher keys.

Close your eyesHirai Ken

Hitomi wo Tojite – Ken Hirai (Full)
Close your eyesHirai Ken

This song is memorable for its poignant breakup lyrics and a melody that resonates deep in the heart.

The love-filled lyrics, reflecting on a lost partner, are truly moving.

Released in April 2004 as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World,” it topped many music charts.

As Ken Hirai’s 20th single, it stands out as one of the most striking tracks of his career.

Many people sing it at karaoke, and it continues to be cherished as a song that comforts those who have experienced a breakup.

Why not sing it while thinking of someone special?

HANABIMr.Children

Mr.Children 「HANABI」 MUSIC VIDEO
HANABIMr.Children

A signature song by Mr.Children, one of Japan’s leading rock bands.

Inspired by the goldfish that Kazutoshi Sakurai kept, the song portrays life’s choices and sacrifices, as well as lost love.

The lyrics are filled with striking phrases that really move you.

Released in December 2008, it also drew attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Code Blue.” It’s a karaoke favorite, too.

Its warm vocals and melody resonate with those struggling in life.

It might be nice to sing it while thinking of someone special.

to youMONGOL800

Despite never being released as a single, this signature song by MONGOL800 has been featured in a variety of places, including insert tracks that color a film’s final scene, drama opening themes, and commercials.

In 2001, the album MESSAGE—featuring this track and the well-known classic Chiisana Koi no Uta—was released and became a huge hit, cementing Monpachi’s popularity.

Its straightforward lyrics about love and its fresh, powerful sound give courage and energy to both singers and listeners.

Why not sing it while reminiscing about a page from your youth?