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.
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[2000s] A roundup of hit karaoke classics (21–30)
Sora-buneTOKIO
Known as “agriculture idols” from a TV show concept, TOKIO are in fact singers by profession.
Although it may be hard to imagine from their usual image, they have many outstanding songs, and their signature track is undoubtedly Sorafune.
Depicting a distant departure and the spirit of challenge, the song goes beyond a mere pop hit; it has been arranged for wind bands and choirs and is also recognized as a song of encouragement.
Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi
Nada Sōsō depicts Okinawa’s nature and farewells between people, set to a beautiful melody.
It’s no exaggeration to call it a national song now, widely sung at graduation ceremonies and choir competitions.
Originally performed by BEGIN, a band from Okinawa, it became a huge hit after Rimi Natsukawa’s cover and arrangement—an episode well known in the music world.
[2000s] A Collection of Hit Karaoke Classics (31–40)
TSUNAMISazan Ōrusutāzu
This is the 44th single by Southern All Stars, a five-member rock band often regarded as the quintessential “summer-image” band in the J-POP scene.
Known for multiple tie-ins—including serving as the theme song for the variety show Uhnan no Hontoko!’s segment “Mirai Nikki III,” as well as being featured in dramas and commercials—the song captures the band’s depth and appeal with its vivid, scene-painting lyrics and bittersweet melody.
It’s no wonder it ranks second in all-time CD single sales according to Oricon; it’s a timeless classic that everyone knows at karaoke, regardless of generation.
GibbsShiina Ringo
A love song by Sheena Ringo in which possessiveness toward a lover and the fear of losing them pierce the heart painfully.
Released in January 2000, this work was a lead single from the acclaimed album Shōso Strip.
It debuted at No.
4 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and received the Excellence Award at the 42nd Japan Record Awards, among other high honors.
Though the protagonist wants to believe in eternity, their sensitivity leads them to see a future lie in the word “forever.” Many listeners may find themselves relating to the depth of love that equates their relationship with that of a legendary couple.
PIECES OF A DREAMCHEMISTRY
This is the debut single by CHEMISTRY, a twin-vocal unit formed by two male singers who passed the “ASAYAN Super Male Audition” on the audition show ASAYAN.
Despite being their first release, it entered the Oricon Singles Chart at No.
2 and reached No.
1 in its sixth week, becoming a long-running hit.
With a melody featuring many leaps and effective use of falsetto, it was a popular challenge for karaoke at the time.
Catchy yet not requiring harmonizing or advanced techniques, it has long been loved as a karaoke song for two men to sing together.
Choo Choo TRAINEXILE
The song that really brought EXILE into the spotlight is undoubtedly “Choo Choo TRAIN.” In addition to its dashing, exhilarating sound, the unique choreography known as the rotating dance drew major attention.
It’s now a signature song for EXILE, and seeing many celebrities and singers—starting with Takashi Okamura—take on the challenge suggests it may have been a huge first step for the group.
It’s a feel-good song to sing solo, and it’s also fun to sing with friends while imitating the rotating dance.
Delicious WayKuraki Mai
The milestone song that cemented Mai Kuraki’s popularity is “Delicious Way.” Its lyrics, which skillfully weave in memories and scenes of a single summer, and its superb, rhythmic groove make it a karaoke staple.
It’s a classic that both men and women can enjoy singing.