Popular 80s hits for karaoke. Sing kayōkyoku and pop songs!
What kind of songs do you sing when you go to karaoke?
Some people like to sing the latest hits, but 80s Japanese pop still enjoys strong popularity at karaoke.
Songs from that era are often either easy to sing or really satisfying to belt out, so they’re popular even among younger generations.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of recommended karaoke tracks from the biggest hits of the 80s.
We’ve focused on timeless classics that almost everyone has heard before and gathered songs perfect for karaoke, so use this as a guide when choosing what to sing.
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Popular 80s hits for karaoke. Sing kayōkyoku and pop songs! (11–20)
Tears aren’t just for show.Nakamori Akina
A single by singer Akina Nakamori—known as an iconic idol of the 1980s who still enjoys enduring popularity thanks to her overwhelming vocal ability and expressive power—this is her tenth release.
Written by singer-songwriter Yosui Inoue, the impactful lyrics and catchy melody are outstanding.
Because the melody sits low for a female range, it should be easier to sing even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.
Beloved by listeners across generations to this day, it’s an idol song that’s sure to get the crowd going at karaoke.
A long nightMatsuyama Chiharu
This is the tenth single by Chiharu Matsuyama, a folk singer from Hokkaido who has gained popularity across generations for his soulful high-tone voice.
With a rock-style arrangement that set it apart from earlier folk songs, it became a massive hit and is known as Matsuyama’s biggest success.
The melody, featuring a driving yet dramatic ensemble and his expansive high notes, makes it especially satisfying to sing at karaoke.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser no matter who you go with—an iconic karaoke song representing the 1980s.
Don’t give up on your dreamsOkamura Takako
When you want to sing a cheer song to boost your motivation, “Yume wo Akiramenai de” is perfect.
This piece is performed by singer-songwriter Takako Okamura.
True to its lyrics, it emphasizes the importance of never giving up on your dreams.
It’s great for lifting your spirits in everyday singing, and it would also suit karaoke at year-end parties or send-off gatherings.
From the verse to the chorus, the melody has a narrow and steady pitch range, so the key is to sing without overexerting yourself.
Ya Ya (I Won’t Forget That Time)Sazan Ōrusutāzu
“Ya Ya (Ano Jidai o Wasurenai)” makes you think, ‘Those were the days—I wish I could go back.’ It’s a classic released in 1982 by Southern All Stars, led by Keisuke Kuwata.
Even today, its atmosphere, melody, and Kuwata’s signature vocal style remain timeless and captivating.
The French in the chorus is especially memorable, gently etching itself into your heart.
It’s wonderful to sing at karaoke while reminiscing about those times.
No matter who you go with—friends you spent those days with or family—it’s a number that’s sure to move everyone.
Ruby RingTerao Akira
Speaking of Akira Terao’s signature song, isn’t it “Ruby no Yubiwa” (Ruby Ring)? Winning the Japan Record Award with this song also left a strong impression.
The charm of “Ruby no Yubiwa” lies in its story-like, heartrending lyrics.
Immerse yourself in its world and sing it gently.
Also, since the key is quite low, it’s recommended as an easy song for men to sing at karaoke.
It’s said that Akira Terao himself raises the key a bit when he performs it, so try adjusting it to suit your voice.
CAT’S EYEAnri
Cat’s Eye has a cool, era-defining city pop sound.
Singer-songwriter Anri, known for Olivia o Kikinagara, released it in 1983.
It became a huge hit after being used as the opening theme for the TV anime of the same title, and it’s a highly recognized anime song.
Even today it still feels catchy, and it’s a track that can get not only older listeners but also younger generations excited when they sing it.
I’d especially recommend it to those who find recent songs hard to follow or too difficult.
Hit songs from the ’80s popular at karaoke. Sing kayōkyoku and pop! (21–30)
DESIRE -Passion-Nakamori Akina
The “DESIRE style,” combining traditional Japanese attire, a short bob, and distinctive choreography, became a social phenomenon.
It’s a song where you can really feel Akina’s bold side.
Singing with a slightly lower, cool tone should match the atmosphere very well.
The range doesn’t venture much into high notes, and the A-melody is quite low for many female singers.
If you imagine pushing out a mass of breath in front of you and release your voice slowly, your body will resonate and it becomes easier to produce the sound.
For the chorus, open up your voice with a stylish, confident flair! It always gets the crowd going, so it’s highly recommended.
