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.
- A collection of nostalgic hits from the ’70s to 2000s that are perfect for livening up karaoke
- Songs that get women in their 80s excited: A roundup of tracks also great for karaoke
- [Revisited] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era songs that are trending now [2026]
- Moving masterpieces and popular songs you’ll want to sing at karaoke
- Showa-era nostalgic songs: Popular ranking
- Including global hits! 80s songs popular on TikTok
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- Karaoke songs that were hits in the ’90s. Classic and popular tracks from Japanese music.
- A lineup of classic hits! Karaoke songs recommended for the yutori generation
- Popular Showa-era pop. Timeless hit songs.
- [Nostalgic Hits] Smash Hits with the Showa Generation! Classic and Popular Songs Sung by Female Vocalists
- Heart-touching, tear-jerking masterpieces from the Showa era
- Thrilling to Cool Showa-Era Tunes! Classic Songs from Female Singers and Artists of the Showa Period
Popular 80s hits for karaoke. Sing kayōkyoku and pop songs! (11–20)
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.
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.
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.