A love song you can sing as a duet. From Showa-era kayōkyoku to the latest J-pop!

I won’t let you go tonight.Abe Riitsuko / Hashi Yukio

Yukio Hashi & Ritsuko Abe — I Won’t Let You Go Tonight

Here is the song that is none other than Yukio Hashi’s 149th single.

Riuko Abe was reportedly chosen as Hashi’s partner through an audition.

Sales surpassed 300,000 copies, and the song received a Special Award at the Japan Cable Awards.

Because it’s often sung at drinking parties in karaoke, this kind of theme feels like the classic image of a duet song.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

Report a problem

I won’t forget it.Yamamoto Jōji, Jōnouchi Sanae

Joji Yamamoto & Sanae Jōnouchi / I Won’t Forget

The duet song “Wasureru Monka” by Joji Yamamoto and Sanae Jōnouchi is a romance-themed track set against the backdrop of Tokyo at night.

Since its 2013 release, it has continued to be loved by many fans, and its lyrics in particular express deep emotions so unforgettable that even a one-night encounter becomes indelible.

The song evokes both the atmosphere of the city at night and the bittersweetness of love.

Joji Yamamoto’s powerful yet gentle vocals and Sanae Jōnouchi’s pure, emotionally rich voice blend exquisitely to captivate listeners.

Both hands to the starry skyShimakura Chiyoko / Moriya Hiroshi

Hands Raised to the Starry Sky — Chiyoko Shimakura; original song by Hiroshi Moriya

The duet song “Hoshizora ni Ryōte o” by Hiroshi Moriya—known for his sweet yet astringent vocals—and Chiyoko Shimakura—who gained popularity for her charming voice—stands out.

While duet songs in enka and mood kayō often tend to be adult-oriented, depicting sultry romances or messy affairs, this piece is crafted as a pure love song.

The vocal difficulty is low and the melody is catchy, so be sure to try singing it at karaoke or in a snack bar.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Anemone flaccida (nirinsō; literally “two-flowered anemone”)Gen Tetsuya/Kawanaka Miyuki

Miyuki Kawanaka & Tetsuya Gen “Nirinso” – The Ultimate Duet Song

This duet is a kayōkyoku song that falls under so-called enka, with a cool, old-school vibe.

Compared to Tetsuya Gen, Miyuki Kawanaka’s voice has a stronger kobushi (ornamental vibrato), giving it a powerful, resilient feminine core.

The lyrics are perfect for a duet sung by a loving married couple, just as the title suggests.

If you’re a close, affectionate pair, why not give it a try?

Raised in ShinjukuTsuyama Yoko / Oki Hideo

Shinjuku Sodachi - Hideo Oki & Yoko Tsuyama

It’s a duet song that makes you imagine a somewhat lonely man and woman.

They see each other all the time but pretend not to be interested, even though they can’t help but be curious deep down.

Two shy people in a cute way.

It’s a song that makes you excited to see how their relationship will develop.

Invite the person you’re interested in and try singing it together!

Sunset HillIshihara Yūjirō/Asaoka Ruriko

The Hill of the Setting Sun — Yujiro Ishihara & Ruriko Asaoka

It’s a duet song performed by Yujiro Ishihara, a major star of the Showa era, and the alluring actress Ruriko Asaoka.

The song was used as the theme for the film of the same title, Sunset Hill, released in 1964, in which the two also appeared.

Because the song directly reflects the world of the story, some viewers of the movie have found it deeply moving.

Although it’s a lyrical piece that leaves a lingering sense of sadness after it ends, that very quality makes it strangely addictive.

Maybe Part IIKobayashi Sachiko & Miki Katsuhiko

Maybe PART II

When I first saw this duo, I was surprised.

Since both of them were child actors, it struck me how long they’ve been active.

Their chemistry is impeccable, their acting is fun, and they’re a great model for singing.

The lyrics and the melody match well, making the song easy to remember.