A collection of easy-to-sing songs by ELLEGARDEN
ELLEGARDEN is a band that began in 1998 and led the Japanese rock scene throughout the 2000s.
Despite being at the height of their popularity, they went on hiatus in 2008, but returned in 2018 and once again became a driving force in the Japanese rock scene.
From among ELLEGARDEN’s songs—which are highly popular with Japanese rock fans—I’ll introduce tracks that are easy to sing at karaoke.
Some songs have more Japanese lyrics, some have simple melodies, and some aren’t too fast in tempo—each has its own easy-to-sing points, so try finding the ones that suit you.
Let’s dive right in!
A roundup of easy-to-sing ELLEGARDEN songs (1–10)
MissingELLEGARDEN
The 4th single “Missing” opens with a lyrical guitar riff, making for a striking ensemble.
The arrangement, imbued with a wistful feel and layered with poignant lyrics, naturally puts you in a sentimental mood just by listening.
While there are points to watch out for—such as the leaps in pitch during the chorus—the overall key is low and the range isn’t wide, so it should be comfortable to sing calmly at karaoke.
Plus, because the melody is relaxed, it’s a number I’d recommend even to those who aren’t very confident in their singing.
JitterbugELLEGARDEN
The third single “Jitterbug,” chosen as the ending theme for the music program CDTV, is a track that won broad support with its positive lyrics and driving ensemble, earning the band their first No.
1 on the indie charts.
Since the lyrics are in Japanese, it’s easy to remember, and the catchy melody makes it a good choice to try at karaoke.
However, there’s a leap in pitch from the low notes in the pre-chorus (B-melody) to the chorus, so be careful not to go off pitch—especially if the key is at the edge of your range.
No.13ELLEGARDEN
The song “No.13,” included on their second album BRING YOUR BOARD!!—which marked the band’s shift toward a stronger melodic hardcore sound—stands out for its striking contrast between a fast, driving beat and a subtly wistful melody.
You might feel a bit hesitant since the lyrics are entirely in English, but the melody itself is relatively simple, with no large interval jumps, making it quite approachable for karaoke.
The overall key is also on the lower side, so it’s a powerful rock tune I’d recommend even to those who aren’t confident singers.
VenusELLEGARDEN
The song Venus, included on the second album BRING YOUR BOARD!!, carries a message that reminds us of the importance of recognizing what truly matters deep in our hearts, rather than material things that will eventually fade away.
It may inspire many people to reflect on themselves.
With its low key and entirely Japanese lyrics, it’s easy to try singing at karaoke.
It’s an emotional rock tune with a relaxed shuffle beat that feels great.
starfishELLEGARDEN
Among ELLEGARDEN’s songs, “Starfish” is probably one of the easiest to sing thanks to its Japanese lyrics and high recognition.
The track is included on the 2004 album “Pepperoni Quattro” and is one of ELLE’s signature songs.
There’s a brief section with English lyrics, but it’s mostly in Japanese; even people who don’t know much about ELLEGARDEN will be moved by the poignant lyrics that contrast with the catchy melody.
The intro is distinctive, and fans get excited just from hearing it—if you’re at karaoke with fellow fans, it’s a guaranteed hit!
Make a WishELLEGARDEN
ELLEGARDEN’s “Make a Wish” is a song that shifts from a slow, stripped-down intro to an exciting, high-energy climax, and among fans it has a strong image as the perfect track to close out a live show.
The acoustic guitar at the beginning resonates with the heart, and from there the tension shoots straight to the max—something that won’t change even when it’s a karaoke pick.
English lyrics often get avoided as hard to sing, but this one is short and simple, making it easy even for those who aren’t comfortable with English lyrics.
How about using it as the final song to wrap up your karaoke session?
Windy DayELLEGARDEN
The song “Kaze no Hi,” included on their first album “DON’T TRUST ANYONE BUT US,” is an enduring rock tune that drew attention again in 2023—21 years after its release—when it was featured in Lion’s NONIO commercial.
Although an English lyric appears right before the final chorus, most of the lyrics are in Japanese, and with a simple melody and a not-so-wide vocal range, it’s packed with elements that make it easy to sing at karaoke—highly recommended.
Its relatable, positive lyrics and robust sound will lift your spirits; it’s a number that simply feels great to sing.
Marry MeELLEGARDEN
The song “Marry Me,” included on their fourth album RIOT ON THE GRILL, which helped bring the band wider recognition.
Its story depicts the scene of someone you love marrying someone else; while it may feel somewhat comical, many listeners will likely relate to it.
Since all the lyrics are in English, some parts may be difficult for those not used to that, but the melody is simple, making it an easy song to sing at karaoke.
If you can’t quite handle the English lyrics on the spot, practice at home until your mouth remembers them—you’ll feel more at ease, so definitely give it a try.
AshELLEGARDEN
The song “Ash” is included on the 5th album ELEVEN FIRE CRACKERS.
The opening, which kicks off with a strummed guitar sound, really heightens your anticipation for the track.
Since most of the lyrics are in Japanese and the melody is simple, it’s also recommended for those who aren’t very used to singing.
While the fast tempo does make it a bit challenging, its solid rock ensemble makes it an undeniable upper-tune that’s sure to get everyone fired up at karaoke.
Strawberry MargaritaELLEGARDEN
“Strawberry Margarita,” a track included on their sixth album The End of Yesterday—their first album in about 16 years counting from before their hiatus—kicks off with a tension-raising intro that features a hefty yet textured guitar sound.
The all-English lyrics and brisk tempo feel challenging in true ELLEGARDEN fashion, but the melody itself has a narrow range and little inflection, making it quite approachable for karaoke.
It’s a refreshing, high-energy tune whose wistful melody feels great to sing.