[2026] Recommended Japanese karaoke songs for men in their 50s

If I Could Play the PianoNishida Toshiyuki

If I Could Play the Piano

This song is a classic that almost everyone has heard at least once.

Released in 1981, it is widely known as one of Toshiyuki Nishida’s signature pieces.

Born as an insert song for the drama “Ikeshita Genta 80 Kilos,” it was later performed on shows such as “The Top Ten” and the “NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.” Through the bittersweet wish of being able to play the piano, it delicately portrays the feelings of a clumsy man who cannot express his love.

The warm vocals and touching lyrics have resonated with many people and continue to be cherished across generations.

If you sing it at karaoke, you’re sure to win applause from your peers.

For men in their fifties with rich life experience, the essence of this song will likely resonate even more deeply.

In the Middle of a DreamKisugi Takao

Yumeno Tochu

This nostalgic, melodic song is a deeply moving piece themed around parting and reunion.

Included on the 1981 album “Yume no Tochū,” it became a massive hit in 1982 as a collaborative release with Hiroko Yakushimaru.

Kisugi’s gentle vocals and the piano-centered, soothing soundscape create a world that resonates with adult men.

The lyrics, which beautifully depict moments of farewell and memories of bygone love, are sure to strike a chord with those who have gathered life experience.

Sing it at adult gatherings—such as company parties or class reunions—and it will surely touch the hearts of those around you.

Performed with a calm, heartfelt tone, it’s a song that will further highlight your charm.

ultramarineTanimura Shinji

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It can rightly be called a quintessential masterpiece that resonates across generations.

The tragedy of war and the wish for peace, sung over a gently flowing melody, move the hearts of listeners.

Released in July 1981, this song drew great attention as the theme for the film “Rengō Kantai” (Combined Fleet).

Shinji Tanimura’s distinctive vocals and profound lyrics struck a chord with many and continue to exude an unfading charm.

For men in their fifties, it may be a song that revives memories of their youth.

If sung at reunions or family gatherings—occasions that can be shared across generations—it will surely create moments that linger in the heart.

Only YouBOØWY

Only You

This is one of BOØWY’s signature songs, renowned for its romantic lyrics and memorable melody.

Released in April 1987, it was a re-cut single from the album “BEAT EMOTION” and debuted at No.

4 on the Oricon chart.

Said to be a love song written by Kyosuke Himuro for his wife, it conveys deep feelings for a beloved partner.

It was also a fan favorite performed at every concert up until the band’s breakup.

Sing it at karaoke and it’s sure to transform the atmosphere of the room.

With its warm lyrics and beautiful melody, it resonates with listeners of all ages.

Rainy BlueTokunaga Hideaki

HIDEAKI TOKUNAGA – Rainy Blue

A masterpiece that brilliantly portrays the sound of rain breaking the midnight silence and the lingering emotions tied to a love that should have ended.

Hideaki Tokunaga’s clear, transparent voice further heightens the bittersweet mood.

Released in January 1986 as his debut single, the song became so popular that it was later covered by various artists.

It fully showcases Tokunaga’s talent as a vocalist and can be considered a defining track of his musical career.

For men in their 50s, it may overlap with memories of their younger days.

It’s a perfect song to sing at large gatherings like company parties or class reunions.

With its restrained opening and a soaring climax that lets you display your vocal range, it’s guaranteed to get the crowd going at karaoke.

GLORIAZIGGY

ZIGGY「GLORIA」

A song released in 1988 has been loved by many as one of ZIGGY’s signature tracks.

Written and composed by Juichi Morishige, it was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Dou-kyu-sei” and became a major hit.

It sold about 329,000 copies and reached No.

3 on the Oricon charts, becoming a timeless classic that continues to be sung.

While its style is more akin to a kayōkyoku ballad than a typical rock band sound, the lyrics carry a message of moving forward without losing hope, resonating across generations.

If you sing it at company parties or class reunions—any occasion where you want everyone to get excited—it’s sure to bring the whole room together.

Sad Feelings (JUST A MAN IN LOVE)Kuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Sad Feelings (Just a Man in Love) (Full ver.)

A song that portrays the bittersweet feelings of a heartbroken man was released in 1987 as Mr.

Kuwata’s solo debut.

Included on the album “Keisuke Kuwata,” it reached No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart, sold 650,000 copies, and won the Excellent Album Award at the 30th Japan Record Awards.

Although it’s an upbeat pop tune, the lyrics delicately express the sorrow of a breakup, leaving a strong impression.

Seasonal imagery—like the end of summer and the night breeze—further highlights the loneliness of parting.

For men in their 50s, it’s a song that overlaps with memories of their youth, and singing it at karaoke is sure to resonate with people of the same generation.