[Women in Their 40s] Even If You’re Tone-Deaf, You Can Sing! Karaoke Songs That Fit a Woman’s Vocal Range

Soft scarCocco

Cocco – Soft Scars

Singer-songwriter Cocco, who was active in the 2000s.

For those in their early to mid-40s, she’s arguably a defining artist of their generation.

Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is Yawaraka na Kizuato (Soft Scars).

It has the feel of straightforward J-pop, similar to what Aimyon represents today.

There’s a falsetto part toward the end of the chorus, but because it’s sung very softly, even those who struggle with high notes should be able to sing it without any trouble.

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Tokyo at 7 p.m.Pizzicato Five

PIZZICATO FIVE / 7 p.m. in Tokyo

Pizzicato Five, often called the pioneers of the Shibuya-kei scene.

Their signature is dance pop infused with house, delivering a stylish sound that pairs catchy hooks with an edgy flair.

Among their tracks, the one I especially recommend is Tokyo wa Yoru no Shichiji (Tokyo at 7 p.m.).

Since it’s dance music, you might think the rhythm is tricky, but house is based on a four-on-the-floor beat—the easiest kind to follow—so there’s no need to worry.

The vocal line rises and falls gently, and the overall range is quite narrow, meaning anyone, regardless of their voice type, can sing it lightly and confidently.

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I want to be happy.Uchida Yuki

YUKI UCHIDA – I Want to Be Happy

Yuki Uchida has been active as an actress for many years.

Younger people might not know this, but for many women in their 40s, she also leaves a strong impression as a musical artist.

Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is “Shiawase ni Naritai” (“I Want to Be Happy”).

While the melody has some noticeable rises and falls, the overall tempo is relaxed, so you should be able to follow the pitch without trouble.

The vocal range is also narrow, making it a good choice to sing even when your voice is starting to tire at a second party.

Be sure to check it out.

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Lonely Tropical FishWink

Lonely Tropical Fish / Wink [Official Music Video]

Wink’s classic hit “Lonely Tropical Fish,” which became a massive success in 1989.

Their expressionless performance—unusual for idols—and the nostalgic synth-pop steeped in an ’80s vibe give it an indescribably emotional feel, don’t they? This song is also very easy to sing.

After all, you can practically sing it with a straight face.

While there are some higher notes, it’s not the kind of song where you belt from the diaphragm, so for the end of the chorus, it’s good to approach it as lightly as humming through your nose.

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Second LoveNakamori Akina

Akina Nakamori – Second Love

Akina Nakamori’s third single, released in November 1982.

Speaking of releases from ’82, here in 2019 most people in their 40s were still in elementary school back then, right? I imagine many of you watched her perform on TV music shows like The Best Ten at the time.

Now, about Second Love: it strongly reflects the era in which it was made—Showa-era kayōkyoku with a slight new-music flavor.

It doesn’t have the kind of complex melodies or chord progressions you find in modern songs; it’s very straightforward and easy for anyone to sing.

Even people who don’t usually sing might be able to handle it in the original key.

That said, because Akina Nakamori’s songs have a distinctive allure in the lower register, when you sing this, be mindful to support your voice well so the low notes don’t get swallowed up in the karaoke mix.

Also, take care with clear pronunciation so the lyrics don’t come out mumbled.

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SWEET MEMORIESMatsuda Seiko

SWEET MEMORIES ~Sweet Memories~ Music Video (YouTube Edit)

Seiko Matsuda is an idol who represents the 1980s—one of Japan’s most iconic idols.

She has left behind numerous classic songs, and among them I especially recommend “SWEET MEMORIES.” It’s one of her signature ballads.

Although the long note at the end of the chorus is a bit high, the song basically has a narrow vocal range.

It might not suit those who struggle with the English parts, but if that’s not an issue, it’s a song that can fit any type of voice.

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Dancing HeroOginome Yōko

Yoko Oginome / Dancing Hero (Eat You Up) MV [New Dance Ver.]

Thanks to the success of the Tōmioaka High School Dance Club, the song “Dancing Hero” has come back into the spotlight.

For those in their forties, it’s likely a nostalgic tune you remember from childhood.

While its upbeat disco sound is striking, the vocal line is actually quite simple.

That’s because the song never ventures into high notes and is sung entirely in the mid to low range.

It can be hard to project your voice at drinking gatherings, but this is a song you can sing comfortably even in those situations.

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