Easy-to-sing karaoke songs: Classic picks for women in their 40s

IN MY ARMS TONIGHTZARD

zard – in my arms tonight

Among the Being label artists who dominated the J-POP scene in the 1990s, this song is the fifth single by ZARD, a music unit that enjoyed overwhelming popularity.

It was used as the theme song for the TV drama “School ga Abunai,” and it was later revealed after vocalist Izumi Sakai’s passing that singer-songwriter Maki Ohguro had contributed chorus vocals.

Thanks to its generally low key, it’s easy to sing and a perfect pick for women in their 40s who likely spent their youth in the 1990s.

However, be mindful that the final phrase of the chorus involves a large melodic leap, which requires attention and practice.

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Hoshino Takashi

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planetariumOtsuka Ai

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

Ai Otsuka’s songs, woven from deep sorrow and vivid memories, beautifully transmute the scars of heartbreak.

The aching feelings of love and sense of loss are reflected in lyrics that sparkle like stars in the night sky, sure to strike a powerful chord with listeners.

Released in September 2005, the work drew major attention, including being selected as an image song for the drama “Boys Over Flowers.” While standing by the pain of a broken heart, this track also gives you the courage to look forward and take your next steps.

Please take your time and listen closely to the voice and words that will seep into your heart.

You’ll surely feel the strength to take a new step forward.

Fall in LoveKobayashi Akiko

Hideto Tokunaga / Fall in Love

A perennial karaoke favorite, “Koi ni Ochite -Fall in love-” is known for its timeless melody that never fades with the years.

Set to a gentle piano line, the lyrics portray both the joy and the poignancy of love, resonating across generations.

In particular, it’s a song that women in their 40s can easily pour emotion into and express without needing exceptional vocal prowess.

When expressing your individuality at karaoke, this song invites deep emotional immersion, richly reflecting the singer’s feelings.

As the song progresses and emotions swell, you’ll be able to let a pleasant, resonant voice fill the room.

Azure RabbitNoriko Sakai

Noriko Sakai “Blue Rabbit” Music Video

Noriko Sakai, affectionately known as Nori-P, has also been active as a singer and has left behind several classic songs.

Among them, the one I especially recommend for women in their 40s as an easy song to sing is Aoi Usagi (Blue Rabbit).

Incorporating elements of kayōkyoku, it features a mellow, easy-to-sing Japanese melody throughout.

In addition, there are no high-pitched parts, so women in their 40s should be able to sing it without any trouble.

If you like mature melodies, be sure to give this song a try.

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Ryo

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GLAMOROUS SKYNANA starring MIKA NAKASHIMA

Mika Nakashima “GLAMOROUS SKY” Music Video (4K Video)

“GLAMOROUS SKY,” released as the theme song for the movie NANA.

The lyrics were written by Ai Yazawa, the original creator of NANA, and the composition/production was handled by HYDE—an all-star team behind a song that took the world by storm! The song’s range isn’t too high and is comfortable for most female singers, so many people probably enjoy singing it.

However, at the end of the second chorus, the highest note E5 appears.

This is a spot you’ll want to nail with style! Syllables in the “ma” row tend to resonate nasally, making them harder to project than other sounds.

So try singing with more strength than you think you need! Be sure to place solid accents in time with this section.

If the key feels tough, starting in head voice is fine.

As you get used to it, you’ll be able to produce a stronger head voice—engage your lower abdomen and add those accents!

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Kubota Mami

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BELIEVEMISIA

MISIA – BELIEVE （Official HD Music Video）

For more recent listeners, MISIA is probably strongly associated with being a classic, orthodox diva, but for women in their 40s, doesn’t she evoke more of an R&B singer image? Among her songs from that era, the one I especially recommend is BELIEVE.

Although the chorus features a high-pitched phrase with quite dramatic pitch jumps, most of the rest sits in the low-to-mid range.

Since there are repeated falsetto passages, if you’re not comfortable with head voice, try lowering the key before you tackle it.

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Ryo

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Moon DropsRUI

Tsukino Shizuku

A gemlike ballad that lyrically portrays the fragility and beauty of a heart in love, likening it to moonlight.

Ko Shibasaki’s clear, translucent vocals bring deep emotion to the story.

Released in January 2003 as the theme song for the film “Yomigaeri,” it topped the Oricon charts.

Selling over 830,000 copies, this major hit also drew attention as a song credited to RUI, the singer portrayed by Ko Shibasaki.

A heartrending yet warmly evocative piece that revives memories of the time alongside the film’s iconic scenes.