Popular Japanese songs among women in their 40s: recommended classics and standard hits

Angel’s RestHisamatsu Fumina

Fumina Hisamatsu “Angel’s Repose” Official MV

Fumina Hisamatsu is a female singer who gained popularity for her musical style that blends glam rock and soft rock into J-pop.

She has a slightly low, full-bodied voice, and her hallmark is a husky, powerhouse vocal style reminiscent of male rock singers.

Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is Tenshi no Kyūsoku (Angel’s Rest).

If you’re a rock fan in your late 40s, you might have listened to it back in the day.

While the song is notable for its strong, driving melody, it sits mainly in the low-to-mid range and has a relatively narrow vocal range, making it a piece that suits many different voice types.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Ryo

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The Talent for LoveKawamoto Makoto

[MV] Makoto Kawamoto - 'The Talent for Love'

Makoto Kawamoto, known as a pioneer among guitar-playing female singers, has left us with many great songs.

Among them, the one I especially recommend for women in their 40s because it’s easy to sing is “Ai no Sainō” (The Talent for Love).

Since singer-songwriter Yasuyuki Okamura composed it, the track leans a bit toward groove, but the vocal range is narrow, so the overall difficulty is fairly low.

If you lock into the rhythm, you can likely aim for a high score at karaoke.

Be sure to add it to your repertoire.

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Ryo

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Marigoldaimyon

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Aimyong’s songs have a timeless appeal that’s independent of trends, making them popular across generations.

“Marigold,” released in 2018, marked her major breakthrough.

Its somewhat nostalgic melody evokes the early Heisei era, making it very pleasant to listen to and a classic that resonates with people of all ages.

For women in their 40s who say, “I mostly listen to the J-pop from my youth, but I want to try singing something more recent…,” I highly recommend Aimyong’s songs.

“Marigold” sits on the lower side pitch-wise and doesn’t have an extreme vocal range, so even those with lower voices or who feel insecure about singing should give it a try!

You’re My Only Shinin’ StarNagayama Miho

You’re My Only Shinin’ Star

It’s a romantic ballad that beautifully portrays a moonlit scene.

The song weaves feelings of a miraculous encounter and a vow of eternal love together with a gentle melody.

Under the starry sky, it’s a graceful tale that will resonate in your heart, making you want to listen while thinking of the one you love.

Miho Nakayama’s clear, translucent voice tenderly embraces an emotionally rich world that spins a story of everlasting love.

Released in February 1988 and crafted by Toshiki Kadomatsu, the piece reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It also left a strong impression as an insert song for the TBS drama “Mama wa Idol!” starring Nakayama, and won the Japan Record Awards Gold Prize.

It’s recommended for moments when you want to step away from the busyness of daily life and savor your gratitude for someone special.

Why not spend a calm moment immersing yourself in this heartwarming, gentle love story?

Lover of Möbiusushirogami hikaretai

Lover of Möbius

A lyrical love song that layers an endlessly continuing romance over a Möbius strip.

Though it’s an idol song that sings of eternal love, Yasushi Akimoto’s lyrics, infused with philosophical notions like déjà vu and past lives, harmonize beautifully with Tsugutoshi Gotō’s graceful melody.

Ushirogami Hikaretai released the song in November 1987, and it reached No.

4 on the Oricon charts.

It was also included on the album “BAB” and became well-loved as the ending theme for the Fuji TV anime “Tsuideni Tonchinkan.” It’s a recommended track for twilight dates or when you want to sink into memories of first love.

Savor this gem of a pop tune—brimming with the bittersweet ache of youth—in a moment of quiet.

JupiterHirahara Ayaka

[Ayaka Hirahara] 'Jupiter' MV Full Ver.

Ayaka Hirahara’s debut song presents a grand classical masterpiece theme with approachable lyrics and a brilliant arrangement.

Its beautiful melody and crystal-clear vocals offer deep comfort to those facing loneliness or anxiety, making it a moving piece.

Since its release in December 2003, it has remained a long-selling favorite and was also used as an insert song in the TBS drama “Mr.

Kinpachi in Class 3-B.” With Masayuki Sakamoto’s elegant arrangement and Hirahara’s expressive singing, the track is crafted to be easy and pleasant for anyone to sing.

Why not try it at karaoke when you want to cherish bonds with friends or need the courage to believe in yourself?

PowerPoketto Bisuketsu

Power

Pocket Biscuits is a musical unit born from the variety show “Ucchan Nanchan no Urinari!!”.

Their fifth single “POWER,” released after collecting 1,784,892 signatures as part of a project on the show, became a hit and the group’s only No.

1 on the Oricon singles chart.

The ensemble, featuring Chiaki’s clear, soaring high-tone vocals, amps up the energy with its driving beat.

It’s a refreshing pop tune that I’d recommend as a karaoke pick or background music for people in their 40s who grew up with it.

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Hoshino Takashi

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