Funny songs recommended for men in their 40s

Cheer upTakeuchi Mariya

Cheer Up – Mariya Takeuchi

Mariya Takeuchi, known as an iconic figure from the golden era of city pop in the J-POP scene and still actively creating music today, is a singer-songwriter whose song “Genki wo Dashite” was originally written for Hiroko Yakushimaru.

Though later self-covered and released as her 17th single, it has become one of Takeuchi’s signature tracks.

Its lyrics gently comfort and encourage wounded hearts, offering solace—perhaps especially to men in their 40s who may often carry work-related stress.

With its relaxed tempo that makes it easy to sing, it’s a timeless classic that never loses its luster.

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Hoshino Takashi

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YOUNG MAN (Y.M.C.A.)Saijō Hideki

Hideki Saijo – Young Man (Y.M.C.A.)

Released in 1979 as Hideki Saijo’s 28th single.

It is a song that adapts the Village People’s then-hit “Y.M.C.A.” with Japanese lyrics as a youth anthem and cheer song, arranged in a pop style.

The choreography—using the whole body to form the four letters Y, M, C, and A—became a hot topic for conveying a universal message to the world.

It remains a beloved classic across generations.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

Cheers

This is a renowned song that has continued to resonate with many as an anthem celebrating life’s new beginnings.

Originally released in September 1980 on the album “Kampai,” it vividly depicts a celebratory scene lit by candlelight and carries a warm message of encouragement for a friend taking their first step forward.

Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s powerful vocals deliver hope and courage for the future.

In 1988, it was re-recorded and released as a single, becoming a major hit that reached No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

In the early 1990s, it was also featured in commercials for Kirin Lager Beer, further boosting its recognition.

To this day, it remains a timeless song passed down through the years, often chosen to convey heartfelt feelings to loved ones at important milestones in life, such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.

Upside-Down SkySMAP

Upside-Down Sky (Cover ver.)

It’s sure to bring a lump to your throat as you remember your younger days.

This is a song by SMAP, the idol group that remains nationally beloved even after disbanding, released in 2012 as their 47th single.

Chosen as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Umechan-sensei,” it became a hot topic.

It’s a wonderfully uplifting anthem with a positive message—“Don’t get discouraged; keep looking forward”—that gives you courage.

It’s the kind of mindset we’d all like to carry through life.

Men listening to it will surely feel their spirits lift as well.

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Araki Jakkan

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Banzai ~ So glad I loved you ~Urufuruzu

Ulfuls – Banzai ~I'm Glad I Fell in Love~

“Banzai ~Suki de Yokatta~” by Ulfuls is a very moving song.

Not only that, it’s also an uplifting anthem that cheers you up after listening.

I especially hope people in their 30s will sing it at karaoke—it’s sure to get the crowd going.

HOMEKiyama Yusaku

Yusaku Kiyama - Home

Yusaku Kiyama’s famous song “HOME” is truly a moving anthem for men in their thirties.

Many people in their thirties get married and start their own families.

This song is written from a father’s perspective, thinking of his family.

Pay attention to the lyrics as you listen.

Let’s do our best.SMAP

Let's do our best.

This song is just perfect for office workers in their 40s.

It has that “let’s do our best again tomorrow!” vibe—how about singing it once after work? It might leave both your mind and body feeling refreshed.

Japanese office workers really do have it tough, don’t they?