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Recommended Japanese pop songs for karaoke for men in their 40s

Has karaoke turned into nothing but a work obligation?

Singing with your boss or coworkers is important, but going to belt out your favorite songs with close friends or your partner feels amazing.

That rush you get the first time you sing a favorite song—while saying, “I don’t remember the lyrics at all!”—is the real charm of karaoke, isn’t it?

So this time, we’re introducing popular karaoke songs chosen by people in their 40s!

Recommended J-Pop karaoke songs for men in their 40s (101–110)

Christmas EveYamashita Tatsuro

Tatsuro Yamashita "Christmas Eve" Music Video
Christmas EveYamashita Tatsuro

This is Tatsuro Yamashita’s 12th single, released in December 1983.

Since it was used for JR Tokai’s “Christmas Express” campaign in 1988, it has become such a long-running hit that it’s listed in the Guinness World Records for J-pop singles, and it’s fair to call it a standard Japanese Christmas song.

It’s hard to imagine any man in his 40s today who hasn’t heard it.

The vocal melody and chord progression are very memorable and easy to hum along to, which I think is one reason it has been loved for so many years.

Not only for men in their 40s—the focus of this article—but for everyone, it’s a perfect karaoke staple to enjoy during the Christmas season.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi

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.

gloriousGLAY

The 1990s J-POP classic “Glorious” is a song that seems to embody the radiance of youth.

Its clear guitar tones and rhythmic drum beats fill listeners with brightness and exhilaration.

The lyrics are sprinkled with phrases that evoke the scenery of that era, easily conjuring images of people in their 40s passionately belting it out at karaoke.

Humming along to this song can suddenly revive the passion of younger days, bringing a warm surge to your chest.

With that sentiment in mind, it’s a number I especially recommend for those in their 40s.

loadTHE toraburyū

This song is a popular, heartrending classic that exudes melancholy.

It looks especially cool when sung by men around their forties.

It was such a big hit that I don’t think anyone from that generation doesn’t know it.

Many people probably listened to it often during their youth.

It’s an easy song for men to sing, and the relaxed tempo makes it a great choice for karaoke, too.

If you can sing it solidly with a manly presence, it’s sure to get the crowd going.

rose flowerkururi

Among men in their 40s who were into Japanese rock, Quruli likely left a strong impression.

Unlike other J-rock bands, many were captivated by their music’s emphasis on a distinct worldview.

Of all Quruli’s songs, the one I especially recommend is Bara no Hana (Rose Flower).

This track is characterized by an ennui-tinged musical style, with a correspondingly calm and composed vocal line.

While it does feature a fair number of sustained notes, it doesn’t demand much vocal power, so there’s no need to worry too much.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

Recommended Japanese pop songs for karaoke for men in their 40s (111–120)

A Tearful RequestChekkāzu

Request of Tears - The Checkers - 1984
A Tearful RequestChekkāzu

If you’re in your 40s, some of you might have listened to The Checkers in real time.

It might be a slightly older generation, but many people know them! I’m sure there were plenty of boys who admired The Checkers when they were kids, so now that you’re adults, why not make that dream come true at karaoke? It’ll definitely get the crowd going!

No more tears are neededSuzuki Masayuki

Songs that are easy to sing often end up with simple melodies, which can make them feel a bit lacking in allure.

I imagine many men in their 40s want to sing songs that are both easy to sing and have a sensual vibe.

That’s why I recommend “Mou Namida wa Iranai” (No More Tears).

It’s a pop ballad with an R&B flavor, and the melody maintains a seductive feel throughout.

That said, the vocal lines have a lot in common with Japanese kayōkyoku, so there are more singable parts than you might expect.

Men in their 40s with rich, full voices should definitely give it a try.