Nostalgic Japanese Pop Hits That Get 40-Something Men and Women Excited
There are plenty of chances to end up at karaoke—whether it’s drinks with coworkers or reunions with old friends—but do you ever find yourself struggling to pick the right songs?
I’m not too familiar with recent hits, and if it’s a gathering of people from the same generation, I’d rather get everyone hyped with nostalgic tunes we listened to in our youth.
So in this article, I’ll introduce some great crowd-pleasers recommended for people in their 40s!
I’ve focused mainly on nostalgic songs from around the 1990s, so if you’re in your 40s, these tracks should bring back memories of your younger days.
Not only are they perfect for getting everyone in the same age group excited together, but they’re also timeless classics from the Japanese music scene—so there are plenty of songs that people of all ages can enjoy together!
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Recommended for men (1–10)
MarionetteBOØWY
BOØWY is a legendary rock band that still commands a devoted fan base today and features rock stars like Kyosuke Himuro and Tomoyasu Hotei, who remain active.
Their sixth single, “Marionette,” one of their signature songs, is a track whose intro guitar riff many people—whether or not they were guitar kids—have probably tried to play if they’re from that generation.
The melody is straightforward and doesn’t span a wide range, but because the pitch movement across the song is quite dynamic, you can easily slip up at karaoke if you let your guard down.
As a famous song, it’s a number we hope will be sung not only by people in their 40s who likely listened to it in their youth, but by a wide range of generations.
TSUNAMISazan Ōrusutāzu
With this classic by Southern All Stars, you’re guaranteed to shine at karaoke! The lyrics, weaving together the joys and pains of love, are striking, and Keisuke Kuwata’s vocals are deeply moving.
Released in January 2000, it became a major hit, winning that year’s Japan Record Award.
It was also used as a TV show theme song and is loved across generations.
It’s perfect for wrapping up a night out or singing with heartfelt feelings for someone special.
If everyone raises their voices together, it’s sure to become a wonderful, unforgettable memory.
cherrysupittsu
It’s a masterpiece whose clear, beautiful melody resonates deep in the heart.
It weaves together memories of a faint romance and the resolve to move forward after overcoming them.
Released in April 1996 as one of Spitz’s signature songs, it topped the Oricon charts and became a million-seller.
It’s also very popular for karaoke and is sure to liven up drinking parties and school reunions.
It’s the perfect song for men in their 40s who feel nostalgic about their youth.
SakurazakaFukuyama Masaharu
Masaharu Fukuyama’s masterpiece is a song that poignantly expresses feelings for a former lover, leaving a deep impression on many listeners.
Used as a TV show theme song, it was released in April 2000.
The piece also carries special significance as a work commemorating the 10th anniversary of Fukuyama’s debut.
While holding the pain of heartbreak, it conveys a wish for the other person’s happiness—its relatable lyrics and memorable melody are its charms.
It’s a perfect track for men in their 40s to get fired up with at karaoke, so give it a try!
Recommended for men (11–20)
HOWEVERGLAY
Released in 1997, this hit song was GLAY’s first million-seller.
Among their many hits, it stands out as a gently delivered ballad.
TERU’s soulful vocals are striking, and it’s a popular track that’s sure to get everyone excited at karaoke while reminiscing about those days.
Listening to this song really makes you want to go to karaoke, doesn’t it?
As I love you selfishly, I won’t hurt anyone but you.B’z
“Ai no mama ni wagamama ni boku wa kimi dake o kizutsukenai” is a song released in 1993 by the rock duo B’z.
Sing it at karaoke and the length of the title alone will be a great conversation starter—instant crowd-pleaser! The track sold over two million copies and achieved an extraordinary run on the Oricon charts, ranking No.
1 for four consecutive weeks.
As a result, it’s beloved across generations as one of B’z’s signature songs.
It was also used as the theme song for the 1993 remake of the TV drama Journey to the West (Saiyuki).
If you’re from the same generation, it might help you bond with others who watched the show too!
Rose of PassionTHE BLUE HEARTS
A classic hit released by THE BLUE HEARTS in the 1990s.
The lyrics, themed around a passionate rose, express eternity, truth, and the inner conflicts of human beings.
Carrying a message to nurture the powerful emotions deep within our hearts, it has become a song that resonates with many.
Released in July 1990, it became the band’s first single to reach No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
It was also used as a TV drama theme song and has been loved across generations.
Its catchy chorus and Hiroto Kōmoto’s powerful vocals leave a strong impression, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at karaoke.
It’s perfect for moments like company parties or class reunions when you want to have fun while feeling a touch of nostalgia.