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 (11–20)
Take back the love!!kurisutaru kingu
Characterized by powerful sound and a strong, commanding vocal, this song portrays a man who fights to protect the one he loves and reclaim a lost future.
Even in a world shrouded in darkness, it celebrates belief in love and an unyielding spirit, and is widely known as a classic that resonates with many listeners.
Released in October 1984, the track gained major attention as the opening theme for the popular anime Fist of the North Star.
When you’re worn out by work or life, why not belt this one out and recharge? It will surely awaken the fiery passion sleeping in your heart.
OverMr.Children
Mr.Children is beloved by a wide range of people regardless of age or gender.
The song “Over” is included on Mr.Children’s fourth album, Atomic Heart, released in 1994, which became the best-selling domestic Japanese album at the time.
Many people in their 40s probably listened to this album a lot.
With lyrics and a melody that poignantly convey a man’s lingering feelings as he talks about the woman he broke up with, it’s a heartbreakingly beautiful number.
It’s sure to be a hit at karaoke, especially when you’re with people of the same generation.
Love Story Comes SuddenlyOda Kazumasa
As one of Kazumasa Oda’s signature hits, it remains a popular karaoke staple.
It was included as the B-side to the single “Oh! Yeah!” released on February 6, 1991.
Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Tokyo Love Story,” this track likely conjures up images of Honami Suzuki, who played the lead, and many people may find themselves smiling as they hear her say, “Kanji.”
Summer Days of 1993class
The music group class was created at the behest of a producer who wanted to form a duo like Simon & Garfunkel in Japan.
Their first single, “Natsu no Hi no 1993,” used as the theme song for the TV drama “Kimi to Itsumademo,” became a massive hit, achieving million-seller status despite being their debut.
For those in their forties—the generation of the time—it might be the first song that comes to mind when you think of summer.
With its distinctive, beautiful choral work, it’s a pop tune that’s perfect for two people to sing together at karaoke.
Like tonight’s moonElefanto Kashimashi
Debuting with the headline “An unprecedented newcomer makes a shocking debut,” Elephant Kashimashi is a four-piece rock band that has gained popularity for its commanding vocals and powerful band sound.
Their 15th single, ‘Koyoi no Tsuki no Yō ni’ (Like the Moon Tonight), was produced as the theme song for the TV drama ‘Tsuki no Kagayaku Yoru Dakara’ (Because It’s a Moonlit Night) and is a massive hit known as the band’s signature number.
For men in their forties, it may feel different to sing now than when they heard it in real time.
It’s an immortal classic that’s sure to fire up any karaoke session, especially with people of the same generation.
POISON ~A world where you can’t even say what you want to say~Sorimachi Takashi
Takashi Sorimachi has not only been active as an actor but also as a singer.
Many women in their 40s have likely been captivated by his allure.
Speaking of his signature songs, it has to be “POISON ~I can’t even say what I want to say in a world like this~.” The track gained nationwide popularity, partly because it was used as the theme song for the hit drama GTO.
While the song features a lot of low notes, its range is quite narrow at mid1 B to mid2 E, so there’s plenty of room to raise the key.
If you sing it in the right key, there’s nothing particularly difficult about it, so consider adding it to your repertoire.
Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio
Tamio Okuda’s classic “Eiju★Rider.” While Okuda has many great songs, this one, in particular, condenses a very characteristic sound of his into a cohesive core.
The vocal range is somewhat on the higher side, but the span itself is quite narrow, from mid1 C# to mid2 G#.
If you set it to the right key, it’s a song most people can sing without trouble.
It’s best performed without overbelting, with a slightly languid, nonchalant feel.
Give it a try as a reference.