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Singable Ghibli Classics: A selection of beloved hits cherished by people of all ages

Studio Ghibli continues to produce beloved, nationally treasured animated films.

Their many masterpieces are known not only for their stories, but also for their wonderful music.

Many of you probably have your own “favorite Ghibli song,” don’t you? This time, from among the classic Ghibli hits that are popular for karaoke and choir competitions, we’ll introduce recommended picks under the theme of “easy-to-sing Ghibli songs.” We’ve selected tracks with relatively narrow vocal ranges, so even those who aren’t confident in their singing should definitely take a look!

[Easy-to-Sing Ghibli Masterpieces] A selection of beloved popular songs cherished by a wide audience (21–30)

Message of RougeMatsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Rouge no Dengon (Yumi Matsutoya Concert Tour The Universe Library 2016-2017)
Message of RougeMatsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya’s classic “Message of Rouge.” Its nostalgic melody evokes the Showa era and leaves a strong impression.

Released in 1975, the song was used 14 years later, in 1989, as the opening theme for the Studio Ghibli film Kiki’s Delivery Service.

The vocal range spans from mid1 F# to hi D#, which is relatively wide; while the pitch movement becomes fairly intense toward the end of the chorus, the overall tempo is relaxed and the song builds beautifully, making it a great choice for karaoke.

Kiki's Delivery Service

The revolving seasonsInoue Azumi

Used in the film Kiki’s Delivery Service, this is a grand piece with exquisitely layered strings.

As you’re captivated by the intro, the start of the vocals overwhelms you with a beautiful, noble melody.

The accompaniment and vocals are powerful, yet there’s a hint of loneliness that seems to perfectly match Kiki’s feelings as she leaves home to work on her own.

Nausicaä RequiemHisaishi Mai

Mai and Mai vol.2: “Nausicaä Requiem”
Nausicaä RequiemHisaishi Mai

This song is famous for its humming.

Back when it came out, people were buzzing about who the girl singing it might be, and it was later revealed to be Mai Hisaishi, daughter of Joe Hisaishi, which drew even more attention.

Mai Hisaishi has since begun her career as a singer.

She continues to perform this piece—originally sung when she was a child—with her mature voice, so be sure to check it out.

Howl's Moving Castle

Promise of the WorldBaishō Chieko

The Promise of the World / Chieko Baisho cover by Yurina
Promise of the WorldBaishō Chieko

In addition to the film’s brilliance, Howl’s Moving Castle drew major attention for having Takuya Kimura as a voice actor.

This song might be somewhat minor, but the fact that there’s even a choral score shows how well-loved it is! Its gentle triple-meter melody adds a lovely accent that makes the Ghibli world even more beautiful.

Porco Rosso

When the cherries ripenKatō Tokiko

When the Cherries Ripen: Tokiko Kato 55th Anniversary
When the cherries ripenKatō Tokiko

The song “Le Temps des cerises,” a classic that represents French chanson, was featured as an insert song in the Studio Ghibli film Porco Rosso.

When you listen to it, the scene with Madam Gina singing comes right to mind, doesn’t it? Of course, the original is in French, but there’s a Japanese version as well, so be sure to choose that one when you sing it at karaoke.

Porco Rosso

Sometimes, old storiesKatō Tokiko

Sometimes Old Stories - Tokiko Kato - Porco Rosso
Sometimes, old storiesKatō Tokiko

With its memorable iconic lines, the 1992 Studio Ghibli film Porco Rosso features Tokiko Kato’s “Toki ni wa Mukashi no Hanashi wo” (“Sometimes, Let’s Talk of the Old Days”) over the ending.

Kato also performed the opening song, “Le temps des cerises” (“The Time of Cherries”), and even took part as a voice actor in the film.

Its mature melody and lyrics don’t feel like a typical anime song at first glance, making it a smart, insider pick for karaoke.

Even if full-on anison isn’t really your thing, this track is no problem.

If you want to try singing a more grown-up anime song, why not give this one a shot?

From Up on Poppy Hill

I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu

Walk, Looking Up – 'Sukiyaki' – Kyu Sakamoto (Sakamoto Kyu) 1961.avi
I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu

Sukiyaki (Ue o Muite Arukou), Kyu Sakamoto’s signature song that everyone has heard at least once, was used as an insert song in Studio Ghibli’s 2011 film From Up on Poppy Hill.

In the movie, the song is heard playing on the television.

Director Hayao Miyazaki apparently had another song in mind, but producer Toshio Suzuki recommended this one.

Its relaxed melody and bittersweet lyrics that resonate with anyone make you stop and listen.

It’s a great pick for karaoke for all genders!