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[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing songs by Gen Hoshino
Singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino, who came into the spotlight with “Koi,” the theme song for the drama in which he appeared, “We Married as a Job!” (Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu), has continued to release buzzworthy tracks such as “Idea,” “Doraemon,” “Uchi de Odorou,” and “Isekai Kongo Daibu Tokai” (Mixed-World Grand Dance Party).
His songs are not only popular but also often have relatively narrow vocal ranges, making many of them easy to sing at karaoke.
While it takes practice to sing with the expressive nuance that Gen Hoshino does, in this article we’ve selected karaoke-friendly songs from various angles—such as vocal range, pitch, and recognition level.
Feel free to use it as a reference.
[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing songs by Gen Hoshino (1–10)
SUNHoshino Gen
This is one of Gen Hoshino’s signature songs, notable for its strong rhythm that strongly evokes elements of soul music and funk.
It’s said to have been written as the theme song for the drama “Kokoro ga Pokitto ne,” with the script used as a reference during its creation.
The powerful, resonant rhythm is one of the song’s major attractions, so it’s best to keep that rhythm firmly in mind when singing.
The song portrays a gentle sense of uplift throughout, so how much joy you can infuse into your performance is also key.
The tempo is moderate as well, so once you get a feel for the groove, it should be relatively easy to sing.
IdeaHoshino Gen
Gen Hoshino’s song “Idea,” released in 2018, served as the theme for the NHK morning drama series “Half, Blue,” and drew widespread attention for its innovative music video.
Portraying the importance of discovering new ideas and solutions through the various emotions and events encountered in everyday life, the piece stands out for its creative message.
Its refreshing melody is approachable, and the relatively narrow vocal range makes it friendly for karaoke beginners and a broad audience alike.
Incidentally, within about ten days of its release, it racked up 5.5 million online views, leaving a strong impression on many listeners.
Why not ride this rhythm and try expressing Gen Hoshino’s unique worldview yourself?
Otherworldly Mixed Grand Ball (feat. Ghost)Hoshino Gen
Speaking of Gen Hoshino, his catchy melodies and warm vocals have captivated many listeners.
His song “Isekai Kongo Dai Butokai (feat.
Obake)” served as the theme song for a film released in 2022 and showcases Hoshino’s own spirit of musical exploration.
The piece centers on the theme of blending fantastical ideas with reality.
With a relatively narrow vocal range and uncomplicated rhythm, it’s an easy pick for karaoke, welcoming singers from beginners to advanced.
Hello SongHoshino Gen
This is a cheerful song that portrays the way meeting people broadens your world and the exhilaration that comes from it.
The fact that it was used in AC Japan’s 2016 commercial “Rival wa 1964-nen” also conveys a sense of connection with the wider world.
Because there are many words, the melodic rises and falls aren’t too frequent, so try singing while firmly keeping hold of the song’s light, rhythmic groove.
If you treat the greeting phrases—the song’s central theme—with care as you sing, the sense of uplift the piece carries should come across clearly.
Family songHoshino Gen
It’s a song that conveys deep affection, depicting someone wishing happiness for a loved one in sync with its warm sound.
It’s also memorable for being chosen as the theme song for the drama “Overprotected Kahoko,” and the songwriter has said they referenced the script and wrote the lyrics while reflecting on “what family is.” The gentle, piano-centered rhythm and the vocal line with minimal pitch movement make it relatively easy to sing.
Precisely because the tempo is slow, it’s important to stay mindful of the rhythm so the singing doesn’t become weak.
To deliver the message of the lyrics, I recommend paying close attention to how you finish phrases and to dynamic contrast throughout your performance.
scattered; in pieces; all over the placeHoshino Gen
The songs included on Gen Hoshino’s debut album “Baka no Uta” carry a message of seeking coexistence while respecting individual differences.
Released in June 2010, this track holds an important place as the starting point of Hoshino’s music career.
It features a simple melody and a plain, spoken delivery that highlights the depth of the lyrics.
At the 2024 Kōhaku Uta Gassen, Hoshino performed the piece solo with guitar, leaving a strong impression on viewers.
It’s a perfect song for those who want to feel the complexity of human relationships and the importance of respecting individuality, as well as for anyone who wants to discover Hoshino’s origins.
If you can sing it at karaoke, it’s a wonderful number that can change the atmosphere of the room.
Why Don’t You Play in Hell?Hoshino Gen
This song creates a curious world by contrasting a lively sound filled with cheerful piano and rhythms against lyrics that convey suffering.
It also drew attention for being released during the artist’s hiatus, and it was written specifically as the theme song for the film “Why Don’t You Play in Hell?”.
You can feel the strength of emotion in the way it portrays someone struggling to live joyfully, despite the many forms of pain in the world.
The vocals have a relaxed ease that matches the light, buoyant sound, so as long as you lock into the rhythm, it’s a piece you can sing with an enjoyable vibe.
Week EndHoshino Gen
It’s a song with a light, rhythmic melody that leaves a strong impression.
The lyrics express the sense of freedom and release that comes with the weekend, and they convey a positive outlook toward the future.
Included on the album “YELLOW DANCER,” released in December 2015, it was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Mezamashi Doyoubi.” The track captures Gen Hoshino’s signature playfulness and showcases a fresh musicality infused with elements of Black music.
It’s perfectly refreshing for weekend mornings and has an easy-to-sing feel that makes it great for karaoke—ideal for boosting your mood from the start of the day or getting the crowd going with friends.
The key isn’t too high, making it comfortable to sing.
Friend ShipHoshino Gen
Friend Ship is a song that sings about the depth of everyday happiness and affection.
It’s the final track on the acclaimed 2015 album YELLOW DANCER.
With its gentle melody and vocals that sit at an average pitch range, it’s likely an easy song for many men to sing.
Gen’s questioning, conversational delivery is striking, so keeping that in mind may help it feel even more natural.
Aim to sing the phrase endings and the chorus with a smooth, expansive tone.
In the midst of the trivialHoshino Gen
It’s a love song that portrays the parts of a precious person you find especially endearing, while wishing for the continuation of ordinary happiness—silliness and all.
It’s also noteworthy that this was released as Gen Hoshino’s first single as a solo artist.
Built around acoustic guitar, the simple arrangement makes the lyrics’ message stand out even more.
The vocal delivery has a quiet, confiding feel, so rather than worrying too much about pitch, it might be best to focus on a gentle, narrative style of singing.