![[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing songs by Yosui Inoue](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/4DO_Wr5hXmo/maxresdefault.webp)
One of the most indispensable singer-songwriters in the Japanese music scene, Yosui Inoue.
Since his debut as a singer in 1969, he has released numerous hit songs such as “Kasa ga Nai” and “Shonen Jidai.”
He came to be recognized as a leading figure in the genre known at the time as “New Music.”
Even in his more rhythmic numbers, his vocals and musicality have a distinctive, slightly ennui-laden atmosphere.
In this article, we’ve picked out some of Yosui Inoue’s songs that are especially easy to sing at karaoke.
Be sure to read to the end!
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[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing songs by Yosui Inoue (1–10)
An outright serenadeInoue Yosui
Yosui Inoue’s “Isso Serenade” is a beautiful ballad steeped in melancholy, perfect for keeping you company on long autumn nights.
Released in 1984, it drew attention as the image song for Suntory’s Kakubin whisky commercials and sold over 350,000 copies.
Its especially poignant intro is captivating, making it ideal for grabbing everyone’s attention right at the start in karaoke.
The slow tempo also makes it relatively easy to sing well after just a few practice runs.
For the long sustained notes in the latter half of the chorus, sing gently without forcing your voice—you’ll capture the original’s nuanced flavor.
Riverside HotelInoue Yosui
Released in 1982, Yosui Inoue’s “Riverside Hotel” didn’t draw much attention at first, but later climbed to No.
11 on the Oricon chart and came to be recognized as one of his signature songs.
With its distinctive vocal timbre, melodic line, and intriguingly cryptic lyrics, this track leaves a strong impression and is a great pick when you want something a bit different for karaoke.
Its slow tempo makes it approachable even if faster songs aren’t your strong suit.
Try singing it with emotion while picturing a seaside hotel!
I don’t knowInoue Yosui
The title certainly makes an impact, but in fact, as you can tell from the lyrics, this “Wakannai” is an answer song to Kenji Miyazawa’s ‘Be Not Defeated by the Rain.’ It’s a track from Yosui-san’s highly acclaimed 1982 masterpiece album ‘LION & PELICAN,’ and it’s a gem where the stylish arrangement, Yosui’s theatrical vocal delivery, and lyrics that shine with a unique sensibility all come together beautifully.
With chord progressions and melodic turns characteristic of Yosui, it shouldn’t be too difficult if you’re used to singing Inoue Yosui’s songs.
Conversely, if you’re not, you might find the rhythmic feel and melodic lines a bit perplexing at first, but even those who struggle with high notes can definitely take on this song.
Give it multiple listens and be sure to master that signature Inoue Yosui style!
JealousyInoue Yosui
Yosui Inoue’s “Jealousy” is a captivating number with a distinctive worldview centered on the theme of jealousy.
Its lyrics poetically express emotions drifting in envy, and if you sing it when you’re struggling with romantic jealousy, those feelings should gradually soften.
His languid, ennui-tinged delivery, which conveys an inexpressible sense of frustration, makes you want to imitate it.
While his songs—old and new—continue to captivate many fans, this piece stands out as a particularly long-running hit.
If you’ve never sung his music at karaoke, why not start by giving this song a try?
East and WestInoue Yosui
Literary and strongly message-driven, “Higashi e Nishi e” is a cynical cheer-up song also known for being covered by actor Masahiro Motoki.
Featured on Yosui Inoue’s second album, “Yosui II: Sentimental,” released in 1972, the track enjoys high recognition despite not being a single.
That makes it a crowd-pleaser at karaoke.
Its vocal range isn’t wide, so even those who aren’t confident singers can give it a try.
When you need one more push with your studies or work, sing this song and get fired up!
BoyhoodInoue Yosui
You can grasp the allure of Yosui Inoue’s songwriting and vocals in an instant by listening to his signature song, “Shonen Jidai.” Its lingering melody and ensemble, woven from a sense of floating and gentle melancholy, have even been included in middle and high school textbooks, making it beloved by many.
The song is perhaps the best example of Inoue’s musicality.
At the same time, with its simple melody and slower tempo, it’s an easy pick for karaoke.
Since people of all ages know it, it could be a great one for parents and children to sing together.
I don’t have an umbrella.Inoue Yosui
If you can’t find an Inoue Yosui song that feels right for karaoke, you can’t go wrong with singing “Kasa ga Nai” (“I Don’t Have an Umbrella”).
Since its 1972 release, this piece has captivated many with its distinctive vocals and moving lyrics, and it’s no exaggeration to say it represents his early work.
In particular, the rhythmically driven yet ennui-tinged musicality is brilliantly expressed, and once you actually try singing it, you may find yourself getting hooked.
The lyrics are structured like a story, so if you sing while visualizing the scenes, you’ll likely be able to recreate the song’s world more deeply.