RAG MusicBallad
Lovely ballad

A ballad that will definitely make you cry at karaoke

At after-parties following drinking sessions or celebrations, the mood can sometimes turn reflective.

This is especially common during karaoke at second parties for clubs or circles.

Many people might wonder, “What kind of songs should I sing at times like that?”

So this time, we’ve picked out some tear-jerking classics for those situations.

Assuming you’ll be singing them at karaoke, we’ve chosen songs that aren’t too difficult, so be sure to check them out!

Ballads That Always Make You Cry at Karaoke (1–10)

PierceONE OK ROCK

Pierce / ONE OK ROCK [With Lyrics and Translation]
PierceONE OK ROCK

Speaking of famous songs, there are several, but this one is a rare ballad for ONE OK ROCK and features many English lyrics.

When you listen to it knowing the Japanese translation, the feeling that “sometimes love alone can’t fix things” comes through and really resonates.

Only HumanK

A signature work by K, known for his moving vocals and heartfelt lyrics.

This exquisite ballad celebrates the strength to overcome life’s hardships and setbacks.

Released in November 2005, it garnered attention as the theme song for the drama “1 Litre of Tears.” It touched many hearts, breaking into the top 10 on the Oricon charts.

This song stands beside those struggling with worries and pain, casting a light of hope.

Sung at a karaoke gathering with a quiet, reflective mood—like after-parties or second rounds—it’s sure to gently warm the hearts of everyone around.

nape (of the neck)aiko

aiko - “Eriashi” music video
nape (of the neck)aiko

Opening with the sound of a beautiful piano, this is a supreme ballad from aiko.

The lyrics delicately trace lingering feelings for a past lover and memories that don’t fade even as the seasons turn, gently comforting hearts fresh from heartbreak.

While accepting the breakup, the earnest wish to meet again in a few years with a smile is a message that’s sure to tug at anyone’s heart.

Released in November 2003, this song was a lead single from the acclaimed album “Akatsuki no Love Letter” and was also performed at the 54th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It’s a piece that suits the quiet winter air—on nights when you want to cleanse your sadness, try singing it out and letting your overflowing emotions flow with it.

Ballads That Always Make You Cry at Karaoke (11–20)

The Toilet GodUemura Kana

A gem of a ballad that weaves together love and gratitude for family.

Through the habit of cleaning the toilet taught by her grandmother, it portrays how the protagonist learns what’s truly important in life.

Kana Uemura’s clear, pure vocals resonate as if gently embracing the listener’s heart.

Included on the mini-album “Watashi no Kakeratachi,” released in March 2010, this piece runs nearly ten minutes yet never wears out its welcome.

Memories with her grandmother and the protagonist’s growing inner world are depicted with care, making it a masterpiece that sinks deeper into the heart with every listen.

It’s the perfect song to play when you want to renew your feelings of gratitude toward someone important.

Since that day you weren’t here…Acid Black Cherry

Acid Black Cherry “Since That Day You’ve Been Gone” MV
Since that day you weren’t here…Acid Black Cherry

This song tries to deliver cherished memories and love to someone precious who is no longer here.

It was released as the concluding piece of “Project Shangri-la,” which began in response to the sorrow of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

The striking blend of a heavy band sound and gentle melody conveys a strong will to move forward, even amid uncertainty.

Because the memories with the person we can no longer meet are portrayed in such detail, the sense of grief feels all the more pronounced.

You can strongly feel the desire to keep telling the story of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the wish not to forget the sorrow even as time passes.

Song of the Eternal NightKami wa saikoro o furanai

God Does Not Play Dice “Yoru-Naga Uta” [Official Lyric Video]
Song of the Eternal NightKami wa saikoro o furanai

On sleepless nights, I suddenly remember someone precious who’s no longer by my side.

This is a tear-jerking rock ballad that sings of a heartbreak so intense it feels like your chest might burst.

It’s a work by the Fukuoka-born band God Doesn’t Roll Dice, included on their mini-album “A View on Lambda,” released in May 2019.

Starting with an intro that feels like turning back the hands of a clock, it builds to a dramatic chorus where emotions spill over all at once, sending shivers through your heart.

It also served as the theme song for the film “Little Subculture Wars: The Rebellion of Village Vanguard!” released in October 2020.

It’s a song that gently stays with you on nights when you can’t let go of a love you can’t forget, or when you want to sing your heart out and cry at karaoke.

366 daysHY

HY – “366 Days” Live Music Video
366 daysHY

A signature song by HY that portrays a heartrending love.

Its clear, translucent melody resonates deeply with listeners.

The lyrics depict an unrequited love with aching sorrow, yet they somehow convey a gentle warmth, making it easy for many to relate.

The track is included on the album “HeartY,” released in April 2008, and was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama and Toho-distributed film Red Thread.

It also appeared in a Kirin Afternoon Tea commercial.

It’s the perfect choice for creating a reflective mood at second gatherings like after-parties or post-event get-togethers.

If you sing it at karaoke, people around you will listen quietly, letting you deliver an emotionally moving performance.