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Challenge yourself with difficult songs at karaoke! Tracks that will earn you praise if you can sing them well

Even when you think, “I want to try this song at karaoke!”, once you actually give it a shot you sometimes run into unexpected hurdles—like a range that’s too wide or rhythms that are too complex.

What technical elements make certain songs difficult to sing? In this article, we’re featuring high-difficulty tracks that are especially rewarding to tackle at karaoke.

We also touch on which parts are challenging and what kind of vocal approach is required, so if you want to expand your expressive range as a singer, be sure to check it out!

Challenge tough songs at karaoke! Tracks that will earn you praise if you can sing them well (261–270)

DynamiteSuperfly

Superfly “Dynamite” Music Video
DynamiteSuperfly

This is the sixth digital-only single by the Japanese music unit Superfly, released on May 23, 2022.

Vocalist Shiho Ochi has been known for her powerful singing voice since their debut, and that powerhouse voice is fully on display in this track as well! The song is crafted into a powerful rock number that perfectly matches its title.

If you sing with so-called “throat voice,” merely pushing from the mouth, you’ll never capture this power and soulfulness.

To sing this song, the first requirement is to develop a strong, supported vocal technique.

When practicing this song, be careful not to strain or damage your throat.

Armor of the heartSuperfly

Superfly “Armor of the Heart” Music Video
Armor of the heartSuperfly

An artist known for powerful vocals.

Their wide vocal range, capable of both low and high notes, is captivating, and this song showcases that appeal to the fullest.

The chorus interweaves low and high notes, making it difficult to stay on pitch.

It gained attention as the theme song for “Yamikin Ushijima-kun Part 3.”

A bouquet of flowers with loveSuperfly

Superfly “A Bouquet With Love” Music Video
A bouquet of flowers with loveSuperfly

Superfly’s fourth single, released in 2008, is “Ai o Komete Hanataba o” (“A Bouquet with Love”).

It’s one of her signature songs, chosen as the theme for the TBS drama Edison no Haha (Edison’s Mother).

This track showcases Superfly’s prowess, especially her powerful high notes, with a chorus that keeps climbing into a high melodic line.

Because she uses a middle voice that resonates in the nasal cavity even in the high range, she can produce a solid, powerful sound with plenty of presence.

Lovers’ PavementTHE ALFEE

THE ALFEE – Lovers’ Pavement [2016 Winter Fest]
Lovers' PavementTHE ALFEE

This is The Alfee’s 19th single, released in October 1984.

The biggest challenge in singing this song is, without a doubt, Takamizawa’s high-tone lead vocals.

Since it’s a ballad, you can’t cover things up with sheer energy.

It’s sung with a very clear, soaring high register.

In that sense, it might be ideal as a practice piece for singing high notes—but don’t push yourself.

As long as you set the key to what suits you best, the melody itself isn’t that difficult, so it’s a good idea to gradually raise the key as your vocal range expands.

Challenge tough songs at karaoke! Tracks that will earn you praise if you can pull them off (271–280)

Seven Days of the WeekU-zhaan×Tamaki ROY×Chinza DOPENESS

U-zhaan × Tamaki Roy × Chinza DOPENESS / Seven Days (Nana-Youbi)
Seven Days of the WeekU-zhaan×Tamaki ROY×Chinza DOPENESS

The work Shichiyoubi features accomplished rappers like U-zhaan, Tamaki Roy, and Chinza DOPENESS performing together.

It doesn’t showcase soaring high notes or lightning-fast rap, yet it contains a unique difficulty you won’t find in typical tracks.

The reason lies in the meter.

The piece is structured in a very rare 7/4 rhythm, which is particularly hard for us Japanese listeners to groove to.

The beat is so tricky and peculiar that even the opening vocal entry can get lost—so by all means, give it a try.

Heaven and HellUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Heaven and Hell” LIVE MUSIC VIDEO
Heaven and HellUNISON SQUARE GARDEN

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN has many high-difficulty songs, with wide vocal ranges and fast tempos.

This song also has a unique rhythm and pitch, so it may be the kind of track that those who struggle with it really struggle with.

The same artist’s “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is also very challenging.

PRAYING RUNUVERworld

Their songs are often said to be generally difficult, and PRAYING RUN is particularly challenging for its high notes.

In live performances, the vocalist sometimes lowers the key when singing it.

It’s uptempo, and there seem to be many parts where it’s hard to keep the pitch.