Idol Songs from the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Eras: Classic and Latest Hits That Light Up Karaoke
We’ve picked out songs from a wide range of idols—male and female alike—from classic Showa and Heisei-era idol hits to idols thriving in the Reiwa era!
Alongside the all-time staples, we’ve gathered insider-favorite tracks that idol enthusiasts will appreciate, while still being easy for a broad audience to enjoy.
Use this list as a reference for your next playlist.
Many of the melodies are simple, so everyone can sing, dance, and get hyped together!
Go all out with the latest tracks bursting with idol charm, or bask in nostalgia with old favorites—enjoy idol songs in whatever way suits you best!
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Idol Songs of the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Eras: Classic and Latest Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers (11–20)
Everyday, KachushaAKB48
If you want to instantly liven up a karaoke session or boost the summer mood, try picking AKB48’s “Everyday, Kachusha.” It’s a quintessential idol song with a pleasant melody and straightforward, summery lyrics.
One of the great things about AKB48’s songs is how they can instantly energize the atmosphere at parties or karaoke.
It’s also easy to sing: the pitch range isn’t too wide, and the melody gradually rises, making it easy to control.
DESIRENakamori Akina
This is one of Akina Nakamori’s signature songs, themed around burning love and singing of fiery passion.
First aired in February 1986 as a TV commercial song, it was later released as a single and became a huge hit.
With this song, Nakamori won the Japan Record Award for the second consecutive year, establishing her status as a singer at the young age of 20.
Showcasing dramatic expressiveness and powerful vocals, this track is perfect for livening up a karaoke session or when you want to experience a classic from the Showa era.
Be sure to check out the modern twist on traditional Japanese attire and the unique choreography, said to be inspired by a baseball pitching motion.
NEW LOOKMISAMO
MISAMO, a TWICE sub-unit composed of the three Japanese members, covers a classic hit by Namie Amuro inspired by 1960s fashion icon Twiggy.
Released on October 9, 2024, it serves as the lead single from their second Japanese mini album.
The lyrics, which depict self-expression and growth through fashion, are striking, portraying modern women in search of their true selves.
Blending a retro vibe with a modern arrangement to perfection, this track is ideal not only for fashion enthusiasts but also for anyone on a journey of self-discovery.
Only you win (for me).Hinatazaka46
“Only 〇〇 wins” is a trendy phrase meaning “Only 〇〇 can win; 〇〇 is the best!!”.
This song, with lyrics by Yasushi Akimoto, uses that phrase cleverly.
The center is Shiho Kato, who’s also an exclusive model for CanCam—her first time as center on a single under the Hinatazaka46 name! In any case, Hinatazaka46’s songs, like ‘Kyun’ and ‘Doremisolasido,’ are known for their catchy choruses that really stick in your head.
This one is no exception: the ‘Kimi Shika Katan’ line, which is also the title, is especially wonderful, so be sure to emphasize the ‘Kimi Shika Katan’ part when you sing it.
The choreography, which looks almost like a mirror image, is adorable too.
If you’re in a spacious karaoke room, it could be fun to try dancing along!
GOATNumber_i
This innovative hip-hop track, composed entirely of rap, has drawn attention as a bold song that breaks out of the conventional idol-pop mold.
The title, meaning “the greatest of all time,” is said to embody the group’s confidence and resolve.
Released digitally on January 1, 2024, the song sparked a huge reaction, surpassing 10 million views on YouTube in just three days.
It’s perfect for those with a strong sense of rhythm or a knack for rap.
Nail the groove and turn your karaoke session into an absolute blast!
Silent majorityKeyakizaka46
This song was released in 2016 as the debut single of Keyakizaka46, produced by Yasushi Akimoto, with Yurina Hirate in the center position.
The strongly message-driven lyrics are striking, and the vocals are notably lower in pitch for an idol group.
In contrast to the song’s direction, the military-style uniforms and choreography create an unforgettable visual once you see it.
It’s a track that invites everyone to sing and dance coolly together and get pumped up.
It might surprisingly suit male vocalists as well.
[Idol Songs of the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Eras] Classic and Latest Hits (21–30) That Fire Up Karaoke
municipal dance hallNogizaka 46
This piece is included on Nogizaka46’s 40th single, “Biryani.” Reiko Morihira serves as center for the first time, and the song paints a scene where a park bench, where someone is waiting, transforms into a special dance hall.
The twinkling night sky is imagined as the audience, and the attitude of enjoying even the time when no one may come in a positive way overlaps with the sixth generation members striving to shine wherever they are placed.
The modern take on disco sound is also striking.
Be sure to give it a listen.