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 Hits (21–30) That Fire Up Karaoke
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.
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.
Idol Songs from the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Eras: Classic and Latest Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers (31–40)
Double Double FIGHT!CANDY TUNE
This is a CANDY TUNE song released in April 2024, filled with positive vibes and energetic sound as a cheering anthem.
The lyrics, carried by the melody, convey the importance of caring for and loving others, as well as the strength to push forward toward your goals.
What stands out in this work is the upbeat rhythm that’s fun to enjoy with dance, and the vocal parts that highlight each member’s individuality.
On TikTok, a unique dance where the members line up in a single vertical file and pop out to the sides drew attention and took the top spot on the charts.
Riding that momentum, their commemorative tour across Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka included two additional days at Makuhari Event Hall.
It’s a song that resonates with the younger generation who enjoy social media and with everyone who strives hard every day.
School HeavenKoizumi Kyoko
This song, covered by Kyoko Koizumi in 1988, was originally released by Finger Five in 1974.
With lyrics that depict relatable school-day episodes and call-and-response shouts, it’s a track you can’t help but get excited about.
By the way, the shout sections are based on Gary U.S.
Bonds’ American hit “New Orleans,” so you might enjoy giving that a listen too.
Tracing the roots of different songs is part of the fun—this is a beloved oldie with enduring popularity.
Yeah! Super Holiday!Matsuura Aya
Aya Matsuura, a Heisei-era super idol and former member of Hello! Project.
She joined Hello! Project after passing the 4th Morning Musume & Michiyo Heike Little Sister Audition.
This song, released in 2002, is a lively classic produced by Tsunku.
It’s also famous thanks to impressions by Takaaki Ishibashi of Tunnels and Ai Haruna.
If everyone sings and dances to this track, it’s sure to get the crowd going.
Love Revolution 21Mōningu Musume.
Here’s a song by Morning Musume released in 2000.
Natsumi Abe and Maki Goto served as the centers.
Arranged by Dance☆Man, the track is crafted with a nod to classic disco music, giving it a cool, hard-edged vibe.
It was used as the opening theme for the TV show “Find the Idol!” and also featured in commercials.
It’s a treat to hear producer Tsunku’s voice in the chorus as well.
It’s a nostalgic yet fresh song that captures the feel of the 21st century.
The FeelsTwice
Here’s the first all-English single released in 2021 by TWICE, the hugely popular K-pop girl group.
It was aimed at entering the Billboard charts, and it successfully made the rankings just as intended.
With a bass-driven, danceable intro that gets you excited, a melody that’ll loop in your head after just one listen, and the razor-sharp choreography unique to K-pop, it’s packed with elements that will hype up any karaoke session.
Since the lyrics are in English, it’s also a big plus that it seems easier to memorize than Korean.