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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[Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Idol Songs] Classic and Latest Hits That Hype Up Karaoke (41–50)
Subtly flashy (bling-bling, but nonchalant)Kondō Masahiko
This song, released in 1981, is one of Masahiko Kondo’s signature tracks that brought a fresh breeze to the idol pop scene of the time.
It strikes a perfect balance between flashy idol flair and restrained subtlety, captivating listeners with lyrics that weave in English phrases and a catchy rhythm.
It was also included on the album “Gingiragin ni Sarigenaku,” released in December of the same year, and was used in a commercial for House Foods’ “Kukure Curry.” The song marked his debut appearance at the 32nd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen and reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It’s a recommended pick when you want to get hyped with people of the same generation or savor a nostalgic Showa-era mood.
[Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa Idol Songs] Classic and Latest Hits That Heat Up Karaoke (51–60)
Cinderella GirlKing&Prince
A prince-like idol who burst onto the scene at the end of the Heisei era.
They became popular in no time.
There’s even a rumor that guys at karaoke sing their songs while acting like prince characters! Well, that just shows how hype this track is.
If a guy picks a song like this, any girl is bound to get excited!
Cinderella of the Provisional Contractshiritsu ebisu chūgakkō
A song depicting a girl in glass slippers who wishes to be chosen by the prince.
Its lively melody, which samples Beethoven’s Für Elise, is especially striking.
Released in May 2012, the track drew attention as Shiritsu Ebisu Chugaku’s major-label debut single.
Around the summer of 2020, a sped-up version went viral on TikTok.
It’s often used as background music for “oshi” introduction videos, gaining fresh popularity on social media.
It’s a great pick for anyone looking to get the party going at karaoke.
The choreography is simple and easy to learn, so dancing together is sure to double the fun!
arDevil ANTHEM.
Devil ANTHEM., a female idol group formed in 2014 and affectionately known as “Debian,” released their milestone major-label debut single “ar” through Victor Entertainment.
Catchy and pop, the track features cute sound effects commonly heard in recent EDM, giving it a fresh vibe that could be called a new-generation idol sound.
Even those who’ve grown tired of classic idol songs are sure to be struck by the unique charm this song offers.
Insincere wordsNogizaka 46
Nogizaka46 is an idol group that debuted as AKB48’s official rival and has continued to lead the front lines of the Sakamichi Series.
“Kokoro nimo Nai Koto,” included on their 32nd single “Hito wa Yume wo Nido Miru,” is a track by 5th-generation members that has drawn attention as a song said to feel natural no matter who takes the center position.
The contrast between the delicate, translucent piano tones and the cute vocals, combined with the sentimental lyrics, stirs a bittersweet feeling.
It’s a catchy pop tune that truly befits a classic, orthodox idol song.
Natsumatope#NAME?
=LOVE is a 10-member girls’ group produced by former AKB48 member Rino Sashihara, whose members have received voice-acting training.
Their 14th single, Natsumatoppe, drew attention for featuring a double center with Maika Sasaki and Iori Noguchi.
The refreshing ensemble, highlighting their cute vocals, perfectly captures summertime scenes.
With plenty of call-and-response parts, it’s an upbeat track guaranteed to hype up live shows and karaoke alike.
Geeshōjo jidai
When they debuted in Japan, I was captivated by their perfectly synchronized large-group dancing, cute performances, and long legs.
Everyone instantly fell for how amazing K-pop idols are, right? And of course, their bursting, energetic sound is irresistible.
This song seems like it’ll forever be a go-to hype track at karaoke.