Karaoke songs to sing in January: classic and popular tracks to hype up the party
When you’re unsure where to go during the New Year holidays—after a New Year’s party with family and relatives, or with friends and coworkers—you might end up going to karaoke, right? Here are some perfect songs for the season: New Year-themed tracks and winter songs we’d love for you to sing at those gatherings! From bittersweet winter ballads to songs themed around “beginnings,” we’ve picked a wide range of popular tunes spanning the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras.
Even if you don’t usually go to karaoke but have plans to tag along for social reasons, feel free to use this as a reference!
- Masterpieces to Listen to in January: New Year-Themed, New Year-Ready, and Winter Songs
- [2026] Classic Karaoke Songs That Liven Up Year-End and New Year Parties
- A collection of nostalgic hits from the ’70s to 2000s that are perfect for livening up karaoke
- Karaoke songs to sing in February | Winter classics, sweet love songs, and fight songs (cheer-up anthems)
- A lineup of classic hits! Karaoke songs recommended for the yutori generation
- [Karaoke] A roundup of songs that are easy for women to sing!
- [New Year’s Songs] Timeless classics and popular New Year tunes you’ll want to listen to at the start of the year
- [2026] Perfect for reunions and New Year’s parties! Karaoke songs to sing at New Year’s
- [New Year] A collection of Vocaloid songs to liven up New Year’s parties and year-end parties [Year-End Special]
- [Winter Karaoke | New Hits & Classics] Winter Songs You’ll Want to Sing at Karaoke
- [I want to sing out loud] Songs that feel great to belt and are fun for karaoke
- [Winter Songs] Recommended for Instagram Reels! Classic winter hits
- [Easy to Sing] Recommended Winter Songs for Karaoke: A Collection of Classic Winter Hits
Karaoke songs you’ll want to sing in January: Classic and popular tracks to hype up the party (71–80)
Before winter endsShimizu Shota
Shota Shimizu’s single “Before Winter Ends” was released in December 2011.
It’s a ballad about lovers who are far apart and can’t easily meet, a warm, heartfelt love song that’s very characteristic of Shimizu.
It was also included on the 2012 album “Naturally.” The music video, featuring Shota Sometani and Nako Mizusawa, has a Christmas vibe with illuminations shining on a snowy night, but since it’s winter-themed, I think it would definitely fit to sing it in January as well!
Tsugaru Strait – Winter SceneIshikawa Sayuri
It’s a classic winter song that even people who don’t usually listen to enka know.
Its popularity is clear from the fact that not only enka singers but artists from many genres have covered it.
The powerful intro, evocative of the cold, rough waves of winter, is also very striking.
Not only the title but also the lyrics feature numerous place names, so anyone familiar with them can trace the journey the song’s protagonist takes.
It’s a piece you’ll want to sing with deep emotion, accompanying the protagonist’s sorrow.
LemonYonezu Kenshi
A classic karaoke song that evokes the fleeting melancholy of winter.
Released in 2018 as Kenshi Yonezu’s eighth single, it became a massive hit.
The creation of the song was reportedly influenced by the world of Motojiro Kajii’s novel “Lemon,” as well as Yonezu’s feelings for his late grandfather, expressing the loneliness of losing a loved one, the preciousness of life, and a solemn grandeur.
The high notes can be a bit challenging, but that’s all the more reason to sing the lower parts with care and a touch of richness.
It’s a well-known masterpiece, so it’s sure to get everyone excited!
Under the same skyayaka
If you want to cheer up a friend who feels like last year didn’t go so well, I recommend Ayaka’s “Minna Sora no Shita” (“Under the Same Sky”).
Released in 2009, the song was originally written for one of Ayaka’s own friends.
The lyrics carry a message to a friend: “You’re a kind person who gives your all, and you’re amazing for bringing smiles to those around you.” How about singing it to a friend who’s feeling down, with the thought, “You have so many wonderful qualities, so it’s going to be okay”? I’m sure that if you sing it for them, your friend will be able to find their genuine smile again this year!
Song of BeginningsRyokushokushakai
When you’re ready to take a new step with fresh resolve, this song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai will give you a nudge forward.
It was included on their 2017 mini-album ADORE.
Starting with an intro that evokes the crispness of morning, Haruko Nagaya’s clear, transparent vocals resonate pleasantly.
The build-up to the chorus overflows with positive energy and really strikes a chord with listeners.
Even when you’re feeling anxious or nervous, listening to this track will give you courage.
It’s the perfect number to kick off the new year with a flying start.