[2026] Songs I Want to Try at Karaoke! A Roundup of Popular Showa-Era Kayōkyoku
Even in the 2020s, the songs that still enjoy unwavering popularity at karaoke are the kayōkyoku hits that colored the Showa era.
The term “Showa kayō” is well known even among younger generations, partly thanks to the global popularity of city pop and more.
Above all, there are simply so many timeless classics—these are beloved tracks that keep getting sung at karaoke across all ages.
For those of you who are eager to try singing Showa-era kayōkyoku, this article rounds up recommended popular karaoke picks, focusing mainly on hits from the 1970s and 1980s.
Every song is a famous tune you’ve likely heard at least once, so teens and people in their 20s—feel free to use this as inspiration for your karaoke repertoire!
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[2026] Songs I Want to Try Singing at Karaoke! Popular Showa-Era Kayōkyoku Hits (1–10)
Wine Red Heartanzenchitai
In 1983, the year when Anzen Chitai churned out one iconic hit after another, this work took the world by surprise.
It’s a song that beautifully depicts a mature romance, perfectly matching Yosui Inoue’s irresistibly captivating lyrics with Koji Tamaki’s deeply emotive melody.
It was also used in a commercial for Suntory’s Akadama Punch, and its sultry atmosphere surely enthralled viewers glued to their TVs.
The lyrics, which portray a dangerous love affair, grab hold of the listener’s heart.
If you’ve ever experienced a romance with a hint of forbidden allure, you might find yourself relating to it.
And if you sing it at karaoke, try emulating Tamaki’s velvety vocals for the full effect.
Stardust StageChekkāzu
Here comes a classic by The Checkers, the hitmakers who defined the 1980s.
This song, which also drew attention as a TV drama theme, sinks into the heart with its wistful lyrics and melody.
The protagonist’s resolve to keep moving toward their dreams despite the pain of heartbreak leaves a strong impression.
Fumiya Fujii’s soaring vocals and Naoyuki Fujii’s saxophone beautifully capture the song’s world.
Released in August 1984, it reached No.
1 on the Oricon chart and won the Gold Prize at the 26th Japan Record Awards.
If you sing it at karaoke, start gently and quietly, then let your emotions burst in the chorus!
Sailor Suit and Machine GunYakushimaru Hiroko
Hiroko Yakushimaru’s debut song is a classic distinguished by its pure vocal tone and dramatic lyrics.
Released in November 1981 as a movie theme song, it became a massive hit.
A competing version was released at the same time, and together they shipped 2 million copies.
On the Oricon chart, it sold about 1.2 million copies and ranked second on the 1982 year-end chart.
The song itself is an encouraging piece that portrays a girl stepping into the adult world.
Its lyrics, which frame parting not as sorrow but as hope, likely resonated with many listeners.
If you sing it at karaoke, the key is to avoid vibrato and deliver each note carefully and cleanly.
Kanda Riverkaguya hime
Released in September 1973, this work is a classic that delicately portrays the lives and emotions of young people in the Showa era.
Known as one of Kaguyahime’s signature songs, it sold an impressive 1.6 million copies.
Centered on themes of humble yet happy days and a bittersweet farewell, it depicts the pure love and inner struggles of students at the time.
The everyday life of a couple living in a tiny four-and-a-half tatami room, and the young man’s feelings as he grapples with his girlfriend’s “kindness,” resonate deeply with listeners.
It’s a great choice for karaoke if you want to savor the Showa vibe or enjoy pure love songs.
Sing it while reminiscing with friends, and you’re sure to have a moving, memorable time.
Journey of the HeartTULIP
Released in 1973, this song is TULIP’s signature work and the hit that dramatically changed their career.
Characterized by simple folk-rock acoustic guitar and memorable lyrics, it conveys the feelings of leaving for Tokyo and the lingering emotions for a woman left behind.
Used as the theme song for the TV show “Ninjō Ippon Kokoro no Tabi” and in commercials for the Toyota Carina, it has been covered by many artists and is cherished as a classic of Japanese folk music.
If you sing it at karaoke, it’s best to deliver it gently while savoring the sense of departure and youthful passion.