A collection of nostalgic hits from the ’70s to 2000s that are perfect for livening up karaoke
When you go to karaoke with people from the same generation—like at class reunions, year-end parties, or New Year’s gatherings—nothing gets the energy up like nostalgic hits! The real charm of these retro tunes is that only those who lived through the same era can sing and listen while reminiscing about those days.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected hit songs from the 1970s, 80s, 90s, and 2000s—tracks that were beloved back then and are still cherished by many today.
Use this as a guide when choosing songs for karaoke with friends from your generation!
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- Karaoke Popularity Ranking by Generation [50s] [2026]
- Karaoke songs you’ll want to sing for men in their 70s: Enka and nostalgic Showa-era pop
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- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- Timeless classics only! Showa-era hit songs perfect for acoustic sing-alongs
1970s–1980s (1–10)
FriendsREBECCA
A smash hit by the legendary band Rebecca, fronted by NOKKO, who continues her energetic musical career.
Released in 1985, it’s a straight shot of nostalgia for those in their 50s.
When the band reunited in 2015, they performed this song on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, so younger generations may also recognize it.
It’s a favorite among artists too, having been covered by the likes of Demon Kogure and Shoko Nakagawa.
If you’re gathering with old bandmates, this is a must-sing.
It’s a vocally demanding number, but channel your inner NOKKO and sing it with power!
Sake, Tears, Men, and WomenKawashima Eigo
Eigo Kawashima, who sadly passed away young in 2001, still has many of his songs sung by people today.
His masterpiece “Sake, Tears, Men and Women” remains one of his signature works; the lyrics portray the sorrow of men, and his rugged presence as he sings while playing the piano continues to be beloved by many.
Its lyrics, which lay bare the life of a middle-aged man who chooses not to rush through life but to live slowly and true to himself, resonate deeply—and it’s still a karaoke favorite even now.
You are more beautiful than a rose.Fuse Akira
When it comes to Akira Fuse, “Shikuramen no Kahori” is famous, but I think many people actually prefer “Kimi wa Bara yori Utsukushii.” Above all, there’s no other song that feels this good to sing.
When you sing it at karaoke, use diaphragmatic breathing and go full volume.
For the final chorus, sing with maximum emotion and power!
Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji
Known by the nickname “Julie,” singer Kenji Sawada captivated fans not only with his powerful vocals but also with his sexy onstage makeup.
This is his 19th single.
Its melancholic lyrics and melody, combined with rock-infused arrangements, made a major impact on the J-pop scene at a time when kayōkyoku dominated the charts.
Those now in their 50s or 60s, who likely spent their youth back then, might find themselves wanting to sing it at karaoke.
Covered by numerous artists, it is a classic Showa-era song that remains widely known across generations.
MasqueradeShonentai
Many listeners were surely captivated by its dazzling, danceable sound that kicks off with a 5/4-time intro.
Released in 1985, Shonentai’s debut single topped the Oricon Weekly Chart and went on to dominate TBS’s music program “The Best Ten,” holding the No.
1 spot for six consecutive weeks, leaving a major mark on the music scene.
Arranger Motoki Funayama crafted the track with the goal of creating a “million-selling song,” and together with slap bass and a rich array of percussion, it’s a number brimming with appeal that even office workers can enjoy casually.
It’s guaranteed to instantly transform the atmosphere of any venue into something bright and festive.