RAG MusicKARAOKE
Lovely karaoke song

Songs with titles starting with “Ko” [Great for karaoke and shiritori, too!]

There are many song titles that start with “ko,” featuring familiar words like “koi” (love) and “kokoro” (heart).

The range is really broad, but even just branching out from “koi” will lead you to lots of songs!

From era-defining hit tunes and more.

Sometimes nothing comes to mind right away and you want to look some up…!

So we’ve put together a list of song titles that start with “ko,” which might come in handy at such times.

Feel free to use it not only when you’re curious about what songs begin with “ko,” but also as inspiration for shiritori or choosing songs at karaoke.

Songs with titles starting with “Ko” [Great for karaoke & shiritori too!] (421–430)

Love…passionMiyama Hiroshi

Hiroshi Miyama “Love… Obsession” [75th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen Performance Song] MUSIC VIDEO
Love...passionMiyama Hiroshi

Mr.

Hiroshi Miyama, affectionately known as ‘Vitamin Voice.’ He made his debut in 2009 with the single ‘Hitokoi Sakaba,’ which became a hit the following year, selling over 100,000 copies.

In 2015, he sold 150,000 copies of ‘O-Iwakisan’ and made his first appearance at the 66th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen that same year.

He has continued to appear for ten consecutive years since then.

Captivating many fans with his steady vocal ability and warm voice, Miyama is also drawing attention as a ‘kendama enka singer’ who showcases kendama performances.

At the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, there was even a segment where participants attempted to set a Guinness record with a kendama relay.

Eyes of the heartMiki Takashi

Lyrics by Toyohisa Araki, Music by Takashi Miki / Kokoro no Hitomi
Eyes of the heartMiki Takashi

A classic that paints a picture of warm affection and a deep bond! Left as Kyu Sakamoto’s final work, this song expresses love for a partner who has walked by one’s side for many years.

The image of two people supporting each other and strengthening their bond is sure to convey an important message to children as well.

Released in August 1985, this track became Sakamoto’s last public recording.

Singing it at a graduation ceremony may help renew memories with friends and feelings of gratitude toward family.

If everyone sings it wholeheartedly, it will surely become a touching and unforgettable memory!

ancient castleMitsubishi Michiya

Mitsuhashi Michiya [Kojo (Old Castle)]
ancient castleMitsubishi Michiya

When it comes to timeless, melancholy Japanese classics, this song is the first that comes to mind.

Its lyrical poetry and rich melody blend beautifully, stirring the listener’s heart.

Through the image of a decayed castle, it poignantly sings of lost glory and nostalgia for bygone days—truly the essence of enka.

Since its 1959 release, it has remained beloved by many and is a karaoke staple.

Yet its difficulty is well known: Mihashi’s distinctive vocal timbre and expressive power, along with the wide-ranging melody, put any singer to the test.

Even so, it’s a song I especially hope those with a wealth of life experience will try.

Songs with Titles Starting with “Ko/Ko-” [Perfect for Karaoke & Shiritori!] (431–440)

Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67 “Fate” (Beethoven), 4th Movement / Hiroshima Symphony OrchestraShimono Tatsuya

Tatsuya Shimono, a native of Kagoshima Prefecture, is one of the leading conductors in Japan’s classical music scene.

He launched his career by winning the Tokyo International Music Competition for Conducting in 2000, followed by victory at the Besançon International Competition for Young Conductors in 2001, earning high acclaim both domestically and internationally.

A conductor of proven ability, he has performed not only with Japan’s major orchestras—such as the NHK Symphony Orchestra and the Yomiuri Nippon Symphony Orchestra—but also with top ensembles overseas.

He is renowned for his meticulous score study and research, and his commitment to precise, thoughtful communication with orchestras is a hallmark of his artistry.

In October 2023, he assumed the position of Principal Conductor of the NHK Symphony Orchestra, and even greater achievements are anticipated.

Crimson Japanese lantern (plant)Oka Midori

It’s a hidden gem that, while reminiscing about the Hozuki Market held in Asakusa, highlights its intense passion even more by choosing a calm, beautiful delivery instead of putting overt resentment over betrayal front and center.

Although it’s positioned as the coupling track to the single “Namidauta,” released in February 2024, it’s sure to be irresistible for those who love Midori Oka’s mysterious side.

The melody doesn’t demand particularly difficult techniques and is relatively easy to sing, so I encourage you to give it a try at karaoke.

With songs like this, it’s harder to express the simmering, uncontrollable emotions in a restrained way than to showcase technique, so be sure to read the lyrics carefully before you sing!

Koise RiverNakamura Mitsuko

A renowned river flowing through Ibaraki Prefecture, Koise River, is the setting for Mitsuko Nakamura’s famous song “Koisegawa.” Many of her works depict the romance between men and women from a third-person perspective, and this piece is known as one of them.

The tempo is slow, and the vocal range is slightly wide.

While there are a fair number of kobushi (ornamental turns), there are no rapid runs, so anyone with some familiarity with enka phrasing should be able to sing it without issue.

If you find the pre-chorus Kawachi-ondo-style kobushi challenging, try boldly raising the key and incorporating some falsetto while emphasizing the kobushi.

A street corner where even lovers get wetNakamura Masatoshi

This is a song that portrays a mature romance set against the backdrop of Yokohama.

Masatoshi Nakamura’s deep, rugged vocals are a perfect match for the erotic lyrics crafted by Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars.

Released in September 1982, the track vividly reflects the atmosphere of Yokohama at the time, with iconic scenery woven into the lyrics as part of its charm.

The lyrics delicately capture the bittersweet emotions of lovers on a rainy street corner, resonating deeply with listeners.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to feel the complex emotions unique to adult relationships and the passion sparked by a fleeting, one-night encounter.