Lovely karaoke song

[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing songs by Chiharu Matsuyama

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Chiharu Matsuyama, a mega-star born in Hokkaido, has given the world many timeless songs.

Younger people may see him as a tough-looking, sharp-tongued character, but his innately pure voice, overwhelming vocal power, and beautiful melodies—sung with soaring high notes that don’t rely on falsetto—paired with Japanese lyrics, resonate with listeners of any generation.

His classic hits are also hugely popular at karaoke, and this time I’ve put together a selection of relatively easy songs to sing.

While it’s difficult to sing exactly like Matsuyama, the simple melodies are easy to learn, and the more you repeat them, the better you’ll get.

I’ve also included some quick tips, so be sure to check them out!

[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing Chiharu Matsuyama songs (11–20)

pinwheelMatsuyama Chiharu

pinwheel

pinwheelMatsuyama Chiharu

Released in 1979, this song is one of the pieces where Chiharu Matsuyama, who occasionally writes from a woman’s perspective, makes a woman the protagonist.

It transitions from an emotional introduction into a waltz-like 3/4 time that feels like a windmill turning.

Then comes a dramatic 3/4 chorus that really leaves an impression.

Among Chiharu’s songs, the arrangement has a strong Showa-kayō (classic Showa-era pop) vibe.

For karaoke, the key is to consciously contrast the languid feel leading up to the chorus with the intensity of the chorus itself.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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In conclusion

We’ve introduced a wide range of songs, from massive hits everyone’s heard at least once to beloved classics popular among fans. Matsuyama’s melodies naturally resonate with the hearts of Japanese people, and many are easy to sing along to, at least loosely. That said, his signature, expansive high notes delivered in full chest voice are quite challenging, so start by lowering the key and practice repeatedly!