RAG MusicKARAOKE
Lovely karaoke song

Songs with titles starting with 'O' [Great for karaoke and shiritori!]

Songs with titles starting with “O” often feature unique names—like those using characters meaning “dance” or “gold,” as well as Osaka-themed songs.

They also tend to be great for getting everyone fired up when singing! I can’t think of many off the top of my head, so I want to look some up…

This is a list that might come in handy at such times: songs with titles that start with “O.” Use it when you’re wondering, “What songs start with ‘O’?” and also as a prompt for shiritori or when choosing tracks at karaoke.

Songs with Titles Starting with “O” [Great for Karaoke & Shiritori!] (151–160)

Our JourneyNakamura Masatoshi

This single was released in October 1975 as the theme song for the TV drama “Our Journey,” starring Masatoshi Nakamura, who enjoyed immense popularity from the very start of his acting career.

The lyrics and music were written by Kei Ogura, who likens the long life ahead to a journey, vividly portraying both the hopes of young people pursuing their dreams and the moments of sudden loneliness and melancholy.

Capturing the hearts of the youth of its time, it became a long-running hit, staying on the Oricon charts for 45 weeks.

Nakamura’s warm, enveloping voice seems to gently nudge you forward, even when you’re filled with uncertainty.

It’s an unfading classic that we hope those taking a new step at graduation—and those who wish to reminisce about their youthful days—will listen to.

Album of MemoriesSakushi: Masuko Toshi / Sakkyoku: Honda Tetsumaro

There is a classic song that has been sung for many years as a staple of kindergarten graduation ceremonies.

The lyricist, Toshi Masuko, was an early childhood educator who studied at a Christian teacher-training school, while the composer, Tetsumaro Honda, was the principal of a kindergarten attached to a Buddhist temple—two people with different religious backgrounds who collaborated to create the piece.

The lyrics gently recount memories of time spent at the kindergarten in each of the four seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter—from a child’s perspective.

It first appeared in a book on childcare practice in 1961, and in 1981 a version performed by the vocal group Dark Ducks was broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” bringing it nationwide recognition.

In 2006, it was selected for the “100 Best Japanese Songs.” Its calm 6/8 melody is easy for young children to sing, and the call-and-response style between teachers and children is also enjoyable.

It’s a perfect piece for the climax of a graduation ceremony or as background music for a slideshow of memories.

OverDriverSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “OverDriver” Music Video: SUKIMASWITCH – OverDriver Music Video
OverDriverSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch is a music duo known for classic hits like “Zenryoku Shounen” and “Kanade.” This song, included as the lead track on their November 2021 release Hot Milk, is a newly written piece centered on the theme of an anthem of encouragement.

Its fast-paced band sound and lyrics about breaking free from stagnation and moving forward gently give listeners a push.

Starting in fiscal 2023, the track was adopted as the theme song for Funabashi Keiba and has been used in concept videos and commercials.

Furthermore, from fiscal 2024, an instrumental version has also been used as the main track for the horses’ entrance onto the course at Funabashi Racecourse.

It’s a song with a driving energy perfectly suited to the exhilaration before a race.

Not only for horse racing fans, it’s a pop tune we hope you’ll listen to when you want to take a new step or shift into a higher gear.

All mothersdōyō

[Children’s Song] All the Horses / Daisuke Yokoyama
All mothersdōyō

It originally has its roots in an American folk song, and in Japan it has taken hold as a nursery rhyme beloved by young children.

It’s fun how the lively onomatopoeia captures the image of a horse dashing around energetically.

The lyrics repeatedly ask why the horse is running, with no one knowing the answer, which sweetly echoes a child’s simple curiosity.

Because you can sing it while moving—clapping hands, stomping feet, or pretending to be a horse—it’s perfect for preschool and kindergarten activities.

Try raising your voices together as a family and enjoy the rhythm of a gallop.

OPTICALsunisute

[MV] OPTICAL / Sunisute – SneakerStep Prod. STPR MUSIC
OPTICALsunisute

This song by Suniste from STPR MUSIC is a dance tune built around the concept of “becoming light and reaching you.” Here, “light” refers not only to the lighting on stage but also to the internet that connects people online.

It’s a perspective that truly reflects them, who have nurtured bonds with fans through streams and social media.

The exhilarating sound and the lyrics depicting the moment when the members and fans meet are sure to stir your heart.

Portrait of a MaidenREOL

Reol – “Portrait of a Maiden” Music Video
Portrait of a MaidenREOL

A song by Reol that revives the sparkle of ’80s idol pop with a modern sound.

Arranged by Shin Sakiura, it leaves a lasting impression with shimmering synths and sweet vocal harmonies.

While it puts cuteness front and center, the lyrics hide betrayal and a hint of poison—the duality is addictive.

Give it a listen when you’re in the mood to discover a fresh face of pop.

Songs with Titles Starting with “O” [Great for Karaoke & Shiritori!] (161–170)

With hot water (mixed with hot water)Hayama Mizuki

This is a song released by Mizuki Hayama in December 2025.

It portrays the exchanged glances across the counter of a small Japanese eatery and the intimate atmosphere after closing time when only the two remain.

Crafted as a light, folk-tinged enka number, its understated, warm sound is imbued with Hayama’s gentle vocal inflections, slowly soaking into the listener’s heart.

The composition is by her mentor, Yuh Hijikawa, with arrangement by Shunichi Makaino, who is active on both kayō and pop fronts.

This lineup creates a pleasing sonic image that never fatigues the ear.