[Karaoke] A roundup of popular Japanese songs that start with the letter “Ra”
Is everyone having fun at karaoke?
Whether you’re going wild with friends or practicing seriously on your own, there are lots of ways to enjoy it.
That said, choosing songs can be a recurring dilemma at karaoke.
You might find time slipping away while you’re thinking, “What should I sing next…?”
So in this article, we’ve put together a list of popular Japanese songs whose titles start with the syllable “ra” (ら)!
We’ve picked a wide range—from timeless classics to recent hits.
Use this as one way to find your next song to sing!
- Compilation of Vocaloid songs with titles starting with 'Ra'
- A classic song with a title that starts with “Ru”
- A roundup of songs with titles starting with “Re.” Great for karaoke shiritori too!
- Songs with titles that start with “Ri”
- Karaoke songs everyone can sing: Japanese tracks that are easy to enjoy with a group.
- Songs with titles starting with “Ko” [Great for karaoke and shiritori, too!]
- Vocaloid songs that start with 'Ru'
- Songs with titles starting with “To.” A selection from popular tracks across generations!
- [Karaoke] A collection of Japanese songs that start with “Mu”
- A roundup of songs whose titles start with the tricky letter “ro.” Perfect for shiritori and karaoke.
- From Old-School Hits to Trends: A Collection of Vocaloid Songs Recommended for People in Their 20s
- Compilation of Vocaloid songs that start with 'Ri'
- A compilation of Vocaloid songs whose titles start with ‘Re’
[Karaoke] Compilation of Popular Japanese Songs Starting with “Ra” (141–150)
RUNtofubeats
A track characterized by solid synthesizers and hard-edged beats.
Released digitally by tofubeats in July 2018, it was created as the title track for the album RUN.
As the title suggests, it centers on the theme of “keeping on running,” capturing a contemporary feeling of having no choice but to keep moving without stopping.
Its structure, which maintains a steady level of tension while continuously pushing forward, makes it perfect for workouts that repeat the same motions at a brisk tempo.
Can’t pronounce the ‘ra’ sounds, words are lackingNekura Tōkī
Released for streaming in November 2025, this track brings a fresh angle to the fast-paced pop that NecryTalkie excels at.
It was created around a motif of vocalist Mossa’s difficulty pronouncing the Japanese “r” sounds.
The song simultaneously portrays playful wordplay and a painfully real breakdown in communication.
Many listeners will relate to the frustration of having something to say but being unable to put it into words.
If you’re into rock, definitely give it a listen!
Rusty NailX JAPAN
X JAPAN, a band that has led the visual kei rock scene, released this 10th single in 1994.
As the title, which means “rusty nail,” suggests, it’s a song where unfading pain and tenderness pierce the heart.
The intense rock sound and wistful melody blend beautifully.
Toshi’s vocals, showcasing his upper register, heighten the emotion and tug at the listener’s heartstrings.
Chosen as the theme song for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “Kimi ga Mienai,” it became their first single to debut at No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It’s a number that gently stays by your side as you try to move forward while carrying feelings for someone important.
LOVE Tear-ColoredMatsuura Aya
A classic love song that irresistibly captures missed connections and aching tenderness through exchanges over cell phone emails.
The anxiety of no reply, the frustration of feelings not getting through, and emotions overflowing—set against the backdrop of the flip-phone era, it delicately portrays the subtle emotional swings of a girl in love.
The melody crafted by Tsunku perfectly weaves brightness with poignancy, and Matsuura’s transparent voice—she was just 15 at the time—pierces the heart.
Released in September 2001, the single reached No.
3 on the Oricon weekly chart, and at year’s end she took on the major role of opening act in her first appearance at the NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.
When you want to shed tears over love’s fragility, give it a listen.
RhapsodyBILLY BOO
BILLY BOO captivates with a unique hybrid sound that fuses catchy melodies with roots in Black music.
Released in April 2025, the track was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime “The After-Dinner Mysteries” and became a hot topic, earning power-play rotation on 57 radio stations nationwide.
The song carries a positive message: in the midst of days filled with challenges, a protagonist who has locked their own heart finds the courage to open that door and step toward a shining tomorrow.
Its brisk 16-beat rhythm and the wistful yet powerful vocals of KAZUKI UJIIE make it a track that gives you a push forward.
It’s a motivational anthem for anyone seeking the courage to take on something new or hoping to transform their everyday life!
Live house!Conton Candy
Beyond the door, music will save your heart—the song that powerfully rings out that hope was released digitally in April 2025.
This work, which sings of love for live houses and the people who gather there, carries the message: when you’re feeling down, that’s exactly when you should return to where the music is.
The lyrics, woven from a desire to sing to someone wearing a gloomy expression, are straightforward, warm, and give you a gentle push forward.
Conton Candy formed in 2018, has continued with its current lineup since 2021, and moved to Sony Records in 2025.
When you want to reset a tired heart or feel like meeting your friends, the energetic guitar rock of this track is sure to lift you up!
Last sceneikimonogakari
One of the double A-side singles by Ikimono-gakari, written in 2016 as the theme song for the film Your Lie in April.
It’s a ballad centered on themes of “death” and “parting,” and the bittersweet longing for someone dear in the spring light resonates in the heart through Yoshioka’s tender, embracing vocals.
With its beautiful melody that stays close to your feelings, it’s a song you can pour your emotions into as you sing.
Recommended when you want to perform with a calm, gentle atmosphere or create a reflective mood.
Be sure to showcase this acclaimed classic, which was selected for the Excellence Award at the 58th Japan Record Awards.