[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] A Compilation of Popular Japanese Songs Starting with “Ra” (441–450)
RashōmonSakamoto Fuyumi
Fuyumi Sakamoto is a female enka singer renowned for excelling at “male songs.” Among her works, one of the most popular male songs is Rashomon.
It’s a piece noted for its particularly serious melody even within Sakamoto’s repertoire, and it enjoys strong support from fans.
Although the song stands out for its power, the vocal line itself is simple and the range is relatively narrow.
The ornamental kobushi that require complex pitch movements appear only at the end of the chorus and involve upward and downward motion no more than twice, so anyone accustomed to singing enka should be able to perform it without difficulty.
I don’t listen to love songs.Yūgata to Neko
The band Yuugata to Neko, known for lyrics that capture everyday life, has grown popular.
They have a solid reputation for having many so-called “emo” tracks and have released numerous classics to date.
Among them, the song I especially recommend is Don’t Listen to Love Songs.
It’s memorable for a chorus that steadily ramps up in intensity, yet the vocal range is narrow and the chorus starts in a low register, so even men who can’t hit high notes can sing it without any problem.
Be sure to add it to your repertoire.
LovelyŌhashi Torio
Originally released by Kenji Ozawa in 1994, this song was covered by Ohashi Trio on his 2011 album “fake book III.” Ohashi Trio’s version offers a luxurious, six-plus-minute musical experience woven from his warm vocals and sophisticated arrangement.
It was also used as the ending theme for the NHK BS Premium drama “Shokubutsu Danshi Verander,” expressing a calm and gentle worldview.
It’s a recommended choice when you want to sing alone with care or enjoy at karaoke with music-loving friends.
With Ohashi Trio’s characteristically delicate arrangement and heartwarming melody, it gently sings of ideal love and the joys of life.
Last FragranceAmatsuki
A song in which Amatsuki’s vocals gently sink in.
Amid a spreading, dreamlike worldview, the theme—ephemeral yet beautiful traces of love lingering like a fragrance—leaves a strong impression.
Released in December 2024 as the title track of the album “Last Fragrance,” it showcases a new breadth to Amatsuki’s music.
With a mood perfect for the ending theme of a romance film, this piece is recommended for moments when you want to look back on memories with someone special or be soothed by a voice that resonates with the heart.
Chasing LeicaKanadete Izuru
It’s a cute, heartwarming cosmic pop tune.
The song was released in June 2023 by Kanade-te Izuru, and this is the version sung by Kagamine Rin.
The lyrics, set against the backdrop of space and expressing the desire to “go see someone important,” together with the gentle sound arrangement, are so tender they make you feel all warm inside.
You can really feel the longing to connect with others.
It’s a track I hope people who are feeling lonely will listen to.
Love StoryAmuro Namie
This song, which portrays complex emotions, beautifully expresses both the pain of heartbreak and the hope that follows.
Released in December 2011 as the theme song for a Fuji TV Monday 9 p.m.
drama, it became a major hit.
The music video filmed in London is also striking.
Namie Amuro’s powerful yet delicate vocals perfectly enhance the lyrics that evoke the end of a romance and the start of something new.
Its approachable melody makes it easy to try at karaoke, so it’s recommended for those who’ve experienced heartbreak or are standing at a crossroads in life.
The heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody are sure to soothe your soul.
chaosKoyanagi Rumiko
Rumiko Koyanagi’s classic “Ran.” She has produced numerous masterpieces, but this piece can be said to showcase her sensuality most vividly.
It was composed by Koji Tamaki, who colored the music scene of the 1980s.
True to Tamaki’s style, the song features a vocal line imbued with allure, yet its foundation remains firmly in Showa-era kayōkyoku, so you’ll likely find it surprisingly easy to sing in practice.
If the brief high note that appears in the chorus feels tough, try boldly raising the key and singing that part in falsetto.