[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” (461–470)
Last DanceHamada Shogo
This song’s poignant melody and lyrics seep into the heart.
Depicting the final moments of a fading love, it exudes sorrow and wistfulness, continuing to resonate with many listeners.
Showcasing Shogo Hamada’s profound sensitivity and expressive power, the piece delicately portrays the struggle to accept a farewell and the feelings of looking back on a love that has passed.
It’s a perfect track for those sensing the end of a romance or who have experienced parting with someone dear.
Recommended for listening alone on a quiet night.
[Karaoke] Compilation of Popular Japanese Songs Starting with “Ra” (471–480)
LAST CHRISTMAS SONGHamada Mari
Here’s María Hamada’s mature Christmas song, “LAST CHRISTMAS SONG,” by an artist who could be called the foremother of female rock singers.
It’s a track she put real effort into—so much so that it was included on her second best-of album, Sincere, and it’s truly an adult Christmas ballad.
The lyrics, which tenderly recount “a youthful love remembered every time Christmas comes,” are wonderful.
Hamada wrote the words herself, and every expression chosen for a love that has ended is gentle.
In that sense, it might be a good song to listen to when getting over a breakup.
Her original album Soar, released to mark the 40th anniversary of her debut, is also highly recommended!
Lov UShibuya Subaru
A love song included on the fourth full-length album, “Lov U.” It’s a track that reveals a new side of Subaru Shibutani.
The lyrics, which weave in everyday moments of quiet happiness and inner conflict, really resonate.
Released in October 2024, the album also drew attention for Shibutani’s collaborations with a new group of creators.
The chemistry born from working with artists like micca and THE CHARM PARK makes for a compelling listen.
The music video even features his first dance performance in about seven years.
It’s recommended for anyone struggling with love or wanting to express their true feelings—this song is sure to give you courage!
lightKotone
Tohoku Electric Power’s summer energy-saving campaign “Thinking of Someone, Thinking of Tomorrow” encourages effortless power conservation for the sake of those who need our limited energy.
A series of scenes captures unassuming, everyday moments as they unfold.
The commercial is brought to life by “Light,” sung by Kotone, whose clear, straight-to-the-heart vocals help the message reach many people.
ranchu (a breed of Japanese goldfish)Eito
Many of you probably have memories of visiting your grandparents’ house during summer vacation.
The piece I’d like to introduce is Ranchu.
It’s a solo acoustic song by the singer-songwriter Eito.
In the first half, he sings about memories of going to his grandparents’ home during summer break—eating watermelon and watching goldfish—while in the second half, he expresses a wish for them to see the person he has become as an adult.
It’s a song that feels a little bittersweet yet warmly comforting.
Love je t’aimekōda mahiru
A pop tune that evokes the sweet-and-sour thrill of youth.
This innovative track blends Arabic-inspired sounds with a jazz flavor, showcasing the unique personality of Mahiru Koda.
Released in January 2024, it was selected as the ending theme for the anime “BUCCHIGIRI?!”.
Its lyrics, tailored to the anime’s worldview, deftly portray the feelings of a girl in love.
The dynamic, exhilarating melody of the chorus is irresistibly catchy.
This song is perfect not only for anime fans but also for anyone seeking fresh musical discoveries—a track that lets you fully savor Koda’s multifaceted musicality.
lapsTatamino Ayaka (Homecomings)
Ayaka Tateno is the central figure of Homecomings, a band known for its retro, pleasantly resonant guitar pop.
Formed in Kyoto in 2012, Tateno mainly handles the lush vocals and songwriting that shape the band’s appeal.
Before moving to Kyoto for university, she spent much of her life in Ishikawa Prefecture, where she honed her artistic sensibilities during her student years through exposure to film and literature.
She captivated many listeners with early standout tracks like “HURTS” and “PAPER TOWN,” the latter a song about Kyoto.
Her music reflects her gentle individuality as well as the influence of Ishikawa’s rich nature and culture.