Popular Karaoke: Artist Rankings [2026]

Marigoldaimyon8rank/position

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Singer-songwriter Aimyon is loved by a wide range of generations for her nostalgic melodies and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

Released in August 2018 as her fifth single, this song has become one of her signature tracks, surpassing 300 million streams.

The fact that it achieved such popularity without any tie-in is a testament to the song’s universal appeal.

Layering the peaceful everyday moments with a loved one over radiant memories of summers past, it expresses a powerful desire to never be apart.

The sound is catchy yet tinged with nostalgia, making it an easy crowd-pleaser at karaoke.

It’s a perfect classic for those who cherish time with their partners and for people in their twenties who want to bask in the memories of their youth.

Goodbye ElegySuda Masaki9rank/position

Masaki Suda “Sayonara Elegy”

In addition to his overwhelming presence as an actor, Masaki Suda continues to captivate many fans as a singer.

This work is his third single, released in February 2018, and it was selected as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “Kiss That Kills.” The lyrics and composition were created by Hui Ishizaki, a singer-songwriter whom Suda deeply admires.

It’s a rock number that straightforwardly portrays the struggle of seeking love while being unable to escape loneliness, as well as the poignancy of parting.

The melody carries a touch of nostalgia, and the powerful, emotionally stirring lyrics leave a strong impression.

With relatively little variation in vocal range, it’s easy to sing and perfect for livening up a karaoke session.

The chorus, full of driving energy, is sure to create a sense of unity when everyone sings together.

Highly recommended for anyone looking to energize the mood at a post-drinks after-party.

HANABIMr.Children10rank/position

Mr.Children 「HANABI」 MUSIC VIDEO

Mr.Children is a band that arguably the Heisei generation listened to the most.

Whether you’re in your 30s born in the Showa era or in your 30s born in the Heisei era, you’ve probably sung one of their songs at least once.

Among their tracks, the one I especially recommend is HANABI.

It features a chorus full of excitement, yet the pitch movement is relatively steady, so you can sing it at an after-party karaoke without pushing yourself too hard.

However, it does include quite a few low G-sharp notes, so a certain depth in vocal range is required.

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A Little Love SongMONGOL80011rank/position

A Little Love Song

There must be plenty of people who’ve already decided, “If I go to karaoke, I’m definitely singing this.” It’s a signature song by MONGOL800, a rock band from Okinawa.

Included on their 2001 album MESSAGE, it wasn’t even released as a single, yet it became the first indie track in history to sell over 2.8 million copies.

Its appeal lies in the driving rock sound and straightforward lyrics that honestly express feelings for someone special.

In 2019, a film inspired by the song was released, and it continues to be loved across generations.

With a relatively low key and a simple melody, it’s an easy pick even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.

If everyone belts out the chorus together, it’s sure to make any drinking party even more lively!

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN12rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

Despite having nearly 30 years of activity, the rock band BUMP OF CHICKEN is still at the forefront.

They have many famous songs, but among them, the most well-known is probably Tentai Kansoku.

The song’s vocal range spans from low G# to mid2 G#, with the lower register being quite deep.

Since a mid2 F appears in the final chorus, if you adjust the key so that you can sing that part solidly, it shouldn’t feel particularly difficult.

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waxing; filling up; becoming full; growing (e.g., the moon growing fuller)Fuji Kaze13rank/position

Fujii Kaze – Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing) / Official Video

Riding on the gentle tones of the piano, Fujii Kaze delivers a gem of a love song that conveys straight from the heart his feelings for a loved one.

It beautifully captures the essence of loving someone, and its pure, selfless sentiment resonates deeply.

Since its release in March 2024, it has captivated many listeners, surpassing 100 million total streams by September 2024.

Also gaining attention as the theme song for the film “My Girlfriend is an April Day” starring Takeru Satoh and Masami Nagasawa, this track is perfect for moments when you want to savor time with someone special or quietly express your feelings to the one you love.

Amanojaku16414rank/position

Amano Jakku / 164 feat. GUMI (Official)

An iconic song that represents the Vocaloid scene, sung over an emotional rock sound that channels a contrarian heart.

Released by Vocaloid producer 164 in 2011, it features a driving sound woven from fierce guitar riffs and slap bass, with GUMI’s powerful vocals ringing out.

The song portrays an awkward love that can’t be honest with the person they like, leading to actions and words that run counter to their true feelings.

In June 2023, it surpassed 10 million plays and continues to be covered by many singers.

It’s the perfect track to hype up a karaoke session with friends or to reminisce about the old days.