Popular Karaoke. Band Rankings [2026]

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN22rank/position

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” MV

I think there are many men in their 30s who like anime songs.

For such anime song fans in their 30s, UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is probably one of the most popular bands.

Among their tracks, the one I especially recommend is “Sugar Song and Bitter Step.” Its appeal lies in the seamless succession of high-pitched phrases that feel light yet deliver an exceptional sense of liberation.

If you watched Blood Blockade Battlefront as it aired, be sure to try singing it.

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Ryo

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Gather ‘round! Party people!Yabai T-shatsu Yasan23rank/position

Yabai T-Shirts Yasan – “Gather Around! Party People” Music Video [Major Version]

A song by the three-piece rock band Yabai T-shirts Yasan, known by the abbreviation YabaT.

Featured on the album “We love Tank-top,” it’s a party tune that incorporates EDM elements.

With a lively rhythm and catchy melody, it’s the kind of track that really pumps you up.

Released in November 2016, it has become a staple frequently performed at live shows and festivals.

It’s an upper tune you can enjoy without overthinking—perfect for belting out in karaoke with your fist in the air.

If men of the yutori generation pick it for karaoke with friends, it’ll definitely get the crowd going.

HOWEVERGLAY24rank/position

GLAY / HOWEVER

Speaking of GLAY’s songs, they span from energetic numbers to moving ballads, and many are easy to sing at karaoke—so it can be tough to choose.

If you want to share a touching moment across generations at a work karaoke with your boss, their signature ballad released in August 1997 is a great pick.

This majestic, stirring track conveys unwavering devotion to a loved one and a strong determination for the two to overcome any hardship together.

TERU’s emotive vocals further elevate the tender yet warm message.

It topped the Oricon charts, sold over a million copies, and was later used as the ending theme for a TBS drama, so many people are sure to recognize it.

As a timeless love song cherished across generations, it’s sure to create a warm atmosphere.

balladKetsumeishi25rank/position

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

Ketsumeishi is known for having lots of bright songs with plenty of hip-hop and rap elements, but they actually have ballads too! With gentle melodies over piano and string-backed arrangements… this side of Ketsumeishi is really satisfying to listen to, and it looks cool to sing as well! The song runs close to seven minutes, so it’s on the longer side, but it’s highly recommended when you want something mellow.

Of course, there’s rap in it too, but the tempo is relaxed, so it’s easy to learn and easy to groove to.

It seems best to sing while moving your body in a big, open way.

The chorus is a real highlight, so if you sing each phrase carefully, you can really put your feelings into it.

There are spots where it slips lightly into falsetto, which adds a surge of poignancy.

The latter half of the chorus is a sweet spot for singing, so don’t hesitate—project your voice with confidence!

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Kubota Mami

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The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE26rank/position

The Future Projection II

A signature ballad by Dreams Come True that captures lovers’ hopes for the future.

Included on the album “LOVE GOES ON…” released in November 1989, this piece is an expansive piano ballad running over seven minutes, yet it carefully portrays everyday scenes like phone conversations and casual gestures during a drive.

In 1993, it was featured in a Sony Handycam commercial, and the “brake light” moment mentioned in the lyrics became such a hot topic that many couples imitated it.

Beloved as a wedding and reception staple, it’s also sure to wrap a year-end party in warmth if you sing it there.

With its relaxed tempo that makes it easy to sing and the comfort of being widely known across generations, it’s a perfect choice for karaoke.

Linda LindaTHE BLUE HEARTS27rank/position

[Official] THE BLUE HEARTS “Linda Linda” [1st Single (1987/5/1)] THE BLUE HEARTS / Linda Linda

One of The Blue Hearts’ signature songs, and the kind you can just scream and have fun with—whether live or at karaoke! For the quiet intro, sing carefully and with feeling, then for the chorus don’t worry about pitch—just belt it out and it’ll always get everyone hyped! Momentum is important, of course, but if you just shout recklessly you’ll hurt your throat, so focus on engaging your vocal cords and resonating in your chest.

Even just placing a hand on your chest while you sing helps you feel the resonance and hear your own voice better! You might get caught up in the intensity, but don’t forget to breathe—and enjoy singing!

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Kubota Mami

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RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION28rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite” (M-1 Grand Prix 2024 Promotion Video Theme Song)

Just hearing the intro guitar riff is enough to get many people’s blood pumping, isn’t it? Released in August 2004, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s “Rewrite” is a rock tune that’s remained a karaoke staple for years.

Chosen as an opening theme for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist, the song is also included on the classic album Sol-fa and is widely known as one of the band’s signature tracks.

Its emotional lyrics, which feel like an eruption of pent-up feelings, are sure to resonate deeply with those overwhelmed by daily work.

When the chorus—the biggest climax—hits, the best way to sing it is to forget about pitch and just shout at the top of your lungs! Next time you’re with coworkers or old school friends, why not grab the mic and scream your heart out?