[40s] Karaoke Popularity Ranking by Generation [2026]

By the time of the Christmas carolsInagaki Junichi92rank/position

Junichi Inagaki, Kōmi Hirose – Around the Time of the Christmas Carol

Singer Junichi Inagaki, who developed a love for Western music under the influence of his father from a young age and also performs as a drummer at live shows.

His 27th single, “At the Time of Christmas Carols,” used as the theme song for the TV drama Homework, is widely known as a classic Christmas song in J-pop, even though, true to its title, it depicts the period leading up to Christmas and isn’t actually a winter song.

Its wistful lyrics and melody pair perfectly with the scenes of the chilly season.

For men in their 40s—the generation it belongs to—it’s a poignant number that makes you want to sing it at karaoke during the Christmas season.

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Hoshino Takashi

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From the depths of the heart to the water planetMoriguchi Hiroko93rank/position

From the depths of the heart to the water planet

Singer Hiroko Moriguchi, known as a leading figure among the original “baradoru” (variety-idol) talents and still an indispensable presence on variety shows today.

Her debut single as an idol singer, “Mizu no Hoshi e Ai wo Komete,” was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam.

If a woman in her 40s sings it, it’s sure to hype up men of the same generation, so it’s a great pick for karaoke.

There’s also an arranged version included on the 2019 album GUNDAM SONG COVERS, making it a karaoke song that’s fun to compare across versions.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Marunouchi SadisticShiina Ringo94rank/position

Marunouchi Sadistic

It’s a stylish, quirky sound with jazz and blues elements, isn’t it? In fact, one of my students who had a limited range and couldn’t hit very high notes practiced this song many times in vocal training.

The overall range isn’t wide and it’s sung mainly in the mid register, but there are a few higher spots in the chorus.

As long as you catch the rhythm and nail the timing there, you’ll be able to sing them smoothly! Since the song is all about rhythm, it’s important to mark the beats clearly—even a bit exaggerated.

If you move with the groove while singing, it helps you relax and keeps you from pushing your voice, so I really want you to lean into the cool vibe.

Also, you’ll probably notice this once you’re in the groove, but be sure to cut off the notes cleanly where needed and give space its due as you sing.

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Kubota Mami

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balladKetsumeishi95rank/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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secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE96rank/position

ZONE “secret base ~What You Gave Me~” MUSIC VIDEO

The moment that somewhat melancholy intro phrase starts playing, you can’t help but get teary-eyed… there must be people who feel that way.

ZONE’s 2001 single “secret base ~Kimi ga Kureta Mono~” is their biggest hit, and some of you may remember that a cover of the song was used as the theme for the anime “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day,” which aired ten years later, leading to a revival hit.

It was hugely popular at karaoke back then and still is now, and its straightforward, unfolding melody makes it easy to try even if you’re not confident in your singing—and you might even score high at karaoke.

Since all the members sing in the original, it’s also a great choice to sing together with friends from your school days!

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KOH-1

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planetariumOtsuka Ai97rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

Ai Otsuka’s songs, woven from deep sorrow and vivid memories, beautifully transmute the scars of heartbreak.

The aching feelings of love and sense of loss are reflected in lyrics that sparkle like stars in the night sky, sure to strike a powerful chord with listeners.

Released in September 2005, the work drew major attention, including being selected as an image song for the drama “Boys Over Flowers.” While standing by the pain of a broken heart, this track also gives you the courage to look forward and take your next steps.

Please take your time and listen closely to the voice and words that will seep into your heart.

You’ll surely feel the strength to take a new step forward.

GibbsShiina Ringo98rank/position

Shiina Ringo – Gibbs

This work was woven by Ringo Sheena in her youthful days at seventeen.

It deftly portrays the feelings of a narrator whose lover wants to take photos while she resists the act, as well as her complicated thoughts about the word “absolute,” capturing the fundamental anxieties and conflicts surrounding love.

Released in January 2000, it drew attention as an advance single for the album “Shōso Strip” and won the Excellence Award at the 42nd Japan Record Awards that same year.

While melodic, its powerful, rock-based sound stands apart from ballads that whisper of love in hushed tones.

It’s a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who continues to explore the shape of love.