[40s] Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers Ranking [2026]

Time goes byEvery Little Thing64rank/position

「Time goes by」MUSIC VIDEO / Every Little Thing

Released in 1998, this was Every Little Thing’s first ballad to be issued as a single.

The lyrics, which speak of a couple who chose to part ways after many twists and turns—holding bittersweet memories while not turning their backs on the past and choosing instead to move forward—truly resonate.

It’s a masterpiece that women in their forties, seasoned by experience, can sing while fondly recalling the passage of time.

Take a small time trip and try singing it as you gently remember those sparkling days.

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hiyori

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SAY YESCHAGE and ASKA65rank/position

[MV] SAY YES / CHAGE and ASKA

This song, which can be considered one of CHAGE and ASKA’s signature tracks, was released in 1991.

It was used as the theme song for the hugely popular TV drama “The 101st Proposal.” When a moving drama and a great song come together, the synergy is incredible, and this is one of those songs that instantly brings back the show’s scenes along with the melody.

It became their best-selling single.

Since it’s widely known across generations, it’s also a surefire hit when you go to karaoke with younger colleagues from work.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Even when I become an old ladyMoritaka Chisato66rank/position

Chisato Moritaka “Even If I Become an Old Lady” (Live)

Don’t you think you might feel differently listening to this song now compared to when it was first released? It’s a classic that sings about feelings women have always had, unchanged over time.

I bet guys of the same generation might request it when you go to karaoke together.

Instead of saying, “I’ve totally become an auntie now!” I hope you sing it to the fullest—energetic and cute.

If you can keep a steady rhythm in those high notes, the guy who requested it will definitely be impressed!

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Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

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Don’t give upZARD67rank/position

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

ZARD is an indispensable presence in the Japanese music scene of the ’90s, and for many women in their 40s today, their songs undoubtedly evoke the soundtracks of youth.

The late Izumi Sakai’s clear vocals and heartfelt lyrics never lose their luster, and they’re still hugely popular at karaoke.

“Makenaide” is one of ZARD’s most famous songs, a true classic with nationwide acclaim.

While the pitch is slightly on the higher side, it’s generally average overall, and the melody is straightforward without large leaps in range, making it a good candidate for high karaoke scores.

Aim to articulate each word of the lyrics clearly, and sing the chorus with crisp, powerful delivery!

MPurinsesu Purinsesu68rank/position

Princess Princess “M”

Princess Princess is a five-member band that left numerous legends as a leading all-female act in the J-POP scene.

Despite being the B-side to their 7th single “Diamonds” and lacking any commercial tie-in, this ballad is counted among the band’s signature songs.

For women in their 40s—the generation that grew up with it—it’s not only nostalgic but likely bittersweet, resonating with their own experiences.

It remains a classic frequently covered by artists today, and one you can’t help but sing with feeling at karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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TemptationGLAY69rank/position

GLAY / Temptation

I bet many of you were totally hooked on GLAY back then.

This is a signature song by the rock band that represents Japan.

The fast-paced melody feels incredibly good, and whether you’re listening or singing along, it draws you right into its world.

Give it a go and sing it cool and with confidence!

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Murakami Shinpei

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I’m falling in love with you againSakamoto Fuyumi70rank/position

Fuyumi Sakamoto – I'm Falling in Love with You Again

Fuyumi Sakamoto is a singer known for hit songs like “Yozakura Oshichi,” who actively performs not only enka but also covers of other artists.

Her single “Mata Kimi ni Koishiteru,” famous as the theme song for Sanwa Shurui’s iichiko commercials, is a cover of Billy BanBan that became a major hit.

Her voice, which exudes the charm of a mature woman, is something people in their 40s might be able to recreate at karaoke.

Since it has been broadcast as a commercial song for many years, it’s a karaoke number that’s likely to resonate with listeners of all generations.

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Hoshino Takashi

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