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

I won’t fall in love anymore.Makihara Noriyuki92rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “I Won’t Fall in Love Again” (Music Video) [5th Single] (1992) Noriyuki Makihara / Mou Koi Nante Shinai

A signature song by Noriyuki Makihara, distinguished by its heartwarming melody that embraces both the ache of heartbreak and a brave front.

It gently portrays memories of a former lover and the nostalgia of everyday life, while the protagonist’s resolve to move forward resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in May 1992, it was chosen as the theme song for the NTV drama “After the Children Are Asleep.” Included on the album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono,” it became a major hit, ranking 7th on Oricon’s year-end chart.

This piece is a companion for those standing at life’s crossroads.

When you gather with friends for karaoke, its universally relatable lyrics and melody are sure to warm the heart.

moonlightOnitsuka Chihiro93rank/position

Chihiro Onitsuka – Gekkou (Moonlight)

The song released by Chihiro Onitsuka in 2000 is a masterpiece that resonates deeply with listeners.

It delicately expresses a lack of self-confidence and feelings of loneliness, while conveying a strong will to face harsh realities.

Released on March 7, 2001, the song was also used as the theme for the TV drama “TRICK,” generating a huge response.

Combined with Onitsuka’s overwhelming vocal performance, it captured the hearts of many.

This work is a perfect fit for women in their 40s leading busy lives with work and childcare.

Sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to elicit empathy across generations.

Letter ~Dear You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki94rank/position

Angela Aki “Letter ~Dear You, Fifteen~” Official Music Video (HD)

Angela Aki’s moving song “Tegami ~Haikei Juugo no Kimi e~” is an anthem that gives you the strength to face yourself.

Since its 2008 release, it has been cherished as a set piece for school chorus contests and as a graduation song, earning support from a wide range of generations—not only students, but also parents and seniors who fondly recall their youth.

Its lyrics, which give courage to live in the present and the future, make it a timeless masterpiece that stirs the heart.

Be sure to enjoy it at karaoke.

EverythingMISIA95rank/position

MISIA – Everything （Official HD Music Video）

It became a huge hit as the theme song for the drama “Yamato Nadeshiko.” It’s a full-fledged ballad that fully showcases her vocal range.

With this song, she earned her first No.

1 on the Oricon Singles Chart, and it’s also a favorite among women at karaoke.

I’d love for women confident in their singing to give it a try.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo96rank/position

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

Yo Hitoto’s Hanamizuki is one of those songs that someone sings every time you go to karaoke.

No wonder—it’s said to be the most-sung karaoke song of the Heisei era.

Since it’s so widely known, it’s an easy, recommended number to sing even when people of various ages get together for karaoke.

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Saitō Ayumu

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crescent moonayaka97rank/position

Ayaka – Crescent Moon

Ayaka, a singer-songwriter beloved for her soulful yet warm voice, has won widespread popularity.

Her fourth single, “Mikazuki,” chosen as the theme song for the information program “Future Watch: Connected TV @ Human,” is a soothing number with melodies and sounds that evoke a dreamy atmosphere.

Its poignant lyrics, themed around a long-distance relationship, may resonate deeply with women in their 40s, who might find themselves reflecting on their own memories.

Since its release, this lyrical ballad has likely been sung by many in karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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StoryAI98rank/position

AI – Story

AI’s signature song “Story,” with its familiar melody and heartfelt lyrics, resonates deeply with listeners.

Since its release in 2005, it has continued to be cherished by many fans and has become a timeless classic loved across generations.

This song, which sings of the bond between lovers in clear, certain words, is captivating not only for its superb lyrics and melody but also for AI’s embracing voice—powerful yet gentle.

Sing it earnestly with friends at karaoke, and your individual stories will intertwine, turning the moment into something truly unforgettable.