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

huge nuisanceUNICORN76rank/position

Unicorn - “Great Nuisance”

Reunited in 2009, UNICORN has continued to captivate fans with their energetic activities.

Their signature song “Dai Meiwaku” (Great Nuisance) was released as a single in 1989, the first year of the Heisei era.

The song features a businessman who’s just bought his dream home only to be assigned to a solo post away from his family, and it comically portrays his mix of joy and sorrow with an uptempo beat.

It’s a highly popular track among both younger generations who discovered the band after their reunion and longtime fans alike.

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utatane

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flareSuperfly77rank/position

Superfly “Flare” (Music Video) — Theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Scarlet”

Superfly’s “Flare,” which was used as the theme song for the 2019 NHK morning drama series “Scarlet,” was released in 2019.

The lyrics feel as if they cheer on women in their 40s who are busy with childcare and work, and the melody’s bright, Latin-like rhythm lifts your spirits just by listening.

So when you’re busy and starting to feel worn out, please try singing this song.

You’ll receive sun-like brightness and energy from it!

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Yuuko.S

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I’m glad I met you.Koizumi Kyoko78rank/position

Kyoko Koizumi – I'm Glad I Met You (Official Video)

Speaking of Kyoko Koizumi’s signature songs, this is the one everyone knows.

Since its release in 1991, it has continued to resonate with many people.

Written by Koizumi herself—who was also active as an actress—the song was used as the theme for the drama “Papa to Nacchan.” It expresses the importance of meeting a loved one and the gratitude felt after experiencing separation.

Combined with Koizumi’s clear, transparent vocals, it’s a masterpiece that deeply moves listeners.

It’s perfect not only for getting the crowd going at karaoke, but also for singing with heartfelt feelings for someone special.

TouchIwasaki Yoshimi79rank/position

Touch – Yoshimi Iwasaki (Full)

Released in 1985, the song “Touch” is one of Yoshimi Iwasaki’s signature hits, loved by a wide range of generations.

It’s also known as the opening theme of the anime Touch, and for many people, hearing it brings baseball to mind.

The song has a great upbeat rhythm and is a go-to crowd-pleaser at karaoke.

I’m sure it’ll hype everyone up if you dance like Yoshimi Iwasaki, too.

At an all-girls karaoke session, singing it with an extra-sexy flair to get laughs would probably be a hit as well.

When you sing it, ask everyone to clap along!

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sasashina

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Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro80rank/position

Motohiro Hata / Promise of a Sunflower (Short Ver.)

Singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata, beloved for his gentle vocals and cute persona, has gained widespread popularity.

His 17th single, “Himawari no Yakusoku” (Promise of a Sunflower), became a major hit, serving not only as the theme song for the 3D CGI animated film “STAND BY ME Doraemon” but also appearing in numerous commercials.

Its love-filled lyrics can take on a different shade of meaning when sung by a woman.

Although it’s a male artist’s song, the overall key is relatively high, making it a karaoke track that many women may find easier to sing.

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Hoshino Takashi

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