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

Summer Days of 1993class36rank/position

Summer Day of 1993 – class (Full) Lyrics: Hajime Matsumoto Music: Ken Sato cover

The music group class was created at the behest of a producer who wanted to form a duo like Simon & Garfunkel in Japan.

Their first single, “Natsu no Hi no 1993,” used as the theme song for the TV drama “Kimi to Itsumademo,” became a massive hit, achieving million-seller status despite being their debut.

For those in their forties—the generation of the time—it might be the first song that comes to mind when you think of summer.

With its distinctive, beautiful choral work, it’s a pop tune that’s perfect for two people to sing together at karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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FriendsREBECCA37rank/position

REBECCA “Friends” (Shibuya Public Hall, Dec 25, 1985)

Here is the fourth single from the popular band Rebecca, released in 1985.

It was used as the ending theme for the drama “Half Potato na Oretachi” and became a big hit, so many of you may remember it.

The lyrics depict youthful romance, and vocalist NOKKO’s fashion—somewhat influenced by Madonna at the time—also brings back memories.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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single bedSha ran Q38rank/position

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)

The song “Single Bed,” which became a major hit in 1994, is likely one many people in their 40s and older used to sing at karaoke.

This track, which became Sharan Q’s first million-seller, is a classic ballad about a breakup.

If you’re singing it at karaoke, you can go for a gentle, heartfelt rendition—or hype things up by doing a Tsunku impression.

if…DA PUMP39rank/position

DA PUMP / if… (short ver.)

DA PUMP, the dance and vocal group that experienced a resurgence thanks to the 2018 smash hit “U.S.A.,” saw their 12th single “if…” become the group’s biggest hit and a signature song from their early years.

For those in their 40s—the generation that grew up with it—the emotional melody is memorable, of course, but many likely also recall the handsome-sounding rap.

If possible, it’s a catchy yet wistful number that we’d love to see sung by two men at karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai40rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Sakuranbo

Known as one of Ai Otsuka’s signature songs, this track is her second single, released in December 2003.

As an upbeat, bright love song, it captured the hearts of many.

The lyrics depict a sweet, always-together relationship like a pair of cherries, giving listeners energy and courage.

It’s also beloved in a wide range of settings, even being used as a cheer song for high school baseball.

If you sing it at karaoke, it’s perfect for relieving the stress of busy days at work or parenting.

Belt it out with full energy and get everyone pumped up!

Zankyo SankaAimer41rank/position

Aimer「Zankyosanka」MUSIC VIDEO（Demon Slayer:Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc Theme Song）

Released in January 2022, “Zankyosanka” was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc.

Many listeners were captivated by Aimer’s powerful yet emotive vocals, the vibrant, world-building sound, and the refined lyrics.

Belt it out at karaoke while feeling the exhilarating momentum of the track coursing through you, and even your everyday worries might start to feel like, “No use fretting about it!” Give this song—beloved by countless fans—a try and get the crowd going with your friends!

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko42rank/position

“Cruel Angel’s Thesis” MUSIC VIDEO (HD ver.) / Zankoku na Tenshi no Te-ze “The Cruel Angel’s Thesis”

As you know, it’s the theme song of the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis.” It proudly ranked third in the karaoke song rankings of the Heisei era.

Widely embraced across generations, it’s a landmark of anime songs.

Everyone knows it, and everyone can get hyped to it.

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Araki Jakkan

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