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

if…DA PUMP41rank/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 Ai42rank/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 SankaAimer43rank/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 Yoko44rank/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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instinctShiina Ringo45rank/position

Ringo Sheena – Instinct

Ringo Sheena’s songs, which depict instinctive human desires, impulses, and inner conflicts, are captivating for their distinctive sound grounded in alternative rock and interwoven with elements of jazz and classical music.

Candidly portraying emotions such as jealousy and narcissism, they also express an adult reality that has shed the moratorium of youth.

Released in October 1999, this work was selected as the ending theme for the Nippon TV music program “FUN” and reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Its music video—set in a hospital with innovative direction—also drew attention, winning the BEST FEMALE VIDEO award at the SPACE SHOWER MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS.

With powerful vocals and highly message-driven lyrics, it’s a recommended track for those who want to enjoy self-expression at karaoke.