[40s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]

TouchIwasaki Yoshimi29rank/position

“Touch” Yoshimi Iwasaki High-Quality Audio Anime Theme Song 1985

This is the 20th single by singer Yoshimi Iwasaki, who has been studying business administration in the master’s program at J.F.

Oberlin University Graduate School since 2021.

It became a massive hit as the opening theme for the TV anime Touch, and those in their 40s—regardless of gender—likely remember it along with scenes from the show.

Because the tempo is fast and the melody features a sharp drop from high notes to low, it’s a good idea to check it once before performing it at karaoke.

Overall, the pitch range isn’t very wide, so it’s an anime song recommended even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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cherrysupittsu30rank/position

Spitz / Cherry

A signature song by Spitz that sings of parting and new beginnings.

Released in April 1996, this single was a massive hit, selling over 1.613 million copies.

It depicts someone stepping forward into a hope-filled future while holding memories of a loved one close, and its refreshing yet slightly wistful melody feels like a pleasant spring breeze.

Many listeners may have been moved by the straightforward lyrics about feeling as if the mere sound of words of love could make you stronger.

The song is also included on the classic album Indigo Chiheisen, and in recent years it has been featured in NTT East’s commercials.

It’s sure to make the start of a new season even more wonderful.

wailing in griefKudō Shizuka31rank/position

Shizuka Kudo / Doukoku [Official Video]

Among Shizuka Kudo’s discography, which has produced numerous hit songs since her solo debut in the late 1980s, the best-selling is Dokoku, released in 1993.

It’s a masterpiece with lyrics by Miyuki Nakajima and music by Tsugutoshi Goto, and many women in their 40s today likely have this song in their karaoke repertoire.

The song is set in a relatively low key for a female vocal, making it a great choice for women with lower voices who struggle with high notes.

Kudo’s characteristic, sultry vibrato is applied naturally, yet the difficulty level is modest, with a very memorable and easy-to-sing melody line.

It’s also recommended for those aiming for high scores at karaoke.

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KOH-1

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B-BlueBOØWY32rank/position

B-Blue

Among men in their early 50s, many likely listened to BOØWY.

The band left behind numerous memorable rock classics, and among them, the song I especially recommend for its ease of singing is “B-Blue.” While its heart-pounding melody is striking, the vocal range is surprisingly narrow, and the vocal line doesn’t fluctuate much.

It’s a song you can comfortably handle even when your voice is worn out after a second party, so consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Ryo

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I want to become the wind.THE BOOM33rank/position

Kaze Ni Naritai (Samba, Novo)

A heartwarming message song woven from samba rhythms and Japanese lyrics.

It’s a gem that rides on a light, flowing groove to express the wish to be free together with a loved one.

Released in March 1995 as THE BOOM’s 16th single, it was also included on the previous year’s album “Kyokutou Samba.” Chosen for numerous commercials, including DC Card and J-PHONE, it left a lasting impression on many people.

With rich percussion and the gentle vocals of Kazufumi Miyazawa in perfect harmony, the song was featured in high school music textbooks and, in July 2013, realized a collaboration with a popular idol group on Fuji TV’s “FNS Uta no Natsumatsuri.” It’s a moving track to play when you want to feel the bond with someone special.

Longing, poignancy, and strength of heartShinohara Ryoko with t.komuro34rank/position

Ryoko Shinohara with Tetsuya Komuro 'Longing, Heartache, and Strength' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Ryoko Shinohara’s classic song “Itoshisa to Setsunasa to Kokorozuyosa to.” Since it was composed by Tetsuya Komuro, you can feel that distinctive Komuro sound throughout the track.

For men in their 40s, it likely stands out as the theme song for the legendary game Street Fighter.

The song features expansive, soaring vocals, but the overall range—mid2B to hiD—isn’t particularly wide, so it’s surprisingly easy to sing.

There’s no use of falsetto, and the melody is fairly simple, so as long as you set the key appropriately, you should be able to sing it without issue.

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Ryo

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First LoveUtada Hikaru35rank/position

Hikaru Utada – First Love

A signature ballad by Hikaru Utada that offers a rewarding challenge for low-voiced women in their 40s.

The range spans E3–F5, with plenty of high notes, but it captivates with a conversational verse and expressive emotion.

Many people will know this song.

Because it’s sung with a whispery tone, it likely brings to mind a kind of head-voice feel.

Basically, head voice requires steady breath support.

If you tense up when taking a breath, you’ll end up chest breathing and won’t inhale enough air.

Diaphragmatic (abdominal) breathing is crucial.

Also, since the song builds up a lot toward the end, be mindful of balancing your volume.

For the English parts, try singing fluidly along the melodic line to lock into the rhythm.

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Kubota Mami

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