Popular Japanese karaoke songs. Latest rankings [2026]

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko41rank/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 an ultra-popular song that even people who aren’t into anime recognize.

It’s up-tempo and incredibly catchy, with a striking, multi-layered theme that feels like a prayer for those heading toward a harsh destiny.

Sung by Yoko Takahashi, it was released as a single in October 1995.

Created as the opening theme for the hit TV anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, it became a massive success, boosted by the anime’s popularity.

The song consistently ranks near the top in karaoke charts.

Since then, it has been covered by many artists and truly stands as an anime song Japan can be proud of.

Since everyone knows it and can sing it, it’s a must-pick when you want to hype up a karaoke session or event with friends!

Night Sky Patrol of TomorrowOrangestar42rank/position

Orangestar – Asunoyozora Shoukaihan (feat. IA) Official Video

Posted in 2014, this Vocaloid song was the first track using the voice synthesizer IA to be inducted into the “Legendary” category on Nico Nico Douga.

As one of Orangestar’s signature songs, it captivates with its driving rock sound and shimmering, shifting synthesizers.

The lyrics, which intertwine anxiety about whether tomorrow will come with the determination to keep moving forward, have resonated with many listeners.

It’s included on the album “Mikansei Eight Beats,” and a later band-arranged version was also released.

If you sing it at karaoke, aim for a natural, unforced vocal delivery to bring out the song’s atmosphere.

With numerous covers by singers, it’s a track that can liven up karaoke even with people who aren’t very familiar with Vocaloid.

Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi43rank/position

Kazuyoshi Saito – Ballad of a Singer (2008 Ver.) [Music Video]

It’s a song that makes you want to sing while thinking of someone special on those long autumn nights when you somehow crave human warmth.

It’s one of singer-songwriter Kazuyoshi Saito’s signature tracks, depicting the love of a clumsy protagonist who can only convey his true feelings through song.

The lyrics, which carry straightforward emotions that are hard to say in everyday life, are beautiful and hit you right in the heart.

Released in November 1997 as his 15th single, the song is well-known for being covered by many artists and for being chosen as the theme song for the 2017 animated film Lu Over the Wall.

With the warm tones of the acoustic guitar and Saito’s gentle vocals resonating deeply, it’s also a great choice to sing with all your heart at karaoke.

ultra soulB’z44rank/position

B’z / ultra soul

A powerful cheer song by B’z that fires you up to believe there are no limits! The inner conflicts everyone faces while chasing their dreams, and the frustration of not being able to enjoy the present out of fear of the outcome, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in March 2001 as their 31st single, this track also gained popularity as the theme song for the World Aquatics Championships.

When you feel yourself growing timid before a big goal, it will surely give you the courage to say, “I can still do this!”

Time Goes ByEvery Little Thing45rank/position

Time goes by – Every Little Thing (Full)

A gemlike love ballad that embraces everyone’s sense of incompleteness and loneliness with universal kindness.

Released by Every Little Thing in February 1998, this song beautifully portrays how lovers may hurt each other yet grow together through the experience of love.

Chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday 10 p.m.

drama “Amai Kekkon” (“Sweet Marriage”), it went on to sell over 1.4 million copies.

It has since become familiar as a commercial song for numerous brands, including Toyota and SoftBank.

With its gentle melody and lyrics whose depth resonates more and more with life experience, it’s sure to move you.