Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers: Top Male Rankings [2026]

Tokyoyashiki takajin64rank/position

Tokyo

Released in March 1993, this mood-kayō song fuses tearful enka with sophisticated urban pop.

Through Kansai-dialect lyrics, it movingly portrays a romance and breakup with a man she met in Tokyo, along with her complex feelings toward the city.

Takajin Yashiki was an artist who was active mainly in the Kansai region, also serving as a host of the popular program “Sei! Young.” This piece became a hit as requests on cable radio surged, ultimately selling a total of 600,000 copies.

In live performances, he would sometimes change the place name in the chorus to match the concert location, valuing a sense of unity with the audience.

When singing it at karaoke, it’s recommended to sing at an easy, relaxed pace while thinking of your hometown and the special people you’ve met.

Youthful AmigoShūji to Akira65rank/position

Tomohisa Yamashita, Kazuya Kamenashi, Shuuji to Akira, Seishun Amigo

The famous song “Seishun Amigo,” known as the theme for the popular drama Nobuta wo Produce, is sung by the duo Shuuji to Akira—Tomohisa Yamashita and Kazuya Kamenashi.

It features a passionate melody with a slight kayōkyoku flavor, yet it also carries a certain laid-back, Heisei-era nonchalance that leaves an impression.

Although falsetto appears, the overall range is narrow, so even men in their 30s can sing it comfortably while reminiscing.

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Ryo

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Until we meet againOzaki Kiyohiko66rank/position

In memory of Kiyohiko Ozaki — “Until the Day We Meet Again” (Mata Au Hi Made) HD

Kiyohiko Ozaki, who is a quarter British and Japanese.

Many people have been captivated by his voice, which feels unlike that of a typical Japanese singer.

“Mata Au Hi Made” is one of his signature songs and has been covered by many artists.

It’s a fairly challenging song, but if you can sing it through, it will definitely get the crowd going.

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Ryo

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YOUNG MANSaijō Hideki67rank/position

Hideki Saijo – Young Man (Y.M.C.A.)

Here is a single released by Hideki Saijo in 1979.

It’s a cover of Village People’s “Y.M.C.A.,” a disco hit in the United States, with Japanese lyrics written by his then-manager, Ryuji Amagai.

If everyone sings along while forming the letters “Y,” “M,” “C,” and “A” with their bodies—said to stand for “Young Man Can do Anything”—it’s sure to get the crowd going.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Beat ItMichael Jackson68rank/position

Michael Jackson – Beat It (Official 4K Video)

This song, notable for its powerful guitar riff and sharp beats, is included on the 1983 album Thriller.

Showcasing Michael Jackson’s appeal to the fullest, it became a massive hit, spending three consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The lyrics convey the importance of avoiding violence and conflict and walking your own path.

At karaoke, its rhythmic melody and powerful vocals can instantly elevate the atmosphere.

Belt it out with friends, and it’s sure to become an unforgettable memory.

cherrysupittsu69rank/position

Spitz / Cherry

It’s a masterpiece whose clear, beautiful melody resonates deep in the heart.

It weaves together memories of a faint romance and the resolve to move forward after overcoming them.

Released in April 1996 as one of Spitz’s signature songs, it topped the Oricon charts and became a million-seller.

It’s also very popular for karaoke and is sure to liven up drinking parties and school reunions.

It’s the perfect song for men in their 40s who feel nostalgic about their youth.

Love Story Comes SuddenlyOda Kazumasa70rank/position

Love Story Suddenly – Kazumasa Oda

As one of Kazumasa Oda’s signature hits, it remains a popular karaoke staple.

It was included as the B-side to the single “Oh! Yeah!” released on February 6, 1991.

Chosen as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Tokyo Love Story,” this track likely conjures up images of Honami Suzuki, who played the lead, and many people may find themselves smiling as they hear her say, “Kanji.”