Karaoke Ranking of Popular Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi Songs [2026]

JunkoNagabuchi Tsuyoshi8rank/position

Junko

“Junko” is one of the all-time classics that defined Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s early career.

Released as a single in 1980, it became a massive hit, topping the Oricon charts for eight consecutive weeks.

The lyrics, which unfold as a man’s lovelorn grudge from start to finish—both lonely and somehow a bit comical—paired with a wistful melody, speak to Nagabuchi’s outstanding talent as a singer-songwriter.

While the melody has a folky feel, note that the sound arrangement bounces with a funk-like groove.

As long as you manage your breath properly all the way up to the high notes in the chorus, it shouldn’t be overly difficult to sing.

It’s a surefire karaoke staple, so master it and get the crowd going!

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KOH-1

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It’s nothing good.Nagabuchi Tsuyoshi9rank/position

It's nothing good.

Hit songs and TV dramas are inseparable, aren’t they? This track was also used as the theme song for the TBS drama Oyako Zigzag, starring Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi.

I think everyone in their 50s watched it.

The supporting cast was full of fun personalities too, including Saburo Ishikura and Shigeru Muroi.

The somewhat wistful lyrics—about how life goes on even as we’re betrayed, deceived, and hurt—fit the drama perfectly.

I imagine many people of that generation still sing it at karaoke.

From folk to rock, and from rock to songs that embody the Japanese spirit, Nagabuchi has evolved with the times.

I’m excited to see what he does next!

Let’s be happyNagabuchi Tsuyoshi10rank/position

Let's be happy

Artists from around this generation often sing in their chest voice rather than relying on falsetto, so their vocal ranges aren’t that high.

I bet some of you have sung this song at ceremonies quite a bit.

The piano and strings in the background sound beautiful, and it seems like it would feel great to sing.

The tempo isn’t fast, so you can sing calmly and with care.

The verse has that distinct Nagabuchi style, so if you focus on it too much you might end up sounding like an impression of him (lol).

I feel like you shouldn’t worry too much about the Nagabuchi flavor—sing it in your own voice.

In the chorus, if you sing boldly, like “I’m a great singer!” your voice will come out solidly and you’ll enjoy singing it.

In the end, it’d be awesome if you could get everyone involved and turn it into a big sing-along!

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Kubota Mami

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Mother’s SongNagabuchi Tsuyoshi11rank/position

Kaachan No Uta

This is a warm, gentle song that looks back on the image of a mother who was always a source of strength while struggling after moving to Tokyo.

It is said to be based on Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s own experiences, and was included on the 2017 album “BLACK TRAIN.” The simple acoustic guitar and vocal style conveys the desire to deliver the lyrics straight and true.

The gentle, conversational tempo makes it easy to sing, and it may also be important to consider how to infuse the performance with one’s own feelings toward one’s mother.

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kappamaki

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oneNagabuchi Tsuyoshi12rank/position

Hitotsu

Many people still remember Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi singing “Hitotsu” from Kadonowaki Elementary School in Ishinomaki—an area affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake—during the 62nd NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen broadcast on December 31, 2011.

The following February, it was released as his 45th single.

The piano accompaniment and solemn strings, combined with Nagabuchi’s gentle yet powerful vocals and melody, are enough to bring tears to your eyes.

The song spans a wide vocal range and the chorus includes fairly high notes, so it can be somewhat challenging overall to sing at karaoke.

However, the melody itself is simple and easy to follow.

Because it’s a straightforward ballad that leaves little room to hide, prioritize singing it with heartfelt emotion.

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KOH-1

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My Very Own Merry ChristmasNagabuchi Tsuyoshi13rank/position

My Very Own Merry Christmas

A rare Christmas song for Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi.

Included on the album HEAVY GAUGE released in June 1983, this track is a simple yet heartwarming hidden gem.

It marks an important period when he was transitioning from a delicate folk singer to his trademark raspy, passionate vocal style.

The lyrics, filled with kindness, depict the warmth of family and the forging of new bonds.

When singing it at karaoke, try delivering it gently, as if telling memories to a child.

It’s recommended for those who want to feel the happiness of spending Christmas night with someone special.

Toward TomorrowNagabuchi Tsuyoshi14rank/position

Toward Tomorrow

It’s a song that conveys a strong message of support, encouraging you to believe in yourself and keep moving forward.

Originally included on the 1985 album “HUNGRY,” it was later featured on the self-cover album “NEVER CHANGE.” The lyrics, carried by a thick, full-band sound, emphasize the importance of continuing to run, powerfully stirring the hope within your heart.

It’s also quite singable thanks to its tempo and distinctive vocal style; if you aim for a laid-back, almost brusque delivery, you can capture the song’s vibe without worrying too much about precise pitch.

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kappamaki

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