Kyu Sakamoto’s Most Popular Karaoke Songs Ranking [2026]

I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu1rank/position

Sukiyaki

A signature song by Kyu Sakamoto that remains beloved by many as a major Showa-era hit.

Its positive message and heartwarming vocals resonate with people in their 70s.

Released in 1961, the song achieved great success not only in Japan but also overseas, reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming Japan’s first global million-seller.

How about enjoying a pleasant moment by singing it together with friends, acquaintances, or family?

There’s always tomorrowSakamoto Kyu2rank/position

Kyu Sakamoto – There’s Always Tomorrow

This work humorously portrays a young man who has fallen in love with a schoolgirl in a sailor uniform he sees at the station every day, yet can’t quite find the courage to speak to her.

Its optimistic message—that even if you fail, there’s always tomorrow—warms listeners’ hearts.

Sung by Kyu Sakamoto in 1963, the song became a major hit, selling around 800,000 copies, and was later covered by artists such as Ulfuls and Re:Japan.

Its bright major-key melody and catchy chorus are the kind that make you smile the moment they start playing in an intro quiz: “Oh, it’s this one!” Why not hum along together as you reminisce about the tender feelings of youthful love?

Look up at the stars in the nightSakamoto Kyu3rank/position

Kyu Sakamoto – Look Up at the Stars in the Night (with lyrics)

Beloved as a song for gazing up at the night sky, this piece resonates as a warm cheer for those facing hardships.

With lyrics by Rokusuke Ei and music by Taku Izumi, it has long been cherished in the enveloping voice of Kyu Sakamoto.

Released as a single in May 1963, it was originally written as the theme song for a musical.

It is also a celebrated masterpiece that won the Japan Record Award for Composition.

Though born as a message of encouragement for young people studying at night school, it is a song that transcends generations to bring hope and courage.

It’s perfect for everyone to sing together during recreation time at the facility.

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your handsSakamoto Kyu4rank/position

Kyu Sakamoto / If You’re Happy and You Know It (1964–65)

Its charm lies in being able to enjoy a heartwarming classic while expressing it through full-body movement.

It’s a song where you can share the joy of connecting with others alongside a simple, friendly melody.

Released by Kyu Sakamoto in 1964, it became one of his signature songs alongside “Ue o Muite Arukō” (Sukiyaki).

Based on an American folk song, the Japanese lyrics were written by Toshito Kimura with a wish for peace and friendship.

A heartwarming experience in the Philippines inspired the song, and it is said to have spread through activities at the YMCA.

It has been widely used in films and commercials and has long been cherished in educational settings.

How about enjoying handclaps and body movements together with older adults and letting the conversation blossom with fond memories?

There’s Always Tomorrow: National Pension VersionSakamoto Kyu5rank/position

“Ashita ga Aru sa” in the “National Pension Version.” #parodySong #AnthemForSeniors #AshitaGaAruSa #NationalPension

Let’s try arranging and singing a classic song that people have listened to when they’re tired or about to lose heart! Here are some ideas for the “There’s Always Tomorrow” National Pension version.

“There’s Always Tomorrow” is memorable for the hope it carries toward tomorrow and its message about the importance of not giving up and continuing to strive even after failure.

This time, since it’s a National Pension version, the key point is lyrics that express thoughts and feelings about the National Pension.

People have various feelings about the National Pension, but with lyrics that are positive and uplifting, it seems like it will put you in a cheerful mood.