[For People in Their 60s] Karaoke Songs That Get the Crowd Going: Ranking [2026]

Winter LightningArisu6rank/position

Alice – Winter Lightning

This song by Alice, released in 1977, features lyrics written by Shinji Tanimura and music composed by Takao Horiuchi.

It didn’t attract much attention at the time of its release, but its popularity gradually grew the following year.

It’s one of Alice’s signature songs, notable for the striking “Ah” shout in the middle, and because it’s highly performance-oriented, it’s likely to be a hit at karaoke if two people sing it with good harmonies.

It’s a song you’ll definitely want everyone around you to clap along to in support.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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The Bride SambaGō Hiromi7rank/position

Bride Samba – Hiromi Go

Hiromi Go, who debuted in 1972 and won a passionate following with his sweet looks and voice.

His song “Oyome Samba” has a samba-like rhythm that makes you want to start dancing, making it perfect for karaoke.

There’s a call-and-response part, so it’s easy to enjoy together with other participants around you, which is great, right? When a string of enka and other sad songs has brought the mood down and you want to brighten the atmosphere a bit, this song is your go-to.

Move your body within your comfort level and sing it cheerfully!

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Yuuki

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Tears aren’t just for show.Nakamori Akina8rank/position

[Official] Akina Nakamori / “Tears Aren’t Just for Show” (Live in ’87: A HUNDRED days at Tokyo Kosei Nenkin Kaikan, 1987-10-17) AKINA NAKAMORI

This song captivates with its heartfelt lyrics and powerful vocals.

It showcases Akina Nakamori’s vocal prowess to the fullest, was released in November 1984, and topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Written and composed by Yosui Inoue, it marks a pivotal track in Nakamori’s transition from idol to artist.

With its rich emotional expression and lyrical depth, it resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced a farewell to someone dear.

It’s also karaoke-friendly with its relaxed tempo, allowing for expressive, heartfelt singing.

Try it when you’re gathered with friends reminiscing about the past or on a night when you want to sink into your memories.

setting sunyoshida takurou9rank/position

Setting Sun - Takuro Yoshida

Since its release in 1973, this song—one of Takuro Yoshida’s signature pieces—has been recorded in various versions.

The lyrics, written by Osami Okamoto based on his real-life experiences wandering in Hokkaido, are particularly striking.

Blending elements of folk and rock, the song was performed at the charity concert “Save Japan!”, where an array of star artists—who would not ordinarily share the stage—came together to play it.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Takao KisugiKisugi Takao10rank/position

In the middle of a dream / Takao Kisugi

Some of you may have experienced parting ways with someone important in order to pursue your own dreams and goals.

A karaoke song recommended for people in their 60s who’ve had such experiences is Takao Kisugi’s “Yume no Tochuu” (In the Midst of a Dream), released in 1981.

This song is essentially the same—melody and lyrics—as Hiroko Yakushimaru’s debut single “Sailor Suit and Machine Gun,” which came out shortly after, differing only in title.

Many listeners are likely to be reminded of the film when they hear it.

The song portrays the bittersweet feelings of a man who, despite parting for the sake of his future, still can’t let go.

Recall the days when you kept running toward your dreams, and give it a sing.

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SAKI

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