Karaoke That Gets the Crowd Going: Latest Rankings [2026]

PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism8rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]

This is the second single by Official HIGE DANDism, released in 2019.

It was written as the theme song for the film The Confidence Man JP: Episode of the Romance and has become widely recognized as a signature song for the band.

The lyrics portray the sorrow of an unrequited love, realistically expressing the pain of a relationship that cannot come true despite deep affection for the other person.

The protagonist’s yearning for a different meeting under different circumstances—and the struggle to accept the reality that it won’t happen—really hits home.

The beautiful piano melody and dramatic sound further amplify those emotions.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who’s experienced heartbreak in love or wants to sing with real feeling.

Belt it out at karaoke and it’s guaranteed to get the crowd going.

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko9rank/position

“Cruel Angel’s Thesis” MUSIC VIDEO (HD ver.) / Zankoku na Tenshi no Te-ze “The Cruel Angel’s Thesis”

It’s a song widely loved as the opening theme of the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, resounding with Yoko Takahashi’s vocals.

It portrays youth’s growth and potential with words that are both beautiful and powerful.

Released in October 1995, it has remained timeless for over 25 years, continuing to leave a deep impression on many people.

It even won first place overall in JOYSOUND’s ranking of songs sung during the Heisei era, boasting popularity across generations.

It’s a track that can lift your spirits when you listen during little moments—while doing housework or on a drive.

Why not hum along? It’s sure to set your heart dancing.

kawa-E (cute)Yabai T-shatsu Yasan10rank/position

Yabai T-Shirts Yasan – “Kawa-E” Music Video

This piece was written as the theme song for the film “Nisekoi.” Released in December 2018, it’s included on the album “Tank-top Festival in JAPAN.” First off, the high-energy, full-throttle tempo really lifts your mood! The unique lyrics are memorable too, such as expressing charms that go beyond “cute” using the alphabet.

Thanks to its brisk rhythm and fun vibe, it’s a song everyone can sing together to get pumped up.

A Little Love SongMONGOL80011rank/position

A Little Love Song

There must be plenty of people who’ve already decided, “If I go to karaoke, I’m definitely singing this.” It’s a signature song by MONGOL800, a rock band from Okinawa.

Included on their 2001 album MESSAGE, it wasn’t even released as a single, yet it became the first indie track in history to sell over 2.8 million copies.

Its appeal lies in the driving rock sound and straightforward lyrics that honestly express feelings for someone special.

In 2019, a film inspired by the song was released, and it continues to be loved across generations.

With a relatively low key and a simple melody, it’s an easy pick even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.

If everyone belts out the chorus together, it’s sure to make any drinking party even more lively!

Hamtaro Tottoko SongHamuchanzu12rank/position

[Anime] 'Hamtaro Tottoko Uta' (Sung by: Ham-Chans) [Official] Hamtaro opening theme song, Part 1

Did you know that the opening song of the anime Hamtaro, a character hugely popular with children, has been attracting attention at music events frequented by adults? It all started at an outdoor festival in 2017.

When the song was played at a DJ event focused on anime and video game music, a few people began running around in a circle, which became a hot topic and has since been adopted at various events.

Nowadays it’s a staple at meat festivals, with mysterious call-and-response chants—absent from the original lyrics—added for extra excitement! Known as the “Hamtaro Call,” it’s even gained popularity overseas.

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yuri

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Wake Me UpAvicii13rank/position

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Video)

A massive hit gifted to the world in 2013 by Avicii, Sweden’s globally renowned music producer and DJ.

While rooted in EDM-style sound design, it also features light acoustic guitar backing, making it a wonderful classic brimming with a folk-like, songful spirit.

Released as the lead single from his debut album “True,” it became a hit across many countries.

Combined with American soul singer Aloe Blacc’s expansive, soulful vocals, it’s a track loved across generations.

This piece resonates with the heart, the kind of song you’ll want to listen to alongside memories of youth and summer.

It’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for karaoke and parties.

SaudadePorunogurafiti14rank/position

Pornograffitti “Saudade” MUSIC VIDEO

One of Porno Graffitti’s signature songs, this classic captures the pain of heartbreak and a sense of nostalgia within a Latin-style melody.

“Saudade” is a Portuguese word that means “longing or nostalgia for something lost.” The overall vocal range is surprisingly narrow, from B3 to G#4.

However, the key modulates in the final chorus and the pitch rises, and the tempo is fast, so be careful not to fall behind the rhythm.

Did you know that when vocalist Okano sings, he raises his eyebrows? I definitely recommend copying this! Especially for high notes, lifting your eyebrows makes it easier to hit the pitch and produce a solid tone.

If you raise your eyebrows right when the melody changes, it helps you land the notes smoothly, so I highly recommend it!

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Kubota Mami

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