RAG MusicKARAOKE
Lovely karaoke song

A Showa-era duet song. A timeless karaoke/snack-bar classic!

Do you like duet songs?

Some of you may have sung together with friends or even other customers at karaoke or in a snack bar.

Singing your favorite song solo is certainly fun, but duet songs—where two people weave harmonies—have a unique charm all their own.

In this article, we’ve gathered classic Showa-era duet songs that just about everyone has heard at least once.

Even if you’ve never tried a duet, take this chance to learn one and try singing it with a friend.

Duet songs of nostalgic hits (’71–’80)

Ghost RockGō Hiromi, Kigeki Kirin

Hiromi Go & Kiki Kirin – Ghost Rock (1977)
Ghost RockGō Hiromi, Kigeki Kirin

A humorous song that depicts a heartwarming love story through the extraordinary presence of a ghost.

Released in September 1977, it was also used as the theme song for TBS’s Wednesday Theater series “Mu.” The unique personalities of Hiromi Go and Kiki Kirin blend exquisitely, and with its lively rhythm and comical lyrics, it’s a tune everyone will find themselves humming.

When the two performed it together again after 36 years, Kiki Kirin reportedly donned her costume from back then and said, “I felt like I’d gone back to those days.” Perfect for Halloween, of course, but also for any upbeat party time—bound to liven up a snack bar or karaoke box!

A heart that says “my dear, my dear.”Kobayashi Akira / Asaoka Ruriko

Beloved, Beloved Heart / Akira Kobayashi & Ruriko Asaoka (Song) Hiroshi Take
A heart that says “my dear, my dear.”Kobayashi Akira / Asaoka Ruriko

The duet song “Itoshi Itoshi to Iu Kokoro” by Akira Kobayashi and Ruriko Asaoka portrays the heart of a woman who has parted from the one she loves.

While most duets feature back-and-forth exchanges between a man and a woman or depict each person’s inner feelings, this track focuses solely on the woman.

It might seem challenging for a man to sing about a woman’s feelings, but Kobayashi’s part is basically the chorus, so in practice it isn’t difficult.

Be sure to give it a listen.

wheat fieldOyonēzu

Among the many duet songs, “Mugibatake” (“Wheat Field”) has a comical vibe.

The lyrics tell of love budding between a young man and woman in the countryside, eventually leading to marriage, making it perfect as a duet for a young rural couple.

With this duet, I think you can sing without feeling shy.

Duet songs from the nostalgic era (’81–’90)

Dawn of PartingIshihara Yūjirō / Yashiro Aki

Dawn of Parting: The original song by Yujiro Ishihara and Aki Yashiro. The original. Please listen to the genuine brilliance that isn’t a cover. “You devoted yourself to me as if your life depended on it.” “You loved me more than anyone.”
Dawn of PartingIshihara Yūjirō / Yashiro Aki

“Dawn of Parting,” released in 1974.

This song is tenderly sung by two powerhouse Showa-era vocalists, Yujiro Ishihara and Aki Yashiro.

The lyrics are short and the melody is easy to remember, so with a bit of practice you’ll be able to sing it right away! Since it’s a song about mature love, enjoy its world together with the person you sing it with.

This song might even be the spark that brings your hearts much closer.

Both hands to the starry skyShimakura Chiyoko / Moriya Hiroshi

Hands Raised to the Starry Sky — Chiyoko Shimakura; original song by Hiroshi Moriya
Both hands to the starry skyShimakura Chiyoko / Moriya Hiroshi

The duet song “Hoshizora ni Ryōte o” by Hiroshi Moriya—known for his sweet yet astringent vocals—and Chiyoko Shimakura—who gained popularity for her charming voice—stands out.

While duet songs in enka and mood kayō often tend to be adult-oriented, depicting sultry romances or messy affairs, this piece is crafted as a pure love song.

The vocal difficulty is low and the melody is catchy, so be sure to try singing it at karaoke or in a snack bar.

Before winter comeskami fuusen

Paper Balloon — Before Winter Comes
Before winter comeskami fuusen

It’s a classic that weaves a bittersweet love story evoking the arrival of winter.

The harmonies of Kamifūsen beautifully paint the scenery of an autumn twilight.

Released in November 1977, the song became a big hit, selling 450,000 copies.

It reached No.

4 on the weekly Oricon chart and ranked No.

27 on the 1978 year-end chart.

Its appeal lies in the moving lyrics that trace feelings for a former lover alongside the changing seasons.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing together with someone special at karaoke or in a cozy bar.

A heartwarming duet perfect for long autumn nights.

In conclusion

We introduced some classic duet songs from the Showa era.

Did you find a track that caught your interest? People often go to karaoke for farewell/welcome parties and reunions regardless of age, so it’s reassuring to have the standards down.

A male-female duet might feel a bit embarrassing, but go for it and sing it with plenty of mood!