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.
- [Karaoke] Duet songs for men and women. A roundup of popular and classic tracks.
- A love song you can sing as a duet. From Showa-era kayōkyoku to the latest J-pop!
- [Karaoke] Duet Song Rankings [2026]
- [Songs from the Showa Era] Introducing classic tracks that are easy to sing at karaoke.
- Compilation of enka duet songs. Introducing popular kayōkyoku hits as well!
- When you can’t decide what to sing at karaoke: Easy-to-sing classic hits from the Showa era
- [Duet Songs] A roundup of recommended tracks perfect for two women to sing together!
- [Harmony Songs for Duets] Songs that feel great to harmonize
- A roundup of duet songs sung by men—classic tracks renowned for their compelling harmonies and call-and-response.
- [Revisited] A roundup of popular and classic Showa-era songs that are trending now [2026]
- Cool songs from the Showa era. Masterpieces from Showa that shine with sensuality, passion, and rugged charm.
- 【2026】A Collection of Masterpieces: Enka and Kayōkyoku Duets by Two Women
- Recommended love songs for people in their 90s: A collection of classic Shōwa-era romance songs
Duet songs of nostalgic hits (’71–’80)
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!
Osaka RhapsodyUminara Senri · Mari
When you think of Senri and Mari Uminara’s signature songs, many people probably picture this duet.
Released in February 1976, this classic depicts the sweet moments of lovers set against the city of Osaka.
While landmarks like Midosuji and Dotonbori appear, the song is notable for conveying the couple’s emotions more than offering detailed scenery.
The performance by the Meiji University Mandolin Club lends it a unique atmosphere.
It’s a number you’ll want to sing with someone special at karaoke or in a snack bar, and it’s sure to resonate even with those who don’t know Osaka.
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.
A Nighttime EncounterIshihara Yūjirō / Yashiro Aki
A duet song by Yujiro Ishihara and Aki Yashiro.
Yujiro Ishihara’s low, gentle voice captivated many women.
It’s a song you can sing with full mood, and the chorus really soars, so both the singer and the listeners will likely feel a sense of nostalgia.
It lifts your spirits—definitely a song worth remembering.
Listen to it over and over until you’ve learned it, and be sure to perform it confidently in front of everyone!
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.
