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Introducing popular J-pop songs that start with “Ta”!

Have you heard of shiritori karaoke, where you connect songs by using the last letter of the previous song’s title? Surprisingly, it can get pretty exciting—sometimes you can’t think of any songs, or there aren’t as many singable ones as you expect.

So this time, I’ll introduce a bunch of Japanese songs that start with “ta.” I’ve picked popular J-POP tracks so you can use them both for karaoke and for playing shiritori using only song titles.

Please use this as a reference, and if there’s a song you’d like to try singing, go for it!

Introducing songs starting with “Ta” from popular J-POP! (371–380)

Birthday Cha-Cha-ChaSakushi: Mine Akira / Sakkyoku: Uiruherumu

This song was featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in 1972, and it’s still sung at many nursery schools and kindergartens today.

Many adults have probably heard it, too.

Originally, it’s a Japanese cover of an Italian children’s song with lyrics about throwing a grand musical performance for a birthday, making it a perfect, festive choice for birthday parties or concerts.

It’s adorable sung as-is, but adding choreography and performing it at a birthday party would make it even more exciting!

birthdayLyrics: Toshio Shimizu ・ Composition: Yuko Onuma

Birthday (with lyrics) / Lyrics by Toshio Shimizu, Music by Yuko Konuma / Events • Birthday / Self-accompanied singing • Singing with instrument • Piano accompaniment / Children's Songs 200 / For teachers / For educators
birthday Composer: Toshio Shimizu ・ Lyricist: Yuko Onuma

This song, “Tanjoubi” (Birthday), is a very short birthday tune.

Even with a piano intro, it’s only about 20 seconds long, so it could be perfect for birthday parties in infant classes.

Its bouncy rhythm and simple lyrics make it easy for children to learn.

Even 0- and 1-year-olds can enjoy the music in their own way by bouncing to the beat or swaying their bodies.

Let’s all sing together and savor the festive atmosphere of celebrating a birthday.

The piano accompaniment is simple too, so even those who aren’t confident can manage it!

dandelionSakushi: Kadokura Satoshi / Sakkyoku: Horikoshi Kiyoshi

Dandelion [children’s song/choral piece] Lyrics: Satoshi Kadokura / Music: Kiyoshi Horikoshi — includes harmonies ♪
dandelionSakushi: Kadokura Satoshi / Sakkyoku: Horikoshi Kiyoshi

Here is a song themed around the dandelion, a flower that heralds the arrival of spring.

Its lyrics are striking, overlaying the sight of the dandelion blooming robustly even in harsh conditions with people’s strength to live and their hopes.

Since its release in 1976, it has spread nationwide through the singing movement and has also been cherished as a labor struggle song.

In 2000 and 2002, it was included in elementary school music textbooks, becoming established as a choral piece featured in educational settings.

The melody, gentle yet powerful, is sure to resonate with many listeners.

It’s a recommended song when you want to feel the courage to face difficulties and the bonds between people.

Tazawako Love SongYasuda Teiji

Teiji Yasuda is a late-blooming enka singer who made his debut at the age of 75.

His much-anticipated debut single, “Tazawako Koiuta,” drew attention in the enka scene of his home prefecture, Akita.

The Tazawa Lake featured in this work is located in Akita, where Yasuda is from, and the song warmly portrays sentiments for his hometown.

Its orthodox melody pairs exquisitely with Yasuda’s warm vocals.

If you’re looking for a new favorite enka newcomer, be sure to check him out.

TABOOKōda Kumi

Koda Kumi - 'TABOO' ~ 20th Year Special Full Ver.
TABOOKōda Kumi

Released in 2008, Kumi Koda’s 41st single, “TABOO,” is a danceable track that’s easy to sing at karaoke.

The lyrics are packed with a provocative message about breaking taboos, leaving a strong impression and embodying Koda’s signature “sexy-cool” style.

While the song touches on themes like forbidden love and secret romance, it isn’t a tragic love story; it also conveys an empowering message.

Marked by Kumi Koda’s powerful vibrato, this is a great song to try at karaoke.

bamboo-copterKasamura Tōta

It’s a song steeped in deep emotions and loneliness.

A Vocaloid track by Toa Kasamura, released in May 2024.

It’s filled with feelings of isolation, parting, and the wish to meet again.

When you listen, a slow ache spreads through your heart—yet that very warmth gently soothes it.

The official MV is available on YouTube.

It’s a piece that shines with the delicate expression characteristic of Kasamura, who also provides songs for Project Sekai.

When you’re aching to see someone, this work will be there to stay close to your feelings.

Traveling WomanMitsuoka Hiroshi

Hiro Mitsuoka “Tabi no Hito” MUSIC VIDEO
Traveling WomanMitsuoka Hiroshi

Released on March 6, 2024, this work centers on Isao Saito’s masterful guitar, with Mitsuoka’s deeply wistful vocals resonating in the heart.

Set to an emotive soundscape, it tells the story of a woman who, in search of a lost lover, follows the changing seasons as she walks a solitary road.

The tender tones and heartrending melody carry vocals that gently permeate the depths of each listener’s heart.

Be sure to savor it as you listen.