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Lovely karaoke song

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! (431–440)

Boogie on a boring nightHamada Maron

Marun Hamada “Boogie on a Boring Night” MV
Boogie on a boring nightHamada Maron

Maron Hamada is a female singer-songwriter whose decadent jazz vibe has earned strong praise from hardcore music aficionados.

She’s an artist who has consistently delivered timeworn, unadorned jazz for many years.

Among her works, the one I especially recommend is “Boogie for a Boring Night.” It’s a gem that blends early-Showa-era musical sensibilities with the stylish jazz reminiscent of EGO-WRAPPIN’.

With its relatively narrow vocal range and a singing style rooted in Showa-era pop, it’s an especially singable track for men in their 50s and older.

Just loveWatanabe Machiko

Many of us have probably experienced heartbreak.

Sometimes the shock can even make you feel like you’ve lost the will to live.

The song ‘Takaga Koi’ portrays a woman who finds herself in that very situation.

This piece is by Machiko Watanabe, a singer-songwriter known for her expressive vocals.

Her vibrato-laden voice resonates to the depths of the listener’s heart.

It’s also wonderful how the lyrics hint at the drama unfolding in the background throughout the song.

For example… for exampleWatanabe Machiko

Known as a bittersweet heartbreak song, this track showcases Machiko Watanabe’s clear, translucent vocals that beautifully capture the complex emotions left after a breakup.

Released in January 1979 as her fourth single, it reached No.

13 on the Oricon chart and earned her an appearance on that year’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

It was also included on the album “Tōku Hanarete,” and has long been cherished as one of Watanabe’s signature songs.

It’s a recommended listen when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or reflect on feelings for someone dear.

Despite its wistful mood, it features touches of funky 1970s soul-style arrangements throughout—a hallmark that has also made it popular among fans of Japanese “wamo-no” grooves.

Thank you for the birthday wishes.Watanabe Nao

Nao Watanabe live ≪Thank you for my birthday≫
Thank you for the birthday wishes.Watanabe Nao

Nao Watanabe’s “Thank You, Birthday,” a moving piano-and-vocal piece by the singer-songwriter, stands out.

While most birthday songs celebrate the birthdays of family, lovers, or friends, this one is sung from the perspective of the person whose birthday it is.

When you listen through to the chorus, the meaning of the title “Thank You, Birthday” will make you think, “Ah, that’s what it means.” It’s a touching song that expresses gratitude to one’s father and mother for giving birth and raising them on their own birthday.

I’m home!Shonan no Kaze

Shonan no Kaze “I’m Home!” Lyric Video (Short ver.)
I'm home!Shonan no Kaze

Let me introduce a heartwarming message song that truly resonates.

Released by Shonan no Kaze on February 23, 2020, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Papa ga Mo Ichido Koi wo Shita” (My Dad Fell in Love Again).

Centered on deep love for family and loved ones, it carefully portrays the feelings contained in the word “I’m home,” exchanged each time someone returns home.

The lyrics, which evoke life’s joys, struggles, and hopes, remind us of the importance of family.

It’s perfect for expressing gratitude to your dad.

Twilight RomanceYubara Masayuki

Masayuki Yuhara “Twilight Romance” Music Video
Twilight RomanceYubara Masayuki

Masayuki Yuhara is a distinguished figure who has long been active in the music world while continuing to work as a multi-talented performer in various fields.

His 60th-anniversary single, “Tasogare Roman,” is a truly impassioned work packed with Yuhara’s own sense of romance.

Centered on the gentle moments of love at dusk, the lyrics convey a desire to reconsider what is truly important in life.

Released in March 2024, this masterpiece serves as a mirror reflecting Yuhara’s journey to date.

It’s a song I hope people of all generations will listen to.

Introducing songs starting with “Ta” from popular J-POP! (441–450)

birthdayKumaki Anri

Anri Kumaki is a singer-songwriter who has worked on numerous tie-in projects for dramas and films.

She’s known for her gentle, enveloping vocals.

Among her songs, the one that’s perfect for celebrations is “Birthday.” Its piano-centered, dramatic band sound resonates deeply.

The lyrics, which candidly express feelings for a loved one, can move you to tears.

Through her clear, transparent singing, you’ll feel both wistful and uplifted.

It’s a heartfelt song you’ll want to give to someone who’s been important to you—family, friends, or a romantic partner.