Recommended Japanese pop songs for karaoke for men in their 30s

A third of pure-hearted feelingsSIAM SHADE

A third of pure-hearted feelings

Although they disbanded once in 2002, SHIAM SHADE has captivated fans with several temporary reunions.

This signature song of theirs is widely known as the ending theme for the TV anime Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story.

Its structure is very straightforward: the chorus comes first, followed by verse A and verse B, building excitement.

The beginning of verse A hits the song’s lowest note, D#3, which might be a bit low even for male singers.

Be careful not to let your voice get muffled in this part.

Another challenging aspect of the song is the rhythm.

In the chorus, if you sing it in a typical 4/4 feel, it won’t lock in with the backing drums and will sound flat.

Try singing it with a driving triplet feel instead—you’ll sound much cooler! It may be difficult until you get used to it, but definitely give it a try.

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Kubota Mami

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Hold me, señoritaYamashita Tomohisa

Tomohisa Yamashita (Yamashita Tomohisa) Daite Señorita [2014 version]

Tomohisa Yamashita, known by his nickname Yamapi, was a member of the idol group NEWS from 2003 to 2011.

In 2006, Yamapi released his long-awaited debut solo single, Daite Señorita, which was used as the theme song for the TBS drama Kurosagi.

The song’s intro is cool and memorable.

As an idol song, its vocal range is relatively narrow, making it easy to sing even for those who aren’t confident with high notes.

The opening of the first verse is quite low, so it may be tricky to hit the pitches, but if you sing carefully, you’ll be fine.

There’s also a simple choreography in the chorus, so try enjoying it while keeping the rhythm.

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Kubota Mami

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In the Morning of DeterminationAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Ketsui no Asa ni' Music Video (Theme song of the film 'Brave Story')

This song resonates with lyrics full of kindness and empathy.

Without hiding its own naivety, it gently conveys the desire to live life in one’s own way, carried by a warm, soothing melody.

It tenderly embraces everyday doubts and inner conflicts, as well as the ache of not being able to speak one’s true feelings, resulting in a track that stands by every listener.

Released by Aqua Timez in July 2006, it drew attention as the theme song for the animated film Brave Story.

It was also used in Sapporo Beer’s New Year Sports Special: Hakone Ekiden commercial, and has been loved by many.

This is a song you’ll want to hear when your heart is wavering or when you’re facing an important decision.

It’s also easy to follow the melody for karaoke, allowing you to sing it with heartfelt emotion.

Beyond a thousand nightsAqua Timez

Aqua Timez 'Beyond a Thousand Nights' Music Video (Theme song of the movie 'BLEACH: Memories of Nobody')

When people talk about iconic medium-tempo ballads from the 2000s, I’m sure many in their mid to late 30s immediately think of this song.

“Sen no Yoru wo Koete” is Aqua Timez’s second single overall, and it was also used as the theme song for the anime film BLEACH: Memories of Nobody.

With its arrangement incorporating strings, it’s a classic that truly evokes the 2000s, yet its clear melodic lines and straightforward structure make it very singable at karaoke.

While the pitch isn’t particularly high, there are some fairly low notes and the overall range is relatively wide, so try to be mindful of delivering it with good dynamic contrast.

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KOH-1

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sailing dayBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN「sailing day」

In fact, BUMP OF CHICKEN’s very first anime tie-in song was “sailing day.” Released in 2003 as a double A-side single together with “Lost Man,” it’s a classic noted for its guitar sound and melodies that deliver that distinctly BUMP-like, heart-searing sense of wistful speed.

Many people now in their 30s probably fire up this song at karaoke with friends of the same generation when it’s time to get the party going.

Looking at the melody, the overall range is relatively wide: in true Fujiwara style, it showcases calm low tones in the first half and then opens up into soaring highs in the chorus.

Those who are used to singing should handle it without trouble.

If your voice is on the lower side, adjusting the key will make it perfectly manageable.

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A Tiny Bit of CourageFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 'A Tiny Bit of Courage'

Released in 2007, “Chippoke na Yuuki” was a milestone song for FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, achieving their then-highest position of No.

8 on the Oricon chart.

Many people in their 30s will fondly remember Tomohiro Waki being featured on the cover and in the music video, and for those who’ve spent a fair number of years in the working world, the lyrics that unexpectedly stir the heart are sure to make you want to belt it out at karaoke.

True to FUNKY MONKEY BABYS’ straightforward melodies, there’s nothing particularly difficult, but the fast sections that incorporate rap-like vocals typical of 2000s J-pop can be sung smoothly if you memorize the lyrics well beforehand.

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confessionFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Confession”

There must be plenty of people in their thirties today who can’t help but squint with nostalgia at the sight of Eiichiro Funakoshi’s jacket with an umbrella.

“Kokuhaku” (Confession) is a hit song released in 2008, a masterpiece that belts out incredibly straightforward, honest lyrics with all its might.

True to their style, the lyrics are packed with words and delivered at a slightly rapid pace, but it’s quintessential 2000s J‑POP, and for those who were in their teens to twenties back then and are now in their thirties, it likely feels like the melody of their youth—something they can sing with ease.

Just a heads-up: the final chorus modulates up by a half step!

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KOH-1

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