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Challenge! A roundup of easy-to-sing songs by Hikaru Utada

Hikaru Utada is a female singer-songwriter who has been active since her teens.

Back then, it was rare for teenage artists to release songs incorporating R&B, and she had a major impact on the Japanese music scene.

This time, we’d like to feature some of Hikaru Utada’s songs that are especially easy to sing.

We’ll delve into which parts are technically challenging and how to approach singing them, so if you’re not confident in your singing, be sure to check this out.

Challenge! A roundup of easy-to-sing Hikaru Utada songs (11–20)

Another ChanceUtada Hikaru

The classic “Another Chance” stands out for its groove.

Evoking early ’90s R&B, the track carries an overall smooth, mature vibe.

While the vocals themselves aren’t technically difficult, its steadfast Black music–style progressions make the rhythm side a bit challenging—accents on the off-beats and such.

Listening to R&B and soul can help you get used to that kind of phrasing.

Because the vocal line sits within a narrow range, the song doesn’t demand a particular innate vocal timbre, so overall it’s relatively easy to sing.

If you find the ad-lib sections impossible to pull off, don’t hesitate to try an arrangement that differs from the original.

One Last KissUtada Hikaru

The digitally released single “One Last Kiss,” which was selected as the theme song for the animated film Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time, drew attention alongside the movie’s success and is also known as a hit number that has surpassed 100 million streams.

While the continuous falsetto high notes make pitch control and breathing challenging, the overall vocal range isn’t wide, so it should be relatively easy to sing at karaoke.

Because the melody moves quickly, be careful not to fall behind the rhythm as you sing.

A midsummer passing showerUtada Hikaru

The fifth digital-only single, “Manatsu no Tooriame” (Midsummer Showers), was chosen as the theme song for the news program NEWS ZERO.

Its clear ensemble, featuring piano and strings, soothes the heart along with its delicate vocals.

While the melody spans a wide range with frequent leaps, the understated singing style makes pitch control easier, so it’s a relatively approachable song to try.

Since a series of high notes appears in the middle section, if the key doesn’t suit you, try adjusting your device’s settings and give it a sing.

ForevermoreUtada Hikaru

Forevermore, the seventh digital-only single, was also selected as the theme song for the drama “Gomen, Aishiteru.” It’s a track marked by a tense sound where the strings resonate strikingly, and a rhythm that gradually gains power.

The blend of a light, jazz-tinged groove with expansive, soaring vocals also evokes a sense of unease.

While the distinctive melodic lines and techniques are challenging, the vocal tempo is gentle, so value each word and sing with a relaxed approach.

Wait & See ~Risk~Utada Hikaru

The 5th single “Wait & See ~Risk~,” which also made headlines for featuring American producer duo Jam & Lewis, became a million seller despite having no tie-in, symbolizing Hikaru Utada’s momentum at the time.

While the song is characterized by a wide vocal range and a complex melody, its catchy hooks make it easy to remember and fun to try at karaoke.

It’s a catchy pop tune that I highly recommend tackling in the original key if you’re confident in your high notes.

Keep Tryin’Utada Hikaru

This song carries a light, digital-infused sound and sings of hope for the future.

It gained attention when it was chosen as the CM song for KDDI’s “au LISTEN MOBILE SERVICE” and was distributed for free as a full ringtone as part of a campaign.

It lightly depicts everyday moments and the leap into new places, and the crisp, expressive vocals that convey a smile are also striking.

While the unique melodic line may seem challenging, the moderate tempo and gentle pitch range make it quite singable if you stay mindful of the lyrics and keep relaxed.

Challenge! A roundup of Utada Hikaru’s easy-to-sing songs (21–30)

ElectricityUtada Hikaru

Hikaru Utada “Electricity” Music Video
ElectricityUtada Hikaru

It’s a track with an authentic electro, dance-beat-infused sound where the rhythm and the groove of the vocals are key.

It might seem difficult when you first listen, but once you get the feel for the rhythm, you’ll be fine.

By the way, it’s easier to catch the groove in this song by counting the off-beats rather than the usual downbeats.

Instead of counting “1, 2, 3, 4,” count “1-and-2-and-3-and-4,” where the “and” is the off-beat.

If you’re not used to it, you might gradually slip out of time, but try to work through that.

Also, the vocal range isn’t that high, so you can sing it lightly without bracing yourself.

At first, it’s fine to sing everything connected and flowing.

Definitely try to catch this groove and enjoy Hikaru Utada’s song!