RAG MusicKARAOKE
Lovely karaoke song

[2026] Japanese karaoke songs to sing at year’s end: a roundup of popular hits and classics

Have you decided what to sing at karaoke during the year-end party season? Unlike your usual karaoke sessions, it can be tricky to pick songs for company parties or after-parties with colleagues.

You want to liven things up without standing out too much, and you’d prefer songs everyone knows, but not ones that feel too safe—many people struggle with this balance.

In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of recommended songs that are easy to sing at year-end karaoke gatherings and can warm up the atmosphere.

From nostalgic classics to trending hits, you’re sure to find at least one track you’ll want to add to your repertoire!

[2026] Japanese Karaoke Songs to Sing at Year’s End: Popular Hits and Classics (41–50)

Ode to JoyLudwig van Beethoven

The Ninth for Ten Thousand People: Ode to Joy 2009 (Osaka-jō Hall) 1/3
Ode to JoyLudwig van Beethoven

Isn’t Beethoven’s Symphony No.

9, the “Ode to Joy,” a piece that everyone has heard? This famous “Ode to Joy” has been covered and arranged by many artists.

Since it’s a tune anyone can recognize, why not choose it at karaoke at the end of the year to savor a sense of joy as you wrap up the year?

[2026] Japanese karaoke songs to sing at year’s end: A roundup of popular hits and classics (51–60)

HOWLAyumu Imazu

Ayumu Imazu – HOWL [Music Video]
HOWLAyumu Imazu

A dance number by Ayumu Imazu with a exhilarating sense of speed that feels like tearing through the city at night.

Released in July 2025, the track was written specifically as the opening theme for the TV anime “Karaoke Iko!” It captures the uniquely adolescent swing of emotions—frustration with an uncooperative reality and longing for a more grown-up world—set against a cool track.

I think it’s perfect as background music for a drive!

Last lookSuda Keina

Keina Suda – Last Look (Music Video)
Last lookSuda Keina

Unless you break down the wall called common sense, you’ll never meet your true self.

This is a fast-paced rock number that sings of the sense of omnipotence that arrives at the end of such inner conflict.

The track was released in July 2025 as the opening theme for the second rebroadcast of the TV anime Assassination Classroom.

The explosive energy surging from within, conveyed by the song, seems to liberate the listener’s heart as well.

It’s sure to resonate with everyone who wants to surpass who they are now and take a bold new step forward.

Happy Endingback number

back number – “Happy End” Music Video
Happy Endingback number

Back Number’s 16th single, “Happy End.” It’s a love song themed around parting, and its heartrending lyrics evoke a range of emotions.

With a relaxed tempo and a key that suits the average male voice, it should be easy to sing with poise.

Be sure to showcase your beautiful voice to many people with “Happy End”!

January(yoru to) SAMPO

(Yoru to) SAMPO is a five-piece rock band attracting attention, having won the Grand Prix at the eo Music Try 20/21 contest, all while its members balance full-time jobs with their musical activities.

Their track “January,” released on July 12, 2020, stands out with its straightforward rock ensemble and breezy melody.

The lyrics depict tidying up what’s unnecessary as the year turns, something many who want to make a fresh start in the New Year can relate to.

It’s a nostalgic pop tune that fills you with a positive feeling as the year begins.

All-Night RadioAdo

Ado, a singer who started as a utaite and made her major debut in her teens, has been gaining attention both in Japan and abroad.

Her 21st digital-only single, “All Night Radio,” was written as the theme song for the live-streamed stage drama event ‘Ano Yoru de Aetara.’ Its urban ensemble, highlighted by catchy guitar cutting, brings a refreshing vibe that can even brighten the atmosphere at karaoke.

It’s a light, lively pop tune that will add color to New Year’s Eve in these times filled with somber news.

SPECIALZKing Gnu

King Gnu is a four-piece rock band that changed its name from Srv.Vinci in 2017.

Their genre-defying sound, reflecting their broad musical background, has taken the J-pop scene by storm.

Their 7th single, “SPECIALZ,” was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen: Shibuya Incident.

With its dark ensemble and rapidly shifting song structure, it’s sure to draw attention even from those unfamiliar with the anime.

It’s a great pick for year-end events and karaoke, but since it’s quite difficult to sing, be sure to practice thoroughly before performing it in front of others.