The “Like a Dragon” series primarily plunges you into the gritty and perilous underworld of the yakuza, but it’s renowned for offering numerous diversions amidst its bustling, neon-lit urban environments.
One popular feature that continues to be a mainstay in franchises is Karaoke, which offers a fun rhythm game experience. When you need a breather from the intense storyline, you can step into a karaoke booth and let loose with your favorite tunes.
One recurring element in franchises that people love is Karaoke, a fun rhythm game where you can unwind during high-stakes plots by singing along to your heart’s delight in a karaoke booth.)
Initially showcased in “Yakuza 3,” due to director Ryosuke Horri’s passion for karaoke, the music from the karaoke feature soon emerged as a central element in every Yakuza game.
To honor the 20-year anniversary of “Like a Dragon” and the latest game launch, “Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii”, we plan to list the top memorable karaoke songs featured within the series.
This list considers songs from the entire Yakuza/Like a Dragon mainlines.
10. Kamurocho Lullaby
An Underrated Enka Gem
In the realm of Yakuza 3’s captivating karaoke mini-game, I stumbled upon a tune that was one of the very first to grace our digital stage – the enchanting “Kamurocho Lullaby.” This song, penned with an artist’s touch, paints a dreamy picture of Kamurocho, a city teeming with crime and pleasure, yet somehow still manages to cast a romantic spell.
In simpler terms, the tune “Kamurocho Lullaby” has been composed in the style of Enka, a type of traditional Japanese ballad characterized by its slow tempo and haunting melodies, accentuated by the resonant quality of the vocalist’s singing voice.
Listening to Kiryu belt out any heartfelt tune remains as fresh as ever, and the Kamurocho Lullaby is no different. As the song progresses, we can see him fully immersed in his singing, with exaggerated gestures and a deep bow at the end, putting on an unforgettable show.
This song is captivating because it was prominently used in Yakuza 2, specifically within the side story titled “The Enka Life.” In this narrative, Kiryu crosses paths with Chikamatsu, an Enka singer who is attempting to achieve success while adhering to traditional music styles.
As a dedicated gamer, I’ve got to say, Kamurocho Lullaby isn’t like the other tunes on the list, but it sure does a fantastic job of capturing the essence of a mellow Asian karaoke night.
9. Hell Stew
Kamurocho City Rock
In the latest tunes from Yakuza: Like A Dragon, there’s a track named Hell Stew that offers an edgier, eerie, and ominous take on alternative rock, portraying the act of cooking and consuming hotpots as a satanic ceremony.
As a fan, I’ve always appreciated Zhao’s soothing tones, but there’s something electrifying about hearing him deviate from his usual mellow style. In a heavy metal cover that pays homage to Seikima-II, known for their dark attire and dramatic makeup, he gets to unleash his inner rockstar and scream with wild abandon. What a thrill!
Fans liken Hell Stew to the modern-day equivalent of Judgement, and it’s quite accurate. Instead of a tune about gathering components for a communal stew, what could symbolize stronger friendships more than a song about it?
Listening to the original Japanese version, you may find that Zhao’s voice bears a striking similarity to Bakugo’s character voice from My Hero Academia.
It’s due to the fact that they are both voiced by Nobuhiko Okamoto, a highly acclaimed actor in the anime industry who has lent his voice to notable characters such as Rin from “Blue Exorcist” and Himmel from “Frieren”.
8. Like A Butterfly
Kiryu Raps!
Initially, when karaoke was incorporated into the establishment, it was predominantly the hostesses who sang popular tunes at the karaoke bars to amuse their patrons, reflecting the traditional customs of Japanese hostess clubs.
Back in Yakuza 6, I came across the electrifying J-Rock tune “Like A Butterfly” – a track that Saki Akai and Riona Ichijo belted out as hostesses. It’s a high-energy, intense number that gets my adrenaline pumping every time I hear it!
In the track, Kiryu dons quirky, futuristic eyewear and delivers comedic backup singing and rapping in English – a surprising deviation from his typically serious persona as the Dragon of Dojima.
In subsequent games, the character of Like A Butterfly has been a common element, and although the addition of rap-like interjections may initially seem out of place, it doesn’t detract from the powerful vocal performances that define the female characters in this series.
7. The Goro Pirates Theme
The Real Treasure Was Friendship All Along
As a gaming enthusiast, diving into the world of Pirate Yakuza was like stepping onto a fresh stage. Not only did it introduce an array of fresh faces, but also added some catchy tunes to Majima’s repertoire for his karaoke performances!
In a fun, emotional style reminiscent of rock music, “The Goro Pirates Theme” pumps adrenaline as Majima and his band of pirates stride towards an unknown enemy in the accompanying video.
The theme song for the main menu and the ending credits isn’t just used in the game, but it’s also present within the game’s narrative. In fact, you can listen to Majima and his crew singing this song as a sea shanty while they navigate through the Hawaiian waters on their voyage.
While I’d rather avoid delving into the ongoing debate about Subtitles versus Dubbing, there’s no denying that Matt Mercer’s rendition of Majima in the English dub is remarkably appealing to my ears, outshining Hidenari Ugaki’s iconic performance as the eccentric character, despite his well-known portrayal.
6. The Future I Dreamed Of
Quintessentially Ichiban
In numerous aspects, Ichiban Kasuga steps into Kiryu’s shoes effectively as the leading character of the Like A Dragon series, embodying a transformation in how RGG Studios portray their heroic figures from stoic and quiet to lively and courageous.
In my opinion, Ichiban’s song, titled “The Future I Dreamed Of,” perfectly embodies the atmosphere of Yakuza: Like A Dragon, with a feel reminiscent of anime endings that suitably complement an RPG game in the style of Dragon Quest.
In the vision of the future I depicted, Ichiban emerges as a resilient character who unwaveringly adheres to his beliefs and nurtures aspirations for a better tomorrow, even amidst the persistent hardships he has faced throughout his life. Despite beginning with nothing and being branded as a wasted ex-convict at 40, Ichiban managed to carve out a reputation for himself against all odds.
In one of the series’ most uplifting and optimistic tunes, “The Future I Dreamed Of” carries a powerful message encouraging you to stay strong and persevere no matter what life throws at you.
5. Today Is A Diamond
A Happy Song With Depressing Lyrics
Underneath its lively and vibrant 1970s-pop-rock rhythm, “Today Is A Diamond” appears to be a cheerful song at first listen, but upon closer examination, it seems to subtly tell the story of a parent attempting to rouse a lethargic child from a deep slumber.
If you delve into the words and understand the song’s background, “Today Is A Diamond” carries some unexpectedly melancholic and gloomy verses.
In the game Yakuza 6, this tune serves as a mask for protagonist Kiryu’s deep distress and despair, as he feigns cheerfulness upon discovering that his adopted daughter Haruka has fallen into a coma following a violent altercation with the yakuza.
The difference between the song’s mood and its lyrics is quite disturbing, as Kiryu, who typically doesn’t show much emotion, can be seen smiling and expressing feelings in a track that contains lyrics hinting at the possibility that Kiryu might take his own life if Haruka doesn’t regain consciousness. This is emphasized by the last two lines in the karaoke version: “You won’t wake up/I guess I’ll sleep too…
Today’s tune, “Diamonds,” carries poignant words about mortality, yet it remains an exceptionally delightful song that has managed to secure a place among the top five.
4. Machine Gun Kiss
Firing Off A Billion Kisses
Machine Gun Kiss” is a fiery rock tune that expresses intense affection for a loved one through an imagined barrage of kisses, supported by potent and forceful power chords, complete with a bold and spirited guitar solo in the extended edition.
As a dedicated fan, just like many others, I’ve enjoyed the various renditions of “Machine Gun Kiss” at the karaoke bars across the Yakuza series. In Yakuza 5, both Kiryu and Shinada gave it a go, but in Yakuza 7, it was Adachi who truly stole the show with his version, aptly named “Police Spec.” I have to say, of all the singers, Adachi’s performance stands out as the finest.
In a different phrasing, both Kiryu’s voice actor, Takaya Kuroda, and Adachi’s voice actor, Akio Otsuka (renowned for voicing Solid Snake from Metal Gear and All For One in My Hero Academia), deliver outstanding performances in this song, with Otsuka adding his improvisations and powerful belting to truly make the song shine.
3. 24-Hour Cinderella
Majima Is Forever Youthful
Among Majima’s top tunes, “24-Hour Cinderella” stands out as his signature song, primarily due to the fact that it perfectly encapsulates the essence of Majima being an ’80s pop idol, performing daring acrobatics on roller skates – a role that fits him like a glove.
In the storylines of “Infinite Wealth” and “Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii”, it’s worth noting that Majima is portrayed as being in his sixties. Despite this, he continues to showcase the boundless energy that has been a defining characteristic of him since his initial appearance in the games.
In the game “Yakuza 0”, a character named 24-Hour Cinderella was initially introduced, and she reappears in “Pirate Yakuza”. Interestingly, Matt Mercer provides the English dub for this song, which gives Majima an unexpectedly youthful tone. It’s as if he’s singing from the depths of his heart, reminiscing about his younger days.
In addition, it’s worth noting that this tune stands out because Majima performs a genuine singing in it, rather than his usual antics, which involve shouting and nonsensical rambling, as one might expect from him given his eccentric character.
2. Judgement -Shinpan-
We Are Bad Boys
Distinct from the spin-off series featuring Takayuki Yagami, “Judgement -Shinpan-” is an engaging rock tune characterized by impressive vocals and energetic beats.
Initially featured in “Yakuza 0” and performed by Kiryu and Nishikiyama, the song “Judgement -Shinpan-” is intentionally cheesy and brings to mind the rock music of the 1980s. It portrays two comrades donning leather jackets and headbands taking on a corrupt society.
Ever since the rift between them in “Yakuza 0” and the subsequent feud in “Yakuza 1/Kiwami”, Kiryu has refrained from singing his favorite song for many years, which is unfortunate given that it is known to be his preferred tune.
It wasn’t until Kiryu encountered Ichiban that he regarded him as a brother. This change in feelings occurred after the incidents in Yakuza: Like A Dragon and Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth.
Interestingly enough, Nishikiyama and Ichiban are voiced by the same Japanese actor, Kazuhiro Nakaya. It’s as if fate had Ichiban step into the shoes that Nishikiyama left behind, had he stayed on his original course.
The modern interpretation of “Judgement” by Infinite Wealth stirs once more the deep-seated fraternal ardor that Kiryu experienced years ago, and even with aging and the debilitating effects of cancer, it’s heartening to witness him reexperience the most vibrant aspects of his youth.
1. Bakamitai
I Sing For You…
As a gamer, I can’t deny that “Bakamitai” has become an unforgettable melody of this gaming franchise. It truly skyrocketed in popularity when it turned into a viral sensation during the pandemic back in 2020, leaving its mark on the gaming community ever since.
This tune has undergone numerous remixes, transforming it into various deepfake meme styles, eventually leading to the creation of collages featuring many fictional characters, all mimicking the lyrics of “Bakamitai” in a combined chorus.
Initially introduced in Yakuza 5, the character and song “Bakamitai” are predominantly linked to Yakuza 0. Translated as “I’ve Been A Fool,” this melodramatic ballad about heartbreak surprisingly complements the intense crime drama found in Like a Dragon.
Beyond its fame as a popular meme, Bakamitai actually offers a poignant, melancholic tune that revolves around heartache. The lyrics express remorse over past mistakes and an enduring yearning for the person who was once cherished.
Bakamitai is a sad song about breakups. The singer regrets their actions but still misses the one they love.
The song is significant in a way that touches the hearts of those who appreciate its deep meaning, while still being entertaining for those who see it as a viral sensation.
Back in the day, Bakamitai became incredibly famous, and years later, RGG Studios chose to create a spiritual sequel to that hit tune called Infinite Wealth – more specifically, it’s known as Baka Darou, or colloquially, Bakamitai 2.0 by fans.
Although Baka Darou may not share Bakamitai’s renowned reputation, it still maintains the corny charm typically found in romantic karaoke tunes. The song packs an emotional punch when you consider its self-effacing verses that explore themes of missed chances and past loves.
Karaoke has a special, touching, and personal quality about it, and among all the songs in the Like a Dragon series, ‘Bakamitai’ stands out as the most iconic.”
By using simpler words and a more conversational tone, the sentence is easier to understand and sounds more natural.
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2025-03-19 18:11