The Rise of 'Hakatanoshio' Sound Logo: A New Karaoke Trend for All Ages

The iconic sound logo of 'Hakatanoshio' has reached the number one spot in the JOYSOUND weekly karaoke rankings, a remarkable achievement in the world of karaoke that underscores a significant cultural shift. Developed by XING Inc., a subsidiary of the USEN & U-NEXT GROUP, JOYSOUND has been a pioneer in the karaoke business for over 30 years, now boasting an extensive library of more than 440,000 songs. The ascent of this sound logo to the top of the rankings is a first for the company, showcasing the shifting preferences of karaoke enthusiasts across generations.

Karaoke Scoring Features Ignite Interest

One of the key factors behind the sound logo's stunning rise is JOYSOUND's scoring function, which enables users to compete against others nationwide. The average score for 'Hakatanoshio' in June was 61.360 points, highlighting its challenging nature. Achieving a score above 70 is seen as extremely difficult, making it a unique experience compared to conventional songs where vocal techniques can be utilized to secure higher points. Given its only 3-second duration, the song demands precise pitch control and quick vocal agility, which creates a compelling game-like atmosphere that encourages repeated attempts. This combination of familiarity and entertainment, thanks to years of advertising exposure, has birthed a novel way to enjoy karaoke.

A Song for All Generations

Another notable aspect of the 'Hakatanoshio' phenomenon is its widespread appeal. Data from JOYSOUND reveals that the song is sung by a diverse demographic, cutting across gender and age lines. While 58% of the singers are male, there is a healthy balance among genders, and the age range spans from teenagers to seniors in their 60s. Unlike typical hit songs that cater to specific artist profiles or genres, the enduring familiarity of 'Hakatanoshio' makes it a versatile choice for karaoke—something that anyone can sing, creating a sense of community across different age groups.

Social Media Fueling the Trend

The relationship between this sound logo and social media has greatly amplified its popularity. Following its release in December, images of selection histories filled with 'Hakatanoshio' flooded platforms, capturing users' attention. The unexpected emergence of a mere 3-second sound logo ranking among chart-toppers has sparked excitement on social media feeds, fueling discussions and sharing of experiences.

A New Award Initiative for Sound Logos

The success of 'Hakatanoshio' is set against the backdrop of JOYSOUND's innovative project, the 'Sound Logo Karaoke Award', which encourages companies to enter their own sound logos into the karaoke arena. This initiative has sparked interest among businesses seeking to engage the public in new interactive ways. The award’s second edition, the 'Sound Logo Karaoke Award 2027', is already in the works, inviting companies until August 31 to submit their entries. This initiative aims to allow businesses to share their sound logos nationwide, transforming them into enjoyable karaoke experiences for users.

Overview of the Sound Logo Karaoke Award 2027

- Entry Period: June 1, 2026 - August 31, 2026
- Karaoke Distribution: Starting June 1, 2026, until November 30, 2026
- Award Ceremony: February 2027 in a Tokyo venue (exact details to be revealed by late September)

For businesses interested in this endeavor, detailed participation requirements can be found on the award's official website. This initiative not only promises to bring new sound logos into the karaoke spotlight but also fosters an inclusive culture where everyone can enjoy making music together.