Male Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
Around this time of year, acoustic-style singer-songwriters start to draw attention again.
It may also have been around this period that the image of singer-songwriters as refreshing began to take hold.
Here’s a ranking of popular songs by male singer-songwriters from the 2000s.
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Male Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Song Rankings [2026] (11–20)
cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro15rank/position
This is one of Naotaro Moriyama’s signature songs, which likens cherry blossoms—blooming in splendor with the arrival of spring and eventually falling—to farewells and new beginnings in life.
Released as a single in 2003, it was used as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizaki.” The lyrics depict scenes of friends promising to meet again along a road lined with cherry trees, and saying their goodbyes while accepting the fleeting fate of petals falling, yet holding steadfast to unchanging feelings.
It is a timeless piece that we hope those facing life’s milestones—such as graduation or job transfers—will listen to.
The warm arrangement of piano and strings, together with Moriyama’s clear vocals, resonates deeply with listeners.
MelodyTamaki Kōji16rank/position
Koji Tamaki has produced numerous masterpieces as a solo artist while working in parallel with the rock band Anzenchitai.
The single I’d like to recommend, which fully captures his acoustic charm, was released in May 1996.
Selected as the ending theme for TBS’s “Tetsuya Chikushi NEWS23,” the track is also included on the album CAFE JAPAN, and is notable for its warm acoustic guitar tones and wistful melody.
Its pared-down, unadorned arrangement lets the singer’s emotions come through directly.
The song’s world is fully conveyed even in a simple voice-and-guitar performance, making it perfect for times when you want to immerse yourself in the music.
Consider adding it to your repertoire.
Love ForeverKatō Miriya × Shimizu Shōta17rank/position
Released in May 2009, this is a bittersweet R&B love song by Miliyah Kato and Shota Shimizu.
The lyrics unfold as a duet from both male and female perspectives, portraying the joy and sorrow of love at the same time.
The contrast between the happiness of meeting and the pain of parting is interwoven, with the imagery of memories continuing to shine like stars leaving a strong impression.
The song won Best Collaboration Video at the MTV VMAJ 2010.
It’s a perfect track for when you want to feel the poignancy of romance or look back on memories with someone special.
SUNHoshino Gen18rank/position
It’s a masterpiece with a bright, forward-looking melody and a refreshing rhythm that resonates pleasantly.
Released in May 2015 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Kokoro ga Pokitto ne,” Gen Hoshino’s work is a warm track that incorporates elements of ’70s dance classics and disco.
The song also contains an homage to Michael Jackson, weaving a positive message into its joy-filled tone.
The music video, directed by Akira Sekine, features striking dance scenes choreographed by MIKIKO.
It’s the perfect encouragement song for anyone taking their first step in a new environment or hoping to start a new chapter with a bright outlook.
To all living thingsMoriyama Naotaro19rank/position
Singer-songwriter Naotaro Moriyama is widely known for the smash hit “Sakura (Dokusho)” and for songs with powerful messages that captivate fans and never let go.
His 5th single “To All Living Beings,” used as the theme song for the TV drama “Beloved You” and as an insert song in “Mr.
Kinpachi in Class 3B, Series 8,” features striking, philosophical lyrics sourced from the Kokin Wakashu.
The opening, which begins with a weighty choral arrangement, seems to link perfectly with its message depicting life and existence.
Cynical yet imbued with truth, it’s a masterpiece that blends simplicity with grandeur.
HEAVENFukuyama Masaharu20rank/position
This passionate rock number, which Fukuyama Masaharu crafted as the theme song for the drama “OUT: Wives’ Crimes,” matched the show perfectly and became a major hit.
Released as a single in November 1999, it sold over 800,000 copies in total.
The song’s theme is a perilous yet sweet relationship bound by an irresistible gravity.
Many listeners were likely both thrilled and captivated by the thrilling progression, where Fukuyama’s sultry vocals intertwine with emotionally stirring guitar sounds.
Male Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Song Ranking [2026] (21–30)
sunflowerYūsuke21rank/position
It’s a support song that delivers straightforward gratitude wrapped in a warm rap.
Released in March 2009 as the debut single under the name Yusuke, this work comes from Yusuke Kamiji, who is also active as an actor and TV personality.
It was also chosen as the theme song for “Yusuke Kamiji Himawari Monogatari,” a drama based on Kamiji’s essays.
The lyrics, written in unpretentious language, overflow with thanks to those who have supported him and cheers for those about to take a new step forward.
Perfect for the season of graduations and new departures.