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] (31–40)
Family LandscapeHanaregumi36rank/position
Hanaregumi is the solo project of Takashi Nagazumi, the vocalist of SUPER BUTTER DOG, one of Japan’s leading funk bands.
Its appeal lies in songs that highlight an acoustic, folk-like sound, distinct from the band’s style.
The 2002 debut single “Kazoku no Fukei” (“Family’s Scenery”) is one such track, where acoustic guitar, upright bass, and brushed drums create a somewhat nostalgic sound.
The lyrics about a father and mother are poignant and really hit you in the heart.
UraraBikkeburanka37rank/position
This is Vickeblanka’s breakout work, wrapping the farewells that come with the arrival of spring in a refreshing, forward-looking melody.
While influenced by Showa-era pop, it offers a modern interpretation that expresses the joy of overcoming goodbyes and moving toward a new self.
Released in April 2018 as the first single, it features a simple, straightforward message and a light, acoustic guitar–driven sound.
It’s a song that stands by those starting a new chapter or taking a fresh step forward.
Brimming with positive brightness and freshness, it will surely give you a push when you listen to it before heading out in the morning or during your commute to school or work.
LA LA LA Love SongKubota Toshinobu38rank/position
Known as a classic hit of the Heisei era, this song captured many hearts with Toshinobu Kubota’s powerful vocals and emotionally rich lyrics.
The verses, which portray sweet moments with a lover and a deep bond, resonate with listeners.
Released in 1996, it drew major attention as the theme song for Fuji TV’s drama “Long Vacation.” The success of this work was also greatly due to the efforts of Sony Music’s promotion team.
The impact of the tie-in with the drama on the music industry is immeasurable.
It’s a highly recommended track for those who want to express feelings of love or look back on memories with someone special.
Use it in an Instagram Reel, and your post is sure to become even more appealing.
ALWAYSMitsunaga Ryota39rank/position
This is singer-songwriter Ryota Mitsunaga’s debut single.
It seems that these days he is mainly active as a songwriter for other artists.
This song was also used as the theme for the drama “Itsumo Futari de.” With soaring high notes in the chorus, a lively rhythm, and an overall refreshing feel, it’s a track that maintains a breezy brightness from start to finish.
SaraiKayama Yūzō & Tanimura Shinji40rank/position
A moving ballad featuring two stars who represent the Japanese music scene, Yuzo Kayama and Shinji Tanimura.
The lyrics were written based on viewers’ messages, and the song was created as part of a project to complete it within a 24-hour broadcast.
Released as a single in November 1992, it’s well known as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “24-Hour Television: Love Saves the Earth.” With its relaxed tempo and gentle melodic contours, it allows for easy breathing and is very singer-friendly.
The chorus builds a unifying sense of excitement that brings the audience together—perfect for linking arms and singing along as a group near the end of a karaoke session.
Male Singer-Songwriters of the 2000s: Popular Song Rankings [2026] (41–50)
energy flowSakamoto Ryuichi41rank/position
This is a masterpiece whose delicate, translucent piano tones gently soothe the heart.
The clear, pristine melody played by Ryuichi Sakamoto tenderly accompanies the listener, like a breeze rippling across the surface of water.
Released in May 1999 as a theme for a Daiichi Sankyo pharmaceutical commercial, this piece achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first instrumental work to top the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, its simple yet deeply expressive sound resonating with many.
Its pleasant sense of weightlessness offers a moment of peace from a busy day, aids concentration, and provides a serene companion for quiet reading—creating a truly healing experience.
Katsushika RhapsodyDōjima Kōhei42rank/position
The third opening theme for the anime “Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-mae Hashutsujo” was “Katsushika Rhapsody,” a song by singer-songwriter Kohei Dojima.
Released in 1997 as his seventh single, it was crafted as a local song for Katsushika Ward in Tokyo.
It’s a heartwarming track with a gently soothing tone.
In 2003, it was covered by the ska band Yum!Yum!ORANGE and used as the anime’s seventh opening theme.