Ranking of Popular Songs by Japanese Male Singers from the 1990s [2026]
The 1990s saw notable advancements in digital sound and the emergence of many music groups, making group-based music activities more common.
At the same time, numerous solo releases by singers also became major hits.
Here, we introduce a ranking of popular singers from the 1990s—especially male singers—through which you can also feel the progress of music technology.
- 1990s Male Singer-Songwriters: Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Iconic ballads of 90s J-pop: nostalgic mega-hits and fan favorites
- [J-Pop] Debut songs by male solo artists from the 1990s
- Classic and hit songs by nostalgic Japanese bands from the 1990s
- Karaoke songs that were hits in the ’90s. Classic and popular tracks from Japanese music.
- Recommended Japanese Music Artists and Popular Song Rankings for Men in Their 50s [2026]
- [J-Rock] Timeless masterpieces that colored the 1990s. Nostalgic hit songs.
- Classic and hit J-pop songs from the nostalgic ’90s
- Band rankings popular among people in their 50s [2026]
- Tear-jerking J-pop from the ’90s. Hit songs and real tearjerkers.
- Showa Era Popular Artist Rankings [2026]
- A roundup of hit love songs from the ’90s
- A roundup of songs for men in their 30s to sing [’90s–’00s tracks]
90s Japanese Male Singers: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (71–80)
The Reason We Set Out on a JourneyOzawa Kenji78rank/position
When those dazzling horns ring out in the intro, your heart starts to race and you feel a touch of bittersweetness, don’t you? The lyrics, sprinkled with words like “Tokyo Tower” and “airport,” are full of a tenderness that seems to affirm even the loneliness of parting.
Included on the classic 1994 album LIFE and later released as a single in 1996 as the theme song for the drama Shota no Sushi, this track also features a memorable phrase borrowed from a Paul Simon song, and it continues to be loved as a signature Shibuya-kei anthem.
It’s perfect for listening while thinking of friends or lovers far away, and it’s sure to give a fresh, gentle push to anyone setting off on a spring journey!
Strong feelings, strong loveOzawa Kenji79rank/position
Ozawa Kenji’s seventh single, released on February 28, 1995.
Composed by Kyohei Tsutsumi—an unbeatable duo! A groovy, uplifting sound with an irresistibly bright vocal! Beyond the sunny lyrics lies a deep, powerful love.
It’s a masterpiece overflowing with love that makes you feel like sharing both joy and sorrow.
celeryYamazaki Masayoshi80rank/position
It might give off the vibe of being either a song by Masayoshi Yamazaki or a SMAP song.
Tracing its history, it’s a track that enjoyed two waves of success: first released by Masayoshi Yamazaki in 1996, then covered by SMAP in 1997.
It’s a warm song about differences in likes and dislikes between lovers, and how they draw closer to bridge those gaps together.
Top Japanese Male Singers and Popular Songs of the 1990s [2026] (81–90)
You are more beautiful than a rose.Fuse Akira81rank/position
It’s a classic of Showa-era pop music that was influenced by Western new music.
Akira Fuse’s clear, warm vocals beautifully convey the praise for a woman and the depth of love embedded in the lyrics.
Released in January 1979 as Fuse’s 42nd single, the song was featured in a Kanebo cosmetics commercial.
It has remained beloved by many, having been performed four times on NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics depict a man moved by the changes he notices in a woman he reunites with after a long time, capturing the subtleties of romance and human relationships.
It’s a perfect song for those whose hearts are fluttering ahead of a reunion with someone dear.
GET THE WORLDKageyama Hironobu82rank/position
Just hearing the intro makes your heart start dancing—this is that kind of song.
It’s the theme song of Bakusō Kyōdai Let’s & Go!! Thanks to this anime, Mini 4WDs became a social phenomenon.
The cool melody and vocals are irresistible! Sing it at karaoke and it’s guaranteed to hype everyone up.
It’s a work that matches the anime’s image perfectly.
WE GOTTA POWERKageyama Hironobu83rank/position
When it comes to the theme song of Dragon Ball, it simply has to start with Hironobu Kageyama’s voice.
Released in 1993, this track was used as the latter opening theme for the Dragon Ball Z TV anime.
Kageyama’s powerful vocals, the up-tempo sound, and Yukinojo Mori’s brilliant lyrics that perfectly match the work—all of it boasts a quality that’s like the gold standard for anime songs.
Even the title, which ignores grammatical meaning, is amazing in how it prioritizes sheer momentum!
MoonlightKuwana Masahiro84rank/position
Musician Masahiro Kuwana, who gained popularity with his one-of-a-kind dandy looks, is also known for appearing in numerous films and TV dramas.
Among his songs, the one that brims with nostalgic charm is Tsuki no Akari, released in 1978.
It is recognized as one of his signature tracks and continues to be loved by many across generations.
The melancholic tones of the acoustic guitar will resonate in your heart.
Take a moment to listen to his voice, which feels as if he’s speaking directly to you.
