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]
- 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]
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Artists Among People in Their 40s [2026]
Ranking of Popular Songs by Japanese Male Singers from the 1990s [2026] (61–70)
Pathetic.Tonneruzu61rank/position
The comedy duo Tunnels also released a major hit song that year.
Rather than showcasing polished singing, I think the appeal was how they powered through it with the kind of momentum only youth can bring.
They’re still active on variety shows today, and that continuity is something that should be appreciated as well.
April windElefanto Kashimashi62rank/position
“April Wind” is a song by Elephant Kashimashi, a rock band formed in 1981, released as a double A-side single together with one of their signature songs, “At the End of Sorrow.” With a pop sound that marked a complete departure from their previous rock-oriented Elekashi style, the songwriter himself, Hiroji Miyamoto, is said to have agonized over whether this was the right direction due to the stark change in style.
However, once released, it gained popularity, receiving heavy rotation on FM802 and being used in commercials.
It’s a refreshing pop tune perfect for spring—give it a listen!
I can’t put it into wordsofukōsu63rank/position
Kazumasa Oda, with his uniquely transparent and one-of-a-kind voice, never fails to captivate.
“Kotoba ni Dekinai” (“Can’t Put It Into Words”) is a classic released in February 1982 by Off Course, the band led by Oda.
It’s been used in commercials and anime, so many younger listeners may have heard it somewhere.
The Japanese lyrics come through beautifully, making it a song you can really savor as you sing—another of its great qualities.
It’s perfect not only for middle-aged and older listeners, but also for younger people who feel, “I can’t keep up with today’s fast-tempo songs!” Give it a try at karaoke.
excuseSha ran Q64rank/position
A quintessential 90s rock ballad that powerfully voices a man’s aching heart.
This is the 10th single by Sharam Q, the rock band led by Tsunku♂, who is also known as a music producer.
While spouting selfish excuses, the protagonist’s inability to sever his lingering attachment to the lover who left is portrayed over a wistful melody.
Released in April 1996, the song was used as the theme for the Fuji TV drama “Age, 35 Koishikute,” won the Excellence Award at the Japan Record Awards, and cemented the band’s popularity.
It’s a gem of a breakup song that makes you want to pour your emotions into it at karaoke.
Look at the sky.Sha ran Q65rank/position
The eighth single by the rock band Sharam Q, led by Tsunku♂.
Chosen as the image song for Nippon TV’s baseball broadcasts, ’95 Gekikūkan Pro Yakyū, it followed the previous massive hit and reached No.
3 on the Oricon weekly chart.
When you’re feeling troubled or stuck, looking up for a moment can reset your mind and help you move forward—the song delivers that positive message over a refreshing acoustic sound.
Released in August 1995, it’s a recommended track to lighten your heart when you hit a wall at work or in daily life.