Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Artist Rankings [2026]

Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster85rank/position

“Someday These Tears Will” – Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster is known for their emotionally resonant vocals.

The “moving song you’ll want to hear in March” we’re featuring is a classic written as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Its message—that the tears and setbacks you face while chasing your dreams will eventually become badges of honor that support you—truly hits home.

The lyrics, co-written by Junji Ishiwatari and the members, speak to how even frustration can become fuel for the future, and are sure to stir your heart.

Released in December 2017 and included on the album “juice,” this track is recommended not only for students dedicated to their club activities, but also for anyone stepping onto a new stage such as entrance exams or job hunting.

As an anthem that stays close to your anxieties and loneliness and gives you the courage to take your next step, it’s perfect for the spring season—be sure to give it a listen.

Love’s Melody and Rainy SkiesAAA86rank/position

AAA / “Love Sound and Rainy Sky” Music Video

A co-ed performance group, AAA released this song as their 38th single in September 2013.

It’s also included on the album “Eighth Wonder.” The track won the Excellence Award at the 55th Japan Record Awards and was performed twice on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, becoming one of the group’s signature hits.

It portrays feelings that are hard to express honestly, yet a sincere desire to stay together forever—a slightly bittersweet love song that overlays a pining heart with the early autumn rainy sky.

The frustration of wanting to say “I love you” but not being able to take that step will resonate deeply, and the lyrics are sure to strike a chord with anyone in love.

With both male and female vocal parts, it’s also great for a karaoke duet!

Blessinghalyosy87rank/position

Blessing feat. VOCALOIDS (Collaboration)

A song posted by halyosy in April 2014, sung all together by six vocalists: Hatsune Miku, Kagamine Rin and Len, Megurine Luka, KAITO, and MEIKO.

It’s a message song that celebrates the very act of living.

The lyrics, which encourage you to keep looking forward without being swayed by numerical evaluations in online society—like play counts and tags—really strike a chord.

It also features a distinctive, mixed sound arrangement that incorporates traditional Japanese instruments.

A heartwarming Vocaloid track that will make you want to sing along with friends.

Two-Faced Loverswowaka88rank/position

[NicoKara] Ura Omote Lovers [onVocal].flv

Created by wowaka, this work has captivated many listeners since its release in August 2009.

It explores themes of opposing emotions such as reality and fiction, love and hate, with rapid-fire lyrics and rock sounds blending beautifully.

Though time has passed since its release, it still radiates an undimmed allure.

Be sure to belt out this classic of Vocaloid rock!

The Disappearance of Hatsune MikucosMo@bousou P89rank/position

The Disappearance of Hatsune Miku (THE END OF HATSUNE MIKU) – cosMo@Bousou-P

One of the signature works by Vocaloid producer cosMo@BousouP, released in April 2008.

It features an ultra-fast melodic line and an overwhelming piano riff, astonishing listeners with an expression that surpasses human singing.

The lyrics, which depict the very moment when the existence known as Hatsune Miku fades away, leave a deeply heartrending impression.

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say this track helped shape the early days of the Vocaloid scene.

Give it a listen when you want to challenge your own limits!

March 9Remioromen90rank/position

Remioromen – March 9

Remioromen is a rock band formed by classmates from Yamanashi Prefecture that left behind numerous classic songs.

Released in March 2004, this work is a Heisei-era defining ballad, perfect for solo acoustic performance, with delicate acoustic guitar arpeggios that resonate deeply.

Originally composed for a member’s friend’s wedding, it gained widespread popularity in 2005 when it was featured as an insert song in the drama “1 Litre of Tears,” and has since become a staple during graduation season.

The lyrics express the joy of dreaming together with someone precious amid changing seasons, and a sense of gratitude for how that person’s presence gives strength.

Its warm and empowering message gently encourages those taking a new step forward.

Patchwork Staccatotoa91rank/position

Toa – Patchwork Staccato – ft. Hatsune Miku

This is a Vocaloid song that portrays a bittersweet heartbreak where the characters can’t bring an end to a patchwork, pieced-together relationship.

Released by Toa in June 2014 on Nico Nico Douga, it reached a million views in August 2016.

Over an electropop sound, the protagonist lays bare their feelings, unable to say goodbye.

The gap between the cute-sounding onomatopoeia and the piercingly honest confessions really hits home.

It gently stays by your side when you want to look back on a one-sided love.