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

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS76rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

This is a mid-tempo ballad themed around gratitude, released as the final single by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, who disbanded to much regret in 2013.

It was used as the theme song for NTV’s “Akamara! Scoop Koshien” and as the official song for MBS’s 85th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

The music video, which drew major attention, features Sanma Akashiya playing a junior high school teacher approaching retirement.

Blending the group’s signature rap-like delivery with a catchy melody, the song naturally stirs feelings of appreciation for the people who have supported you—parents, friends, teachers, and more.

It peaked at No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and is also included on the best-of album “Funky Monkey Babys LAST BEST.” It’s a moving number that brings hearts together—perfect for conveying gratitude to someone special at a graduation ceremony, especially when arranged for and performed by a wind ensemble.

Dawn and Firefliesn-buna77rank/position

[Hatsune Miku] Dawn and Fireflies [Original]

“Yoake to Hotaru” is a song by the Vocaloid producer n-buna, released in 2014.

It was included on the 2015 album “Hana to Mizuame, Saishuu Densha” (Flowers and Sugar Water, Last Train).

It’s a deeply nostalgic number that makes effective use of rests and muted guitar techniques.

In the song’s climax, the sound surges like a wave.

It’s a piece that offers comfort to those who have experienced heartbreak or parting.

tobacco / cigarette(s)Koresawa78rank/position

Koresawa “Tobacco” [Music Video]

Released in March 2017, this song was put out as Koresawa’s final single before her major-label debut—a poignant ballad about heartbreak.

The scene where the narrator picks up something left behind by an ex they supposedly hated, only to choke on its lingering scent, conveys the pain of regret over a lost relationship.

The lyrics interweave the remorse of not having paid enough attention to the other person with the longing to have been seen more themselves, vividly reflecting the anguish of a breakup brought on by clumsy expressions of love.

Set against a simple acoustic sound, Koresawa’s vocals gently soak into the heart, carrying the weight of feelings that couldn’t be put into words.

migratory bird[Alexandros]79rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

A song by [Alexandros], who have numerous tie-ins with films and commercials.

From the intro, the exhilarating guitar riff feels like a tailwind, and the moment you hear it, images of sprinting under a blue sky unfold.

The lyrics depict continuing to fly along the path you believe in even without the spotlight, and a desire to stay close to a wounded heart, gently giving you a push to take a new step forward.

Released in March 2015 as their 10th single, it drew attention as the theme song for the film “Akegarasu.” As of February 2026, the music video has surpassed 200 million views on YouTube, attesting to its popularity.

Although the word “spring” never appears, it perfectly matches the sense of excitement that comes with a season when something new begins.

It’s also recommended as a companion for starting a new chapter in life or for a drive that makes you want to head somewhere far away.

Hand in handkuriipuhaipe80rank/position

CreepHyp “Hand in Hand”

Whether it’s a breakup or a fight with a friend, sometimes we crack our relationships and end up regretting it deeply.

Te to Te (Hand in Hand) depicts that very inner turmoil.

Specifically, it portrays the restless late-night hours spent alone, wrestling with one’s thoughts.

The track is by the band CreepHyp, fronted by vocalist Ozaki Sekai-kan.

His high-tone voice and the raw guitar melodies perfectly complement the song’s world.

Give it a listen on a sleepless night.

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