Popular Band Songs Ranking [2026]

Thank youikimonogakari64rank/position

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

Feelings of gratitude that are too embarrassing to express on ordinary days might be easier to convey honestly at graduation.

This song, which portrays the warmth of holding someone’s hand, the happiness of everyday life, and the resolve to walk toward the future, is truly a classic befitting a new beginning.

Ikimono-gakari’s single “Arigatou,” released in May 2010, was widely loved as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyōbō.

Thanks to its universal appeal, it was also selected as the entrance march for the 2011 National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

The words woven by Yoshiki Mizuno and the vocals of Kiyoe Yoshioka gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.

Why not listen to this perfect piece for expressing gratitude to parents and teachers at graduation and find the courage to take your next step?

NAOHY65rank/position

SOLIDEMO / NAO（HY cover）

A timeless hit by HY that we want those with a heartbreaking unrequited love—whose feelings don’t reach the one they truly love—to hear.

Included on the album “Confidence,” released in April 2006, this song was created based on the real-life experience of vocalist Izumi Nakasone’s close friend.

Many listeners may find themselves in tears, empathizing with the lyrics that lay bare the pain of wanting to see someone even when you’re being treated conveniently.

The title is said to carry the meaning “I’ll think of you again and again,” conveying a profound love, doesn’t it? It’s a song that gives you the strength to overcome the heartache.

1.15 Million Kilometers of FilmOfisharu Higedan Dism66rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – 1,150,000-Kilometer Film [Official Audio]

This song is the quintessential love song by Official HIGE DANDism, included on the album Escaparade released in April 2018.

It likens life to a single reel of film, infused with a warm desire to keep recording memories with a beloved partner.

Many listeners likely feel their hearts flutter at the cinematic worldview that paints the two lovers’ story as if it were a movie.

It also drew attention as the theme song for the film Love Me, Love Me Not, released in August 2020.

Although not a single, it has continued to be adored by many, with over 600 million streams.

A classic choice as a wedding song for pledging your future together, this track makes even the most ordinary everyday scenes shine when you listen to it with the one you love in the gentle spring air.

fishback number67rank/position

back number – fish

Back Number’s “fish” is a masterpiece that poignantly and beautifully sings about the pain of a heartbreak that feels like it might break your spirit.

Written from a woman’s perspective, the lyrics trace lingering attachment to a lost love, cutting straight to the heart.

It’s as if it symbolizes how we become adults each time we say goodbye.

Take your time savoring the feelings that sway between regret and sorrow, accompanied by a soothing ballad sound.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION68rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite” (M-1 Grand Prix 2024 Promotion Video Theme Song)

Just hearing the intro guitar riff is enough to get many people’s blood pumping, isn’t it? Released in August 2004, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s “Rewrite” is a rock tune that’s remained a karaoke staple for years.

Chosen as an opening theme for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist, the song is also included on the classic album Sol-fa and is widely known as one of the band’s signature tracks.

Its emotional lyrics, which feel like an eruption of pent-up feelings, are sure to resonate deeply with those overwhelmed by daily work.

When the chorus—the biggest climax—hits, the best way to sing it is to forget about pitch and just shout at the top of your lungs! Next time you’re with coworkers or old school friends, why not grab the mic and scream your heart out?

catDISH//69rank/position

cat

A signature bittersweet ballad by DISH//, known for being written and composed by singer-songwriter Aimyon.

While depicting a parting with a loved one, the lyrics poignantly overlay their memory onto the image of a free-spirited animal—something that really pierces the heart.

Many listeners are likely moved to tears by the protagonist’s earnest desire to reunite, no matter the form.

Although it was originally the B-side to the single “We Did It” released in August 2017, it exploded in popularity after a performance video was posted on the YouTube channel “THE FIRST TAKE” in March 2020.

The song has surpassed 1 billion total streams, and in October 2020 it was also featured as an insert song in TV Tokyo’s Drama 25 series “Neko.” It’s a masterpiece that gently keeps you company on nights when you want to sink into music.

dance hallMrs. GREEN APPLE70rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Dance Hall” Official Music Video

The moment that familiar melody from the morning news show starts playing, the atmosphere instantly brightens and everyone’s energy peaks! Featured on Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s mini-album “Unity,” released in July 2022, this track is also well known as the theme song for “Mezamashi 8.” Its upbeat lyrics—encouraging you to dance the night away with a smile, even when you’re feeling down—shine a light on the hearts of people enjoying the game.

It’s a renowned song that also won the Excellence Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards, and the dance in the music video drew plenty of buzz.

With an easy-to-follow rhythm and a comfortable walking tempo, it’s perfect as BGM for musical chairs.

Enjoy the sense of unity in the room with its catchy, universally known sound.