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Ranking of Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among University Students [2026]

Even if we simply say “J-POP artists,” the number of artists covered is countless.

J-POP itself is diverse, after all.

The genre known as J-POP became established in the Heisei era.

It’s a relatively new field, but among its wide variety, which ones are popular with college students?

Ranking of Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Artists Among University Students [2026] (31–40)

MiracleGReeeeN36rank/position

It fired up the drama with passion as the theme song for TBS’s series ROOKIES.

That song always played during the best scenes, and Ryuta Sato’s powerful performance brought me to tears…

I think many people are reminded of the drama whenever they hear this track.

Of course, even apart from the show, the song’s emotional impact doesn’t fade—it’s perfect for livening up sports festivals and field days.

It would also be great as the entrance music for a baton relay.

Be sure to play it at the most thrilling moments, like the final battle or the championship match!

Soul RevolutionSuperfly37rank/position

Superfly 'Tamashii Revolution' Music Video
Soul RevolutionSuperfly

The song you should listen to at that crucial moment during a sports day or athletic festival is “Tamashii Revolution.” Released in 2010 by Superfly, known for the massive hit “Ai wo Komete Hanataba wo,” it was used as the theme song for live broadcasts and highlights of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

A heavy, hard rock-like band sound resonates throughout.

Shiho Ochi’s powerful yet emotional vocals will cheer you on.

How about using this rock tune, which amps up the athletes’ momentum, as your BGM?

HEROAmuro Namie38rank/position

Hero – Namie Amuro (Full)
HEROAmuro Namie

Namie Amuro, the singer who sparked the “Amuraa” boom that became a social phenomenon in the 1990s and rose to fame as a charismatic icon for young women.

Her 45th single “Hero,” chosen as the NHK theme song for broadcasts of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics and Paralympics, features a sweeping melody woven with her beautiful vocals that truly stirs the heart.

Its dramatic ensemble mirrors the ever-changing tides of competition at sports days and athletic festivals, lifting your spirits in step.

With its powerful choral work that amps up the energy, it’s an emotional number through and through.

Fly Highmilet39rank/position

milet “Fly High” MUSIC VIDEO (NHK Winter Sports Theme Song)
Fly Highmilet

Singer milet, who has worked on numerous anime and commercial tie-in songs, is known for her husky yet supple voice.

Among her tracks, the one that’s perfect for a sports day is “Fly High.” It’s included on her 2022 release “visions” and was selected as the theme song for NHK’s “Winter Sports.” Its dramatic sound with a grand atmosphere is truly moving.

If you’re looking for BGM for the opening ceremony or athletes’ entrance, be sure to give it a listen.

A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki40rank/position

Masaki Suda “A Scenery I’ve Never Seen”
A view I've never seen beforeSuda Masaki

This is Masaki Suda’s debut track, packed with passion through its driving rock sound and powerful vocals.

Released in June 2017, the song earnestly portrays people who keep moving forward even while covered in mud.

Its message, full of determination and passion toward the future, was featured in au’s “au BLUE CHALLENGE” series and resonated with many listeners.

The track is included on the album “PLAY” and garnered high acclaim, reaching No.

3 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

It’s also perfect as entrance music for athletes at school sports days, gently yet powerfully pushing forward everyone who is striving to face ahead.

Most Popular Japanese Pop (J-POP) Artists Among University Students [2026] (Ranks 41–50)

Have a nice dayNishino Kana41rank/position

Kana Nishino 'Have a nice day' MV Full
Have a nice dayNishino Kana

The theme song selected for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi TV is Kana Nishino’s “Have a nice day.” It’s the lead track from her 2016 album “Just LOVE,” which reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

The lyrics, which depict a girl’s hectic morning moments, are utterly charming.

The brisk, up-tempo feel and the alarm clock sound used as an effect make it perfect as an alarm.

Be sure to wake up early and take it easy while watching a morning TV program!

It’s okay.BLUE ENCOUNT42rank/position

BLUE ENCOUNT “Daijoubu” Music Video (YouTube Ver.)
It's okay.BLUE ENCOUNT

With lyrics that hit straight to the heart, BLUE ENCOUNT’s “Daijoubu” pairs perfectly with youth.

Many of Blue En’s songs bring tears and reach straight for your heart, don’t they? This track is their fifth single, released in 2016.

True to the title “Daijoubu” (“It’s okay”), it’s a song that wholeheartedly affirms and cheers you on.

It’s a perfect fit as BGM for a sports day, giving you the motivation to look up, push forward, and aim higher.