Popular Commercial Songs: TV Ad Music Rankings [2026]

Story of My LifeOne Direction57rank/position

One Direction – Story of My Life

A song by One Direction, the UK boy band nicknamed 1D that achieved global success and was even hailed as the second coming of the Beatles.

In Japan, it likely became widely recognized after being featured in NTT DOCOMO’s “Student Discount” commercial.

The driving acoustic guitar arpeggios and the memorable vocals—blending both melancholy and a sense of release—stick in your ears, especially with the song’s catchiness.

It’s a nostalgic, tear-jerking track that feels like a story of life itself, and a massive hit that symbolizes the global music scene since 2010.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Viva la VidaColdplay58rank/position

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)

This is the song that was used in an iPod commercial.

It’s a 2008 work by the British band Coldplay.

It’s also known in Japan by the title “Utsukushiki Seimei” (Beautiful Life).

The religious, loop-like composition built around strings and percussion gives the audience a mysterious sense of elation.

Don’t Stop Me NowQueen59rank/position

Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now (Official Video)

This is the song that was used in the commercial for Kirin Beverage’s “NUDA.” It’s an upbeat, lively track that begins with Freddie Mercury’s piano intro, and in the commercial, Okamura from Ninety-Nine dancing breakdance to the song became a hot topic.

U Can’t Touch ThisMC Hammer60rank/position

M.C. Hammer – U Can’t Touch This

In the Eat Mint commercial featuring Ryoma Takeuchi, it shows how eating Eat Mint switches him into work mode, emphasizing that it’s the perfect product for changing your mindset.

The structure that unfolds rhythmically to the background music is particularly striking.

The song playing in this commercial is actually not an original track for the ad, but a cover of M.C.

Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This.” The original was released in 1990 and has long been cherished as one of his signature songs.

The confidently delivered, funky lyrics are incredibly cool, so be sure to listen while checking out the original lyrics and their Japanese translation.

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Hane Keisuke

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You’re BeautifulJames Blunt61rank/position

James Blunt – You’re Beautiful (Official Music Video) [4K]

A single by James Blunt, a UK singer with a former-military background, and his third release.

This is the song that made James Blunt a global star, and many in Japan have likely heard it as the theme for TOYOTA’s Vitz commercial and as an insert song in the TV drama “Kobayakawa Nobuki no Koi.” Its unforgettable phrase, once heard, leaves a powerful impression.

With a simple arrangement that highlights his emotional vocals, it’s a beautiful number that justifiably reached No.

1 in 11 countries.

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Hoshino Takashi

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SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire62rank/position

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

This piece portrays Anne Nakamura, who made her stage debut here, visiting Haiyūza Theater as it draws the curtain on its 70-year history, and coming to feel the weight of that history and her gratitude.

With a can of Hon-Kirin in hand, she toasts with people who hold this place dear, creating a sense of warmth that suggests everyone intends to enjoy themselves right to the end.

The depiction of a resolve to take on new challenges also conveys human strength.

The song that underscores the lively, convivial atmosphere of everyone sharing their thoughts is Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September.” Its light, layered sound and vocals are striking, and its bright melody lifts the spirits of those who listen.

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kappamaki

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UnstoppableSia63rank/position

Sia – Unstoppable (Official Video – Live from the Nostalgic For The Present Tour)

This song by Australian singer-songwriter Sia, released in 2016, is probably familiar to many people.

That’s because it was featured in a Galaxy S22 Ultra commercial.

The distinctive chorus played in the ad.

The track is included on the album “This Is Acting.” Although she admits there’s a weak side within herself, she hides it and belts out, “No one can stop me!!” The lyrics, which feel like she’s rallying herself, are sure to give courage to many listeners.

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Hane Keisuke

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