Japanese Pop (J-Pop) Rankings Popular Among Women [2026]

You…Nishino Kana36rank/position

Kana Nishino “You” Live Performance - Kana Nishino “Kimitte”

A ballad released in November 2010 that gently sings of gratitude and love for a significant other.

Its lyrics speak for those who, despite unwavering feelings, aren’t the best at expressing themselves, and they blend beautifully with Kana Nishino’s clear, pure vocals.

The song was featured as an insert track in the Fuji TV drama “Freeter, Ie wo Kau.” and was also included on the 2011 album “Thank you, Love.” It’s a classic you’ll want to listen to when you want to convey your feelings honestly or feel the bond with someone special.

The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE37rank/position

The Future Projection II

When it comes to DREAMS COME TRUE’s signature songs, many people probably think of this one.

It’s a heartwarming piece that looks back on memories with a loved one while singing about hope for the future.

Although it’s included on the album “LOVE GOES ON…” and was never released as a single, it has continued to be cherished by many.

It was also featured in a 1993 commercial for a SONY product, making it popular across generations.

It’s a song that warms the heart when you want to feel the bond with someone important or when you’re tired from everyday life.

The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell38rank/position

Supercell – The Story You Don't Know

Isn’t this the generational anthem packed with the golden age of late-night anime × Nico Nico culture × the bittersweetness of youth—the ending theme of the anime Bakemonogatari? The overall vocal range is A3 to D5 and stays fairly high throughout.

In particular, the top note D5 appears frequently in the chorus, so it’s best to sing it without straining by incorporating falsetto.

The tempo isn’t too fast and should be easy to groove to while singing, so try to feel it with your body as you listen closely to the backing band.

In the chorus, be mindful of accents and align your vocal timing to hit the pitch bar!

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Kubota Mami

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A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko39rank/position

“Cruel Angel’s Thesis” MUSIC VIDEO (HD ver.) / Zankoku na Tenshi no Te-ze “The Cruel Angel’s Thesis”

The anime tie-in song performed by Yoko Takahashi, whose charismatic vocals are captivating, tells a grand story of a boy’s growth and his challenge toward a new world.

It’s a compelling track filled with dramatic expression and a determined drive to move forward.

Released in October 1995, the song was used as the opening theme for the TV anime Neon Genesis Evangelion and caused a major sensation.

It consistently ranks high on karaoke popularity charts, making it a song that bridges generations without creating a gap, even in mixed-age gatherings.

It’s a masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of anime songs—one you should definitely sing at karaoke.

Secret of my heartKuraki Mai40rank/position

Mai Kuraki 'Secret of my heart'

Mai Kuraki, a singer-songwriter who drew attention when her first single “Love, Day After Tomorrow” became a million seller despite being a debut track with no tie-in, continued to impress with her second single “Secret of my heart,” used as the ending theme for the TV anime Detective Conan.

The song showcases an overwhelming expressive power and delicacy that belies her teenage years.

Its many subtle nuances make it difficult to sing well, but performing it at karaoke is likely to captivate men in their 40s who probably heard it in real time.

With its catchy melody that energizes any karaoke session, it’s a highly recommended number.

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Hoshino Takashi

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BeautifulSuperfly41rank/position

Superfly『Beautiful』Music Video

This is a song that fully showcases the appeal of high notes.

With a powerful message, its lyrics that boost self-esteem resonate deeply.

It is included on the album “WHITE” and was released in May 2015.

It was chosen as the theme song for a TBS drama and was also used in a JAL commercial.

Shiho Ochi’s overwhelming vocal prowess and the exhilarating sound are distinctive.

It’s recommended for those who want to cherish their individuality or need a positive boost.

It will surely give courage and hope to everyone who listens.

Unfit to be a loverKoresawa42rank/position

Koresawa “Unqualified as a Lover” [Music Video]

A breakup ballad from a male perspective that portrays the anguish and regret of the one who said goodbye.

It’s a self-cover sung from the viewpoint of the man who leaves the room in Koresawa’s signature song “Tabako.” Released as a digital single in June 2019, it was later included on the concept mini-album “Heartbreak Scrap” in January 2020.

Originally written for Miyuhan, the track drew attention with its music video featuring Ryusei Yokohama.

The song movingly captures the conflict of a man who ends the relationship precisely because he loves her, blaming not her but his own shortcomings.

Listening to it alongside “Tabako” deepens your understanding of the couple’s emotional misalignment.

Highly recommended for anyone who’s experienced the end of a cherished relationship or carries guilt over having hurt someone they love.