Ranking of Popular Japanese Pop (J-Pop) Artists Among People in Their 50s [2026]

Christmas EveYamashita Tatsuro78rank/position

Nana Eikura stars in Tatsuro Yamashita’s “Christmas Eve” special movie-version PV

A beloved classic Christmas song and one of Tatsuro Yamashita’s signature works.

Its sentimental lyrics about heartbreak and its beautiful melody truly resonate.

Released in 1983, the song became a massive hit after being featured in a JR Tokai commercial.

Since then, it has become one of Japan’s quintessential winter songs, heard throughout towns every Christmas season.

For those in their 50s, it’s likely a timeless piece that brings back memories of their youth.

It’s a perfect song to listen to while spending Christmas with someone special or quietly reflecting on the past year.

Mazinger ZMizuki Ichirō79rank/position

Ichiro Mizuki – Mazinger Z INFINITY [AMV / MAD]

Alongside artists like Takayuki Miyauchi and Akira Kushida, Ichiro Mizuki is a veteran anison singer who has led the anime song scene.

Despite his powerful vocal ability, he never puts himself forward and remains devoted to the essence of anime songs—his vocal ethos is truly admirable.

They are wonderful tracks that make any man’s heart race, regardless of generation.

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Ryo

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Sneaker BluesKondō Masahiko80rank/position

Sneaker Blues - Masahiko Kondo

A classic song that strikingly combines poignancy and strength, depicting the breakup of lovers who raced through the season of youth.

With fond memories of time spent together in matching sneakers held close to their hearts, the pure emotions of young love overflow in a stirring melody and vocals that many listeners will find relatable.

Released in December 1980 as Masahiko Kondo’s debut single and used as the theme song for the film “Youth Graffiti: Sneaker Blues,” it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

It’s a track that resonates even more deeply now with nostalgic memories as the years have passed.

Perfect for reliving past romances and getting fired up at karaoke with friends.

Island SongTHE BOOM81rank/position

THE BOOM “Shima Uta (Original Version)” Official Music Video

When it comes to karaoke repertoire, “Shima Uta” is a must, don’t you think? It incorporates elements of Okinawan music and has a poignant tone with themes of nature, prayer, and parting.

The overall range spans A#2 to A4, leaning wide on the low end, but if you manage your breath well, you can stay on pitch.

The melody is very simple, so it should be easy for anyone to sing.

When aiming for a high score, be careful not to slip during the section where the tempo speeds up at the end, and nail the finish.

For the low notes, focus on sending your breath forward slowly.

Let your body resonate and go for a top score!

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Kubota Mami

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Before anything else, from atop the roadIsseifubi Sepia82rank/position

Issei Fubi Sepia “Dear Sir/Madam, From Above the Road” [Official]

This track, distinguished by lively festival-like drums and flutes, weaves in themes that deeply reflect on the meaning of life and personal values through scenes of nature.

While questioning the purpose of living and our reason for being, it delivers a powerful message of courage and hope in the face of hardship.

Released in June 1984 as the debut single of Ikkyo Fubi Sepia, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon charts.

It was also used in commercials for SUZUKI’s scooter “Love THREE” and Kirin Beer’s “Kirin Shochu Tanrei Straight,” gaining popularity across a wide audience.

It’s a song that gives you the strength to face forward and keep walking when you’re at a crossroads in life, feeling lost or anxious.

Love Story Comes SuddenlyOda Kazumasa83rank/position

Kazumasa Oda - Love Story Suddenly

Singer-songwriter Kazumasa Oda, who rose to popularity with his high-toned voice tinged with transience and his playful character, continues to be highly active today.

“Love Story wa Totsuzen ni,” written as the theme song for the quintessential trendy drama Tokyo Love Story, was originally included as the B-side to his sixth single, “Oh! Yeah!” Its airy, urban arrangement still feels timeless even now.

It’s a pop tune whose massive success makes perfect sense—the opening guitar alone brings back iconic scenes from the drama.

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Hoshino Takashi

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MasqueradeShonentai84rank/position

Masquerade Ball Shonentai 1985

Beginning with an innovative 5/4-time intro, this song portrays the true emotions lurking behind human relationships through the scene of a masquerade ball.

The repeated English phrases give it a powerful drive that awakens inner passion.

Released in December 1985, it marked the group’s first appearance at the 37th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen the following year.

The staging on the TV program “The Best Ten” also drew attention, proving the high caliber of the performance.

It’s a track distinguished by Shonentai’s sharp dance and acrobatic moves.