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

Words of FarewellKaientai43rank/position

Kaientai was an organization founded by Ryoma Sakamoto that handled tasks like transporting goods and brokering trade—essentially what we’d now call a general trading company.

Given that Takeda Tetsuya admired Sakamoto so much that he named his band Kaientai, his love for Ryoma is truly profound.

Speaking of Kaientai, “Okuru Kotoba” was the go-to song for graduation ceremonies when it was released.

Even after many years, we still remember the lyrics; the song’s quality combined with graduation memories has made it an unforgettable track in many people’s lives.

Whenever you sing it at karaoke, it always brings back memories of graduation—a song brimming with nostalgia.

Can’t Stop the RomanticC-C-B44rank/position

Romantic Ga Tomaranai (Single Mix)

A song released in 1985 that was also used as the theme for the smash-hit drama “Sugao no Mama de.” Its lyrics portray the shift from friends to lovers, paired with a catchy melody.

It became C-C-B’s biggest hit and cemented the band’s status.

The song greatly influenced youth culture of the time and is still beloved by many fans today.

With its pop 80s sound and lyrics that skillfully capture both the sweetness and bitterness of romance, it evokes nostalgia even for men in their 50s.

For karaoke, it’s perfect for singing while reminiscing about your youth.

It’s also an ideal go-to for parties and class reunions, where you can get hyped together with friends of the same generation.

Don’t give upZARD45rank/position

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

A signature ZARD song known for its powerful, heart-touching message and warm vocals.

Released in January 1993 as the theme song for the drama “Reiko Shiratori desu!” this piece beautifully sings of feelings for a cherished person working hard far away.

Izumi Sakai’s gentle voice conveys encouragement and deep love for a beloved, resulting in a song that feels close to the listener’s heart.

It has been used as the entrance march for the Spring High School Baseball Tournament and in the 24-Hour TV charity marathon, becoming established as a cheering anthem.

It’s a reliable companion when you want to support someone striving toward their dreams—or to rouse your own spirits.

Do whatever the hell you want.sawada kenji46rank/position

Kenji Sawada – Do As You Please (1977 TMF)

This was Kenji Sawada’s (Julie’s) 19th single overall, released in May 1977.

By now—as of 2023, when I’m writing this—it’s an undisputed masterpiece of Showa-era pop for anyone in their 50s! The moment in the chorus where Sawada throws off his hat was unforgettable.

I still vividly remember putting on makeup to look just like Julie and singing this song at my elementary school party.

It’s a very singable, upbeat number, so by all means try copying the choreography and have fun singing along.

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Kei Takahata

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365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB4847rank/position

[MV] Paper Airplane of 365 Days (Short ver.) / AKB48 [Official]

This work captivates with lyrics that stir the heart and a warm, comforting melody.

Comparing life to a paper airplane, it gently sings of the importance of continuing to take on challenges.

Released in October 2015 as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Asa ga Kita,” it garnered support across generations, including a performance by NMB48 at the 66th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen the following year.

It’s recommended for those about to take a new step forward or wishing to convey their feelings to someone special.

At karaoke, if everyone sings the chorus together, it will surely create a wonderful moment of heartfelt connection.

TOMORROWMayo Okamoto48rank/position

Mayo Okamoto “TOMORROW” Music Video

This song is packed with the charms of Mayo Okamoto as a singer-songwriter and has long been loved as a message song that delivers hope and courage.

It gently conveys the importance of believing in yourself and the bravery to take a step toward tomorrow—a timeless classic.

With calm piano tones and a warm, heartfelt vocal, it resonates deeply.

Since its 1995 release, it has moved many as the theme song for the drama “Second Chance” and was included on the album of the same name, “TOMORROW.” This work will surely give you a gentle push when you feel lost in life or are about to take a new step forward.

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki49rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “No Matter What” (Music Video) [3rd Single] (1991) Noriyuki Makihara/donnatokimo [No. 1]

With his overwhelming melodic sensibility, gentle singing voice, and lyrics that evoke deep empathy through skillful depictions of scenes and inner emotions, Noriyuki Makihara’s talent as a musician is universally acknowledged.

This work—one of his early major hits released in 1991, and a standard that continues to be loved despite the passage of time—has the power to quietly give us a nudge forward as we face the hardships and pain of everyday life.

Upholding the ideal of living true to oneself is very difficult, but this song feels like it offers hints for finding the strength to keep looking ahead, even as we waver.