Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Artists Among People in Their 40s [2026]

Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio92rank/position

Tamio Okuda “Easy★Rider” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

Tamio Okuda’s classic “Eiju★Rider.” While Okuda has many great songs, this one, in particular, condenses a very characteristic sound of his into a cohesive core.

The vocal range is somewhat on the higher side, but the span itself is quite narrow, from mid1 C# to mid2 G#.

If you set it to the right key, it’s a song most people can sing without trouble.

It’s best performed without overbelting, with a slightly languid, nonchalant feel.

Give it a try as a reference.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

I want to shout that I love you.BAAD93rank/position

"Slam Dunk Theme Song" vol. 2 BAAD - 'I Want to Shout That I Love You' sung by Kaname Kawabata (Short Ver.)

It’s a timeless masterpiece etched in my heart along with memories of my nostalgic youth.

Beginning with a fresh morning scene, it portrays the protagonist’s emotions as they waver between friendship and romantic feelings, conveyed through a passionate melody and powerful vocals.

A signature work by BAAD, it was released as a single in December 1993 and used as the first opening theme for the TV anime SLAM DUNK.

In March 2021, it won the Users’ Choice Award at the Heisei Anisong Grand Prize, and it continues to be loved across generations.

With lyrics that explore universal themes such as the frustrations of love and the courage to take a step forward, it’s perfect for moments when you want to indulge in sweet, bittersweet memories of romance.

Letter ~Dear You at Fifteen~Anjura Aki94rank/position

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” Music Video (HD)

Angela Aki’s moving ballad is a song inspired by a letter addressed to her younger self.

The gentle tone of the piano and her clear, transparent voice sink deep into the heart.

Released in September 2008, it was also selected as a required piece for NHK’s National School Music Competition.

It was featured in commercials for the Japan Post Group and captured the hearts of many.

This work serves as an encouragement to those struggling with anguish and uncertainty, giving them the courage to believe in themselves and move forward.

If you sing it at karaoke, it’s sure to resonate with listeners.

KanadeSukima Suichi95rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

Released in 2004, Sukima Switch’s second single is a gem of a ballad that portrays parting and growth.

The lyrics depict a protagonist whose view of the world was transformed by meeting someone special, trying to convey their feelings in voice at the very moment they must go their separate ways.

The powerful desire to stay connected at heart beyond physical distance truly resonates.

The song was featured as an insert track in the film “Rough” and served as the theme for Fuji TV’s drama “Sotsuuta.” In 2006, it was also chosen as the ending theme for the final day of “Netto Koshien,” becoming a memorable anthem symbolizing the end of summer and the farewells of youth.

It set an astonishing record by remaining on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 for 167 consecutive weeks.

It’s a number we especially recommend to those facing life’s milestones—such as graduation or a job transfer—or anyone who has experienced a long-distance relationship.

powder snowRemioromen96rank/position

Remioromen – Powder Snow

This is Remioromen’s eighth single, a song that paints a poignant and beautiful winter scene.

Used as an insert song for the TV drama “1 Litre of Tears,” it stands alongside “March 9th,” which was also featured in the show, as one of the band’s signature tracks.

Its sound, evoking snowy landscapes, and its deeply resonant lyrics delicately express the winter season, when people long for companionship.

With a memorable melody that stirs the heart, it is widely cherished as a classic winter song.

It’s also a karaoke staple, making it a track that both older and younger listeners can enjoy together.

Surely more than anyone else in the worldNagayama Miho & WANDS97rank/position

Surely more than anyone else in the world

It’s a very famous song and one of Miho Nakayama’s signature tracks.

I imagine many people sing it.

The collaboration with the rock band WANDS is also quite special.

The overall vocal range is F#3 to B4, and since the chorus uses the top note B4 quite often, it’s an easy key for those who are good with high notes.

If you feel it’s “too high” when singing, don’t force it—try lowering the key by one or two steps.

If you struggle with chest voice, adding clear accents in the high parts will help you produce sound more easily.

You can probably sense where the high sections are while singing, so try aiming for those spots and pronouncing them with an “ah” first.

Also, for syllables with the vowel “i,” pulling the mouth too wide will create tension.

Try to create space inside your mouth and be mindful not to overemphasize the “ee” sound.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kubota Mami

Report a problem

Tomorrow, when spring comesMatsu Takako98rank/position

Tomorrow, when spring comes

An impressive debut song by Takako Matsu, featuring a gentle voice that reflects on memories of youth.

The lyrics capture a fleeting moment with someone precious who shines in past memories, carrying feelings that never fade with time.

Released in March 1997 and used in NTT’s “Exciting New Life Campaign” commercial, the song became a hit, breaking into the top 10 of the Oricon charts.

In 2007, a 10th-anniversary version with new lyrics was produced and included on the album “Cherish You.” It’s a perfect track for quietly thinking of someone dear or for looking back on nostalgic memories as spring arrives.