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

From the depths of the heart to the water planetMoriguchi Hiroko91rank/position

From the depths of the heart to the water planet

Singer Hiroko Moriguchi, known as a leading figure among the original “baradoru” (variety-idol) talents and still an indispensable presence on variety shows today.

Her debut single as an idol singer, “Mizu no Hoshi e Ai wo Komete,” was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam.

If a woman in her 40s sings it, it’s sure to hype up men of the same generation, so it’s a great pick for karaoke.

There’s also an arranged version included on the 2019 album GUNDAM SONG COVERS, making it a karaoke song that’s fun to compare across versions.

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Hoshino Takashi

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balladKetsumeishi92rank/position

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

While Ketsumeishi is known for many upbeat tracks with lots of hip-hop and rap elements, they actually have ballads too! Gentle melodies over piano and strings in the background… This side of Ketsumeishi is compelling to listen to, and it’s cool to sing as well! The full track runs close to seven minutes, so it’s on the longer side, but it’s highly recommended when you’re in the mood for something mellow.

Of course, there’s rap too, but the tempo is relaxed, making it easy to learn and groove to.

It seems like a song that would feel good to sing while moving your body broadly.

The chorus is a real showcase, so singing each phrase carefully helps you put emotion into it.

When you slip lightly into falsetto, the sense of poignancy really deepens.

The latter half of the chorus is a spot where it feels great to sing, so don’t hesitate—project your voice with confidence!

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Kubota Mami

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Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio93rank/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.

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Ryo

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I want to shout that I love you.BAAD94rank/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 Aki95rank/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.