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

single bedSha ran Q22rank/position

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)

This is the sixth single by Sharam Q, a rock band centered around Tsunku♂, who is now primarily active as a producer.

1994年10月にリリースされたこの曲は、日本テレビのアニメ『D・N・A² 何なんだ、この男！？』のエンディングテーマに起用され、バンド初のミリオンセラーとなった。

Many listeners may find that the protagonist’s realization of the true value of love—something once taken for granted—resonates even more deeply now, after accumulating various life experiences.

It’s a classic, laid-back rock ballad.

I don’t want to let go.T-BOLAN23rank/position

I Don’t Want to Let Go

The four-piece rock band T-BOLAN, which brightened the 1990s, released “Hanashitaku wa Nai” as their second single.

It was used as an insert song for the Fuji TV drama “Hotel Woman.” While it wasn’t a runaway hit, the sultry delivery and melody of the chorus linger in your memory, don’t they? Even though they weren’t a visual-kei band, they left an impression of having a certain allure, and the straightforward lyrics bring back memories of a time when human connections felt deeper.

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Don’t give upZARD24rank/position

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

ZARD is an indispensable presence in the Japanese music scene of the ’90s, and for many women in their 40s today, their songs undoubtedly evoke the soundtracks of youth.

The late Izumi Sakai’s clear vocals and heartfelt lyrics never lose their luster, and they’re still hugely popular at karaoke.

“Makenaide” is one of ZARD’s most famous songs, a true classic with nationwide acclaim.

While the pitch is slightly on the higher side, it’s generally average overall, and the melody is straightforward without large leaps in range, making it a good candidate for high karaoke scores.

Aim to articulate each word of the lyrics clearly, and sing the chorus with crisp, powerful delivery!

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KOH-1

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Summer Days of 1993class25rank/position

Summer Days of 1993

When it comes to early Heisei-era summer songs, many people now in their 40s will probably think of this track first.

As the title suggests, “Natsu no Hi no 1993,” released in 1993, was a massive hit by the male duo class, selling over a million copies.

Its melody line is set in a relatively low key, making it very easy to sing—even those who struggle with high notes can take it on without worry, and it seems promising for scoring high in karaoke.

If you’re confident in your singing, try recreating the harmonies and backing vocals with your friends!

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KOH-1

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The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE26rank/position

DREAMS COME TRUE – Future Prediction Map II ~VERSION '07~ (from Live from DWL 2015 Live Ver.)

Celebrated as a classic song depicting youthful romance, it continues to be loved by many.

Included on DREAMS COME TRUE’s album “LOVE GOES ON…” released in November 1989, this piece sings of a deep bond between lovers and unwavering affection.

A popular track used in films and commercials, it was also featured in 2007 as an insert song for the movie “The Man in the Future: The Sign of I Love You.” With lyrics that read like a diary, it deftly captures the feelings of someone in love, making it a song you’ll want to listen to with someone special.

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki27rank/position

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

A signature work by Noriyuki Makihara that delivers a universal message about living true to yourself, carried by a powerful yet gentle melody.

It’s a classic imbued with a strong resolve to value your true self, even while grappling with doubts and anxieties in life.

Also included on the album “Who Will You Share a Happy Yawn With?”, it became a massive hit, surpassing one million copies within six months of its June 1991 release.

It was chosen as the entrance march for the 64th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament in spring 1992.

The melody is marked by an acoustic guitar and a calm tempo, making it easy to sing.

It’s a song that resonates at life’s crossroads or when you feel you might lose yourself, and it’s cherished by many.

cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai28rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Sakuranbo

This is the second single by singer-songwriter Ai Otsuka, a sweet-and-sour portrayal of irreplaceable days spent with a lover.

Released in December 2003, it was featured as the opening theme for TBS’s “COUNT DOWN TV” and the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Mecha-Mecha Iketeru!”, making it a familiar tune in households across Japan.

Its sprightly arrangement incorporating brass instruments and an irresistibly bouncy pop melody leave a strong impression.

The lyrics look back on memories shared with a partner over two years, depicting a deep bond so strong that even quarrels and hardships feel precious.

The charming image of two lovers is likened to a pair of fruits nestled together.

The song has also been adopted as the departure melody at JR West’s Sakuranomiya Station, so you may hear it often with the arrival of spring.

It’s the perfect number for rekindling the thrill of new love or getting everyone pumped up at karaoke.