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

SaudadePorunogurafiti22rank/position

Pornograffitti “Saudade” MUSIC VIDEO

Among people in their early 40s, Porno Graffitti could be considered a very popular music group.

Many might associate them with a high-pitched vocal image, but surprisingly, their songs tend to have a relatively narrow vocal range.

One of their most popular tracks, Saudade, is also set within a fairly limited range of mid2B to mid2G#.

Because it features many slightly rapid phrases, it’s a good idea to plan your breathing carefully between lines.

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Ryo

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wailing in griefKudō Shizuka23rank/position

Shizuka Kudo / Doukoku [Official Video]

Among Shizuka Kudo’s discography, which has produced numerous hit songs since her solo debut in the late 1980s, the best-selling is Dokoku, released in 1993.

It’s a masterpiece with lyrics by Miyuki Nakajima and music by Tsugutoshi Goto, and many women in their 40s today likely have this song in their karaoke repertoire.

The song is set in a relatively low key for a female vocal, making it a great choice for women with lower voices who struggle with high notes.

Kudo’s characteristic, sultry vibrato is applied naturally, yet the difficulty level is modest, with a very memorable and easy-to-sing melody line.

It’s also recommended for those aiming for high scores at karaoke.

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KOH-1

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I don’t want to let go.T-BOLAN24rank/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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miyabi

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single bedSha ran Q25rank/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.

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.

Don’t give upZARD27rank/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 1993class28rank/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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