[40s] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation]

I’m glad I met you.Koizumi Kyoko64rank/position

Kyoko Koizumi – I'm Glad I Met You (Official Video)

Kyoko Koizumi’s classic song “I’m Glad I Met You.” Although Kyoko Koizumi has solid vocal ability, she actually has a narrow vocal range, and most of her songs don’t feature long high notes.

Among her tracks, this one is especially recommended.

The key changes in the chorus, but just as the energy rises, the melody drops in pitch, making it a comfortable vocal line for women with lower voices or those who struggle with high notes.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

Winter, againGLAY65rank/position

GLAY / Winter, again

A song whose intro and lyrics evoke Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes, captivating many listeners.

It’s GLAY’s 16th single and was used as the campaign song for JR East’s “JR SKI SKI.” Widely loved as a track that heralds the arrival of winter, it’s also perfect as entertainment for seasonal events like year-end and New Year parties.

This rock number truly shines when heard in the cold season, and was written and composed by TAKURO with the desire to share the scenery of his hometown.

Released in 1999, this work holds a special place in GLAY’s discography.

HELLOFukuyama Masaharu66rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – HELLO (Full ver.)

The song “HELLO,” distinguished by its acoustic guitar, is a hit released by Masaharu Fukuyama in the 1990s.

It also gained popularity as a TV drama theme song, and its appeal can be summed up in its pleasant melodic line.

Brimming with positive energy, the lyrics carry a power that moves many people.

Loved by a wide range of ages, this track is also recommended as a karaoke staple.

It’s easy to sing, and its melody—something everyone hums at least once—has a timeless, universal charm.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo67rank/position

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

This song, which sings of prayers for peace and the preciousness of love, is characterized by heartfelt lyrics and a gentle melody.

Released in February 2004, it remained on the Oricon charts for over 136 weeks, becoming a popular hit.

It was also used for Nippon TV’s “Tuesday Suspense Theater” and in commercials, reaching many listeners.

It has long been a favorite in karaoke and is known as one of the most-sung songs of the Heisei era.

With its soft vocals and approachable melody line, it’s a song that even karaoke beginners can sing with confidence.

Why not sing it with your feelings for someone special in mind?

PRIDEImai Miki68rank/position

Miki Imai - 'PRIDE' Music Video

A heartfelt love song that Tomoyasu Hotei wrote for Miki Imai.

It’s said to be a track that symbolizes the bond of the two, who later became husband and wife.

It was also used as the theme song for the drama “Doc.” The vocal range is F3 to C#5, and while there are some slightly higher parts, the relaxed tempo makes it easy to sing in chest voice.

It’s more of a spoken-style song, so it’s best to sing lightly without forcing it.

Keep your facial muscles lifted and your throat open at all times.

If you open your mouth, you’ll notice the soft palate at the back of your throat.

Try to open that area and let your breath flow steadily—this will help you produce sound with ease.

Also, placing the voice as you sing can create a gentle atmosphere, which might work nicely.

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Kubota Mami

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366 daysHY69rank/position

HY – 366 Days (Official Music Video)

An evocative ballad that poignantly portrays the pain of heartbreak and lingering attachment.

The piano melody and soul-stirring vocals convey the agony of days spent unable to forget a former lover.

Released in 2008 and included on the album “HeartY,” the song drew attention as the theme for Fuji TV’s drama and film “Akai Ito” that same year.

Filled with the charm of artists who cherish Okinawan culture while winning the hearts of music fans across Japan, this track is sure to leave a deep impression when sung at karaoke with someone special.

OH MY LITTLE GIRLOzaki Yutaka70rank/position

Yutaka Ozaki – Oh My Little Girl

This is the 14th single by singer-songwriter Yutaka Ozaki, who commanded immense popularity with powerful messages that spoke for the youth and overwhelming charisma, yet tragically passed away at the young age of 26.

A ballad that secured numerous tie-ins with dramas and films and became a million seller.

Its lyrics, which make you feel you are loved wholeheartedly and sincerely, are likely to resonate deeply with women in their 40s.

Influenced by many cover versions by various musicians, this gem of a love song is cherished by a wide range of listeners.

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Hoshino Takashi

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