[40s] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation]
We present the latest top 100 rankings of Japanese music/J-POP for people in their 40s, showcasing the songs in order of most to least views! As life may be settling down for those in their 40s, are they seeking peace and comfort, or craving extraordinary excitement? What kinds of songs are being listened to most? The playlist is updated weekly.
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Artists Among People in Their 40s [2026]
- [40s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]
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- [50s] Popular Song Ranking by Generation [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Pop (J-Pop) Artists Among People in Their 50s [2026]
- [40s] Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers Ranking [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Band Songs Among People in Their 40s [2026]
- [2026 Edition] Karaoke Songs That Will Get the Crowd Going—Perfect for Women in Their 40s
- [2026 Edition] Youth Anthems for Your 40s! A Roundup of Popular Heart-Pounding × Heartwarming Songs
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[40s] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation] (21–30)
Tomorrow Never knowsMr.Children22rank/position
A song by Mr.Children, released in 1994, that changed the band’s destiny.
It portrays inner conflict and hope for the future, giving courage to everyone who listens.
It’s striking in the way it conveys the importance of finding your own path and moving forward with hope.
Its appeal lies in the powerful message of pressing on toward the future without yielding to any hardship.
Chosen as the theme song for “Wakamono no Subete,” it became their biggest hit single and had a major impact on the music scene of the time.
A masterpiece recommended for those struggling with worries or in need of courage.
The Theory of HappinessShiina Ringo23rank/position
Shiina Ringo’s song is one that deeply resonates with women in their 40s.
Released as her debut single in 1998, it was later included on the acclaimed album “Muzai Moratorium.” With melodies and lyrics that gently accompany the listener’s heart, it makes you realize that the very existence of the person you love is happiness itself.
This work reminds busy, grown women of the preciousness of love in its purest form.
Listening between work or housework will likely bring a sense of calm.
Rose of PassionTHE BLUE HEARTS24rank/position
A classic hit released by THE BLUE HEARTS in the 1990s.
The lyrics, themed around a passionate rose, express eternity, truth, and the inner conflicts of human beings.
Carrying a message to nurture the powerful emotions deep within our hearts, it has become a song that resonates with many.
Released in July 1990, it became the band’s first single to reach No.
1 on the Oricon charts.
It was also used as a TV drama theme song and has been loved across generations.
Its catchy chorus and Hiroto Kōmoto’s powerful vocals leave a strong impression, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at karaoke.
It’s perfect for moments like company parties or class reunions when you want to have fun while feeling a touch of nostalgia.
frecklesJUDY AND MARY25rank/position
A legendary four-piece rock band synonymous with the category of female-vocal rock bands, JUDY AND MARY’s ninth single.
Used as the opening theme for the TV anime Rurouni Kenshin -Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story-, the song’s lyrics and arrangement were deliberately crafted to be unrelated to the anime itself, which likely shocked many listeners at the time.
The cute vocals riding over the eccentric arrangement instantly take many in their forties—regardless of gender—back to their youth.
It’s a massive hit and the band’s only million-selling single.
FriendsREBECCA26rank/position
Rebecca, a band emblematic of the late ’80s.
Their popular song “Friends,” released in 1985 as their fourth single, is a rock number tinged with poignancy and is highly recommended for those who want to sing their hearts out with raw emotion.
The explosive, rousing chorus is the highlight, so open your mouth wide and project from your diaphragm.
It feels great for listeners too when someone goes all-in, regardless of how technically good they are! Let’s blow away everyone’s stress with a powerful singing voice!
The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE27rank/position
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.
Over DriveJUDY AND MARY28rank/position
It’s a classic song known for its exhilarating melody and bittersweet lyrics.
Released by JUDY AND MARY in June 1995, it reached No.
4 on the Oricon charts and became a major hit, selling over 600,000 copies.
The track is also included on the album “MIRACLE DIVING.” YUKI’s clear, translucent vocals and TAKUYA’s catchy guitar riffs blend perfectly, capturing the liberating spirit and sense of adventure of summer.
It’s ideal as background music for summer drives or when you want to liven things up at karaoke, and for those of that generation, it will surely bring back a wave of nostalgia and reignite those passionate feelings from back then.