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

Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been Around Since Long Ago~My Little Lover22rank/position

My Little Lover "Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been There Since Long Ago~

This is MY LITTLE LOVER’s third single, released in August 1995, and their biggest hit, achieving million-seller status right after their debut.

It was also used as the opening theme for the NTV drama “Owaranai Natsu,” becoming a major talking point at the time.

From the distinctive guitar riff in the intro, the fresh sound and the poignant lyrics—depicting the pain and hope of a boy leaving a familiar place—are truly moving.

Akko’s translucent vocals blend perfectly with Takeshi Kobayashi’s catchy melody line.

In 2010, JUJU’s cover became a hit through a commercial, and the song continues to be loved across generations.

It’s the perfect track for when you want to bask in nostalgic memories of youth.

The Theory of HappinessShiina Ringo23rank/position

Sheena Ringo – The Theory of Happiness

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.

God of RomanceHirose Kōmi24rank/position

Kohmi Hirose / God of Romance

Singer-songwriter Kōmi Hirose, known for her high musicality and distinctive personality, is beloved by a wide range of generations.

Her third single, “Romance no Kamisama,” which became a massive hit as the theme song for the ski equipment store Alpen’s commercial, cemented her image as the “Queen of Winter.” The chorus features a suddenly soaring melody that makes the song challenging, but it’s still fun to power through it with friends of the same generation.

For women in their 40s, it’s a brisk, pop tune that will likely bring back memories of the era.

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Hoshino Takashi

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The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE25rank/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.

TouchIwasaki Yoshimi26rank/position

“Touch” Yoshimi Iwasaki High-Quality Audio Anime Theme Song 1985

This is the 20th single by singer Yoshimi Iwasaki, who has been studying business administration in the master’s program at J.F.

Oberlin University Graduate School since 2021.

It became a massive hit as the opening theme for the TV anime Touch, and those in their 40s—regardless of gender—likely remember it along with scenes from the show.

Because the tempo is fast and the melody features a sharp drop from high notes to low, it’s a good idea to check it once before performing it at karaoke.

Overall, the pitch range isn’t very wide, so it’s an anime song recommended even for those who aren’t confident at karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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cherrysupittsu27rank/position

Spitz / Cherry

A signature song by Spitz that sings of parting and new beginnings.

Released in April 1996, this single was a massive hit, selling over 1.613 million copies.

It depicts someone stepping forward into a hope-filled future while holding memories of a loved one close, and its refreshing yet slightly wistful melody feels like a pleasant spring breeze.

Many listeners may have been moved by the straightforward lyrics about feeling as if the mere sound of words of love could make you stronger.

The song is also included on the classic album Indigo Chiheisen, and in recent years it has been featured in NTT East’s commercials.

It’s sure to make the start of a new season even more wonderful.

wailing in griefKudō Shizuka28rank/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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