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

cherrysupittsu36rank/position

Spitz / Cherry

A gem-like love song whose gently enveloping, beautiful melody and pure words of love resonate in the heart.

The lyrics, filled with expectation and hope for the future, bring back memories with someone special and give you the courage to take a new step.

Released in April 1996, this signature song by Spitz topped the Oricon weekly chart and is also included on the album Indigo Chiheisen.

In 2019, it was featured in an NTT East Japan TV commercial, drawing renewed attention.

With its bright, refreshing melody and lyrics that stay close to the listener’s heart, the song’s tender, conversational singing style makes it a calming piece to enjoy.

Its relaxed tempo and comfortable vocal range make it easy for anyone to sing, so it’s also recommended for karaoke.

My RevolutionWatanabe Misato37rank/position

My Revolution – Misato Watanabe (Full)

People in their 40s probably feel a strong sense of familiarity with this as a generational hit song.

Misato Watanabe’s “My Revolution” still has lyrics that resonate today.

Its friendly, catchy melody is easy to sing and easy to listen to, so it’s sure to get everyone hyped! Belting out the chorus line “My Revolution” feels amazing and will boost your confidence for tomorrow! Definitely sing it when you go to karaoke with friends from the same generation!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

Report a problem

Be kind to othersTHE BLUE HEARTS38rank/position

THE BLUE HEARTS – Be Kind to People

THE BLUE HEARTS are a quintessential Japanese punk rock band—spot-on for men in their late 40s.

Among their songs, the one I especially recommend for men in their 40s because it’s easy to sing is Hito ni Yasashiku (“Be Kind to People”).

Popular as the theme song of a drama with the same title, it features a catchy punk rock melody that anyone can sing along to.

Since the song stays in the mid-range, it can easily become monotonous.

If you want to add more expression, don’t hesitate to throw in some shouts and sing it with a bold, masculine edge.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Don’t give upZARD39rank/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!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem

I can’t stay a daydreaming girlAikawa Nanase40rank/position

Nanase Aikawa / I Can’t Be a Dreaming Girl

When it comes to songs that made a powerful impact on the rock scene of the ’90s, many people might recall Nanase Aikawa’s debut single.

Produced by Tetsurō Oda, the track was created under the concept of “dark rock that isn’t upbeat,” and, paired with Aikawa’s distinctive vocals, it garnered significant attention.

Released in November 1995, the song was included the following year on the 1996 album Red, which debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon album chart.

It was also chosen as the ending theme for the Fuji TV drama V no Honō (“Flames of V”), winning support from a wide audience.

Portraying the feelings of a woman with a strong, independent spirit, this song is one that everyone pursuing their true self should hear.

A Midsummer Night’s DreamMatsutōya Yumi41rank/position

Fall in Love - Koibito ni Ochite by Akiko Kobayashi

With its exquisite key and tempo that suit a wide range of singers, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a fun, confidence-boosting song for karaoke-loving women in their 40s.

The sophisticated melody and lyrics by Yumi Matsutoya have been loved across generations, and when paired with the comfortable accompaniment, you’ll feel as if the karaoke room instantly transforms into a magical summer world.

Enjoy a wonderful moment with this song, which is upbeat yet composed, and cherished by a broad audience.

innocent worldMr.Children42rank/position

Mr.Children 「innocent world」 MUSIC VIDEO

Mr.

Children’s iconic song “innocent world,” which reigned at the center of 1990s J-pop, continues to be loved across generations for its moving message.

It’s a karaoke staple that still evokes fresh emotion every time you hear it.

With its exhilarating sound and comfortable vocals, singing it at karaoke is sure to brighten the atmosphere around you.

It’s a tune that not only appeals to a specific audience but is easy for a wide range of listeners to hum along to, leading many to reevaluate it as a memorable classic.

While some parts are not easy to sing, that challenge makes it all the more rewarding—so we hope you’ll give it a try at least once.