[40s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]

Winter,againGLAY64rank/position

GLAY / Winter, again

GLAY’s “Winter, again” was released in 1999 as their 16th single, and it’s a signature song for the band that’s cherished as a winter classic.

Its structure is striking, moving from a poignant mood that evokes the chill of winter to a gradual build in intensity toward the chorus, conveying a sense of strength to get through the season.

The song was used in JR East’s “JR SKI SKI” commercials, which was one of the factors that helped it become a well-known winter staple.

Because it overlaps so well with the feelings of winter’s cold and the sparkle of snow, it vividly highlights the excitement of heading into snowy landscapes.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

kappamaki

Report a problem

I’m glad I met you.Koizumi Kyoko65rank/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.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo66rank/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 Miki67rank/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.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kubota Mami

Report a problem

HELLOFukuyama Masaharu68rank/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.

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.

Swaying feelingsZARD70rank/position

“Shaking Feelings” Music Video

This is a commercial that reminds us of the greatness of music through a scene of a mother and daughter tidying up their home.

In the middle of cleaning, the woman playing the mother finds an old MiniDisc stereo and a stack of MDs she used to use.

As she picks one up and gazes at it nostalgically, the woman playing the daughter searches for the song on Spotify and starts playing it.

Seeing her mother close her eyes the moment the intro starts and listen intently, the daughter simply says, “Nice.” Many viewers probably felt a tug at the heartstrings witnessing a timeless classic transcend generations.

By the way, the song is ZARD’s “Yureru Omoi” (“Shaking Heart”), one of ZARD’s signature tracks released in 1993.

Its distinctly ’90s, accessible melody and Izumi Sakai’s clear, beautiful vocals are utterly captivating.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem