Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-Pop Artists Among High School Students [2026]

Silent majorityKeyakizaka4622rank/position

Keyakizaka46 'Silent Majority'

Keyakizaka46’s debut single, released in 2016.

“Silent Majority” refers to the quiet masses—the unspoken majority—meaning ordinary people who don’t actively voice their opinions.

The lyrics convey that if you don’t speak up yourself, nothing will be communicated to those around you, and the strong, message-driven nature of the song—distinct from typical idol music—became a hot topic.

It’s a powerful encouragement song that makes you feel, to live as your true self, don’t give up—stay true to your own will.

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hiyori

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OrangeSPYAIR23rank/position

SPYAIR “Orange” Music Video (Theme Song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie)

It became a massive hit as the theme song for the 2024 film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle.

The same track was also chosen as the theme song for TBS Television and BS-TBS’s Volleyball Nations League 2024, powerfully expressing the passion of young people who devote their youth to volleyball, and marking a revival of the long-standing collaboration between SPYAIR and Haikyu!!.

It’s a rock ballad characteristic of SPYAIR, with easy-to-catch pitches that help you score steadily in karaoke.

The melody is basically structured so you can sing each phrase carefully.

It builds toward the latter half, and the vocal melody changes slightly in the final chorus, so it’s a good idea to review that part thoroughly.

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Kubota Mami

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migratory bird[Alexandros]24rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

A signature number by [Alexandros], with a driving melody and piercing high-register vocals that stir the listener’s heart.

It was included on a single released in March 2015 and is also known as the theme song for the film “Ake Garasu (Akegarasu).” The lyrics, which depict striving single-mindedly toward dreams and goals like a bird spreading its wings and soaring into the sky, really resonate.

When your mock exam results aren’t great or you feel anxious because you can’t see what lies ahead, the song’s positive energy will give you a push forward.

It’s a track I want exam takers to keep as a good-luck charm—something to listen to when you want to believe in yourself and sprint all the way to the finish.

Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster25rank/position

Little Glee Monster 'Someday These Tears Will' Short Ver.

An uplifting anthem by Little Glee Monster, brimming with passion and powerful harmonies that stir the heart.

Created as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, this piece gives a push to all who are walking toward their dreams.

Included on the album “juice,” the song carries a message that the tears you’ve shed will one day turn into shining achievements.

When you want to get fired up before a match or for an important moment, listening to this track will fill you with courage and hope.

It’s a song that stays close to your heart and gives you tremendous strength.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu26rank/position

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

An enduring masterpiece by Yuzu, the folk duo that represents Japan.

It embraces all the pain and setbacks of the past, the days of effort piled up without running away, and makes you feel proud of who you are now.

That warm yet powerful message resonates deeply with anyone striving forward.

Released as a single in July 2004, it was used as the theme song for NHK’s broadcast of the Athens Olympics.

Many will remember it alongside the moving scene of the men’s gymnastics team winning gold for the first time in 28 years.

Give it a listen when your club activities aren’t yielding the results you want, or when exam pressure feels overwhelming.

You’ll find the courage to believe that none of your steps so far have been in vain—and to keep moving forward.

User ManualNishino Kana27rank/position

Kana Nishino “Torisetsu” MV Full

Kana Nishino’s “Torisetsu” is a unique love song that likens me, the person, to an instruction manual.

I felt it’s a song that seems like it existed before, yet didn’t! Aside from the chorus, it’s more spoken than sung, so even those who are tone-deaf can enjoy it without worrying much about the melody line.

However, because there are a lot of words, where you breathe and where you break the phrases is important.

It might be good to sing as if you’re actually talking to someone! If you sing with no expression, your vocal placement drops into your throat and becomes straining, so try raising your eyebrows and bringing your vocal placement up to eyebrow level.

Aim to sing as lightly as possible.

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Kubota Mami

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Dried flowersYuuri28rank/position

Yuuri – Dry Flower / THE FIRST TAKE

Released in 2020, Yuuri’s “Dry Flower” spread mainly through social media and became a long-running hit.

The song is a breakup ballad told from a woman’s perspective, and many listeners have probably shed tears because of it.

Yuuri’s vocals heighten the sense of heartbreak and really tug at your heartstrings.

It might be a bit challenging to sing perfectly at karaoke, but try adjusting the key and give it a go.

Since it’s from a woman’s point of view, it’s great for women to sing as well.

It’s a song that everyone will naturally find themselves humming.

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utatane

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