Popular birthday songs: Japanese/J-POP artist ranking [2026]

Birthdaysadamasashi81rank/position

Birth Day / Tsurube’s Cheers to Families Theme # Masashi Sada

The song that teaches us how wonderful it is to celebrate a birthday is “Birth Day.” It was released in 1997 by Masashi Sada, a singer-songwriter who is also active as a novelist and film director.

Some of you may know it as the theme song for the NHK program “Tsurube’s Family Cheers.” Its gentle, pastoral soundscape resonates deeply.

The lyrics, which express gratitude to those who celebrate your birthday, also convey warmth.

It’s a piece you can gift to someone special—or enjoy quietly on your own birthday.

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Someone’s birthday again todayKirinji82rank/position

Someone's birthday again today

Crafted by Kirinji, known for their urban, sophisticated sound, this is a gem of a birthday song.

Included on their March 2008 album “7-seven-,” the track originally came to life as part of a 2007 project.

Its warm message—wishing that on their birthday, at least, everyone can be happy—truly resonates.

Stylish, starry-night soundscapes and gentle vocals add sparkle to a special day.

Though the world holds its share of bittersweet moments, the theme of making the night of celebration the best time gently sinks into an adult heart.

It’s a perfect number for a calm, intimate celebration with someone dear.

From here on, OndoŌizumi Itsurō83rank/position

From here on, Ondo

Itsuro Oizumi, who sang about his own grandchild in the song “Mago,” released it in 1999 and made it a huge hit.

In fact, “Mago” was Oizumi’s debut single.

His wonderfully celebratory number “Korekara Ondo” carries the same spirit: with lyrics that say, “Kiju, Beiju, and of course Hakuju are just milestones in life—no matter how old you are, your life is still ahead of you,” it’s a sentiment many can relate to.

The call-and-response “Ah, sore-sore!” is great fun too—don’t forget it when you sing karaoke.

All in all, it’s an essential track for celebrating Beiju and longevity.

HAPPY BIRTHDAYYUKA84rank/position

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY” is a birthday song characterized by its warm melody and lyrics.

It colors the birthday scene with care for someone and shared joy, surely filling that special day with an even more celebratory atmosphere.

The lyrics, which gently accept the passing years, resonate with listeners’ hearts.

It’s the perfect track as background music for spending a relaxed time that will leave lasting birthday memories.

A verse filled with love and nostalgia will deeply touch the recipient’s heart, making it a highly recommended gift.

BIRTHDAYAnne-Marie85rank/position

Anne-Marie – BIRTHDAY [Official Video]

If you want to fully enjoy your birthday while feeling like a princess, Anne-Marie’s song might be just the thing.

Released in February 2020, the track was later included as a bonus track on the Japanese edition of her album “Therapy.” Known for often singing about exes in the past, she created this shimmering, happy pop tune with the desire to “sing about happiness.” It delivers a powerful, self-affirming message: on your birthday, be as selfish as you like and do everything you want! Use it for a YouTube Short showing you and your friends partying in glamorous, music-video-worthy outfits, and you’re sure to make the day unforgettable.

It’s the perfect BGM for a special day when you want to indulge yourself to the fullest.