Popular birthday songs: Japanese/J-POP artist ranking [2026]
Birthday-themed songs have long been one of the popular music genres.
Even recently, it’s common for popular artists to release birthday songs that become a hot topic.
This time, we’ll introduce a ranking of the most popular birthday songs.
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Japanese artists of birthday songs (1–10)
BirthdayAmuro Namie8rank/position
Namie Amuro, who retired from the entertainment industry in 2018, remains one of those artists whose popularity never fades even after stepping away.
Her song “Birthday,” included on the 2015 album _genic, is—just as the title suggests—a birthday song.
Although the lyrics are entirely in English, it’s an ultra-bouncy party tune.
Rather than celebrating a friend, the song is about celebrating your own birthday yourself—and getting everyone around you in on it, too! Its message is about a new self and taking a fresh step forward.
If you’re good at English, why not use this song to celebrate a friend who’s become a “new version” of themselves?
If only you were here so I could hold you.miwa9rank/position
This is a song like a letter to my beloved child who is turning one.
No matter what happens from now on, I’ll always be by your side… that’s what it means to be a parent, isn’t it? Along with words for my child, it feels like I’m reaffirming my own resolve and love as a new parent.
The journey from your birth to your first birthday surely wasn’t an easy one.
Even so, a child who shows us their growth every day is more precious than anything.
On this celebratory day, listen to this song and look back on the year you’ve walked together with your little one.
pupilaiko10rank/position
Singer-songwriter aiko, known for her colorful songs that express “love,” is beloved by a wide range of generations and has been active since the 1990s as a leading figure in the J-pop scene.
“Hitomi,” included on her 2006 album Kanojo, is a birthday song that gently watches over the growth of someone dear.
Its jazzy sound, which exudes a moody, mature vibe, matches beautifully with her soulful vocals.
Why not listen to this mellow track—with a touch of wistfulness—on a special day?
Japanese artists of birthday songs (11–20)
birthdayKumaki Anri11rank/position
Anri Kumaki is a singer-songwriter who has worked on numerous tie-in projects for dramas and films.
She’s known for her gentle, enveloping vocals.
Among her songs, the one that’s perfect for celebrations is “Birthday.” Its piano-centered, dramatic band sound resonates deeply.
The lyrics, which candidly express feelings for a loved one, can move you to tears.
Through her clear, transparent singing, you’ll feel both wistful and uplifted.
It’s a heartfelt song you’ll want to give to someone who’s been important to you—family, friends, or a romantic partner.
HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number12rank/position
Don’t birthdays feel a little bittersweet when you’ve got an unrequited crush? In moments like that, the music of back number, a three-piece rock band from Gunma Prefecture, gently keeps you company.
It’s a night spent longing to hear “Happy birthday” from the person you like.
The protagonist’s frustration—able to think of silly small talk, yet unable to say the one thing that matters—really tugs at your heart.
Released in February 2019 as their 20th single, this song also made waves as the theme for the TV drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love.” It’s perfect for those nights when you’d rather step away from the circle cheering “Happy birthday!” and sink into your feelings alone.
Or maybe you could sing it at karaoke and let them notice how you really feel…
that might just work!
HAPPY BIRTHDAYFUNKY MONKEY BABYS13rank/position
A heartwarming song with a birthday theme.
It features the warm lyrics and melody characteristic of FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, conveying a gentle tenderness that feels close to the listener’s heart.
Included on the album FUNKY MONKEY BABYS 4, released in December 2011, the song expresses gratitude to a special person celebrating their birthday.
Loved long after the group’s disbandment, it’s perfect as background music for celebratory posts on Instagram Stories or Reels.
Why not send this song with your feelings of celebration for your loved one’s birthday?
Birthday songSKELT 8 BAMBINO14rank/position
Birthday Song is a heartwarming birthday tune by SKELT 8 BAMBINO, filled with gratitude for being born and wishes for happiness to come.
Its lyrics, which sing of the meaning of your existence and the joy of living, gently wrap the heart of the person celebrating their birthday and bless their special day.
Released in November 2014 and included on the album A Bouquet for You of That Day, which brims with appreciation for someone special, this track is recommended for those who want to sincerely say “congratulations” on a loved one’s birthday, as well as for those who wish to learn to truly love themselves.