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

From your momHatsuda Etsuko22rank/position

Etsuko Hatsuda 'From Your Mom' Solo Performance – Daughter! Happy 12th Birthday!

“From Your Mama” is Etsuko Hatsuta’s debut single, released in 2009.

It’s a song in which a mother’s love for her child is conveyed through gentle music and straightforward lyrics.

Hatsuta, a mother of two herself, writes of the swelling affection during pregnancy, the stumbles and regrets of inexperienced parenting, and the way she grows stronger little by little, coming to love her child from the bottom of her heart.

A baby’s first year—turning one—is truly special.

As you look back on this past year, let this song help you reaffirm your love for your child.

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sasashina

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Only the number of starsMayumiinu23rank/position

Only as many as the stars – by Mayumiinu

Sung by Mayumiinu, a singer who has worked on numerous commercial jingles, this song is perfect for conveying a mother’s feelings of “Thank you for being born” to her child.

If it sounds familiar, that’s because it was used in a Moony commercial! The lyrics overflow with love from start to finish, and as you listen, you’ll likely find your own child even more precious.

For a first birthday, the scenes of mother and baby depicted in the lyrics may resonate especially well.

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Hane Keisuke

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BirthNakajima Miyuki24rank/position

Miyuki Nakajima “Birth” / Uotaka Michiru

Here’s a birthday song especially recommended for those leading busy lives or going through a rough patch: Miyuki Nakajima’s “Tanjou” (“Birth”).

Released in 1992 as her first double A-side single along with “Maybe,” it was even included in school textbooks.

There are times when the hardships that befall us leave us unsure of who we are.

In moments like that, the song’s message—“Thank you for being born”—really hits home.

It’s a moving birthday song with the power to soften feelings of despair and the pain of hitting a wall.

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KEI

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Birthday Songyuka25rank/position

Yuka “Birthday Song” Music Video

It’s one of Yuka’s signature celebration songs and a popular choice for birthday movie BGM! Within the birthday wishes, the song carries a warm message that affirms one’s very existence: “Thank you for being born.” It was originally included on the album “I am,” released in May 2020, and a newly arranged version came out in February 2022.

This was planned as the first installment of a three-month consecutive release.

It’s a perfect song not only for lovers and friends, but also for cherished family members.

How about gifting your “congratulations” by setting it to this gentle melody?

Tears SurpriseAKB4826rank/position

[MV full] Namida Surprise! / AKB48 [Official]

If you’re planning a surprise birthday party, make sure to use this song as the BGM! It’s a track by the beloved national idol group AKB48, released in June 2009 as their 12th single.

Set in a classroom, the heartwarming theme centers on friends working together to celebrate a birthday with a surprise.

The moment the synth brass and handclaps burst in during the intro, the party has already begun! You can practically see the look of surprise as the guest of honor appears, and the tears of joy that follow.

Use it to help create a once-in-a-lifetime memory as everyone celebrates a dear friend’s birthday together!

BIRTHDAYOku Hanako27rank/position

Okuno Hanako_Birthday (with lyrics)_Piano accompaniment

Oku Hanako’s “Birthday” is a song that celebrates birthdays while also conveying gratitude and encouragement.

It’s included on her 2009 album “BIRTHDAY.” With its bouncy, bright pop melody, it’s perfect for everyone to sing together at a friend’s birthday party.

The lyrics express appreciation for the miracle of meeting and being able to share such a joyful moment, as well as the heartfelt message: I’ll always be by your side—keep doing your best.

How about giving it to a friend who’s always working hard at their job, studies, and everything else?

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SAKI

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BatonKobukuro28rank/position

Kobukuro “Baton” Image Movie

Kobukuro’s “Baton” is a song that beautifully portrays the connection of life.

Its warm melody and heartfelt lyrics make it perfect for celebrating a child turning one.

The line “Someday, you too will have a time to pass it on to someone” conveys a love that flows from parent to child and into the future.

Released in April 2018, the song was also used in an Ono Pharmaceutical commercial.

Playing it as background music at a birthday party or in a video can make this important first milestone even more memorable.

Why not listen together as a family and let your thoughts turn to the future ahead?