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

MiracleGReeeeN43rank/position

GReeeeN – Kiseki

A warm, heartfelt song that directly expresses gratitude and love for someone special.

Released in May 2008 as the theme song for the TBS drama “ROOKIES,” this track has a strong connection to the world of baseball, having been used for high school baseball entrance marches and as walk-up music for professional players.

Its sincere message pledging love that endures over time, combined with an upbeat yet emotionally rich melody, creates a harmony that gently envelops listeners’ hearts.

The sentiment of celebrating a meeting as a “miracle” and treasuring the days walked together as a “trace of our journey” is sure to resonate with everyone.

Everyone’s Happy BirthdayAshida Mana44rank/position

Minna No Happy Birthday

This is a heartwarming song that cherishes connections between people and celebrates the preciousness of life.

As it introduces the twelve zodiac signs in order, it gently conveys that everyone has a day when they can be the star.

Filled with gratitude for family and an appreciation for the small joys of everyday life, it resonates with listeners.

Released in November 2011, the song was used as a theme and ending song for the anime series Jewelpet.

It’s perfect not only for birthday celebrations but also for expressing thanks to someone special.

Mana Ashida’s pure, clear voice enhances the song’s charm even further.

Birthday SongOchiai Wataru45rank/position

Wataru Ochiai – Birthday Song (Music Video)

This is a warm, celebratory song by Wataru Ochiai, an artist who delivers lyrics that speak straight to the heart.

Set to a gentle acoustic sound, the track reminds us that the presence of someone by our side is the greatest gift of all.

Its unadorned, straightforward words have the power to convey feelings to anyone.

Released in October 2019, it even topped the J-pop charts in Vietnam—no surprise that it’s loved across borders.

It’s perfect for giving to someone special—friends, family, or anyone dear—on their special day as a token of gratitude.

It also makes a wonderful BGM choice for a surprise video, sure to create a moving moment.

day by dayYoshida Yamada46rank/position

Hibi / Yoshida Yamada [MUSIC VIDEO]

A song by YoshidaYamada that carefully depicts special moments found in everyday life.

Through the daily lives of an elderly couple, it gently embraces a range of emotions—joy and sorrow, love and parting.

Broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” from December 2013 to January 2014, the piece sparked a strong response, with many on social media and by word of mouth calling it “a tearjerker” and “moving,” leading to multiple rebroadcasts.

It’s a perfect song to listen to when you want to reflect on cherished memories at life’s milestones or to celebrate longevity.

To youkurisu haato47rank/position

Chris Hart – To You

When it comes to the perfect song for a first birthday party, Chris Hart’s piece is the one.

Its warm vocals and heartfelt lyrics are truly captivating.

It beautifully conveys gratitude toward loved ones and the joy of discovering the meaning of life.

Released in 2015, the song was also used as the theme for the drama “The Strongest Duo: Kyoto Prefectural Police Special Investigation Unit.” On this special day celebrating your child’s growth, it’s a song the whole family can listen to together and share the emotion.

It will surely become a wonderful memory.

My beloved treasuretsuji ayano48rank/position

Ayano Tsuji “Beloved Treasure” Original Animated Movie

Created after Ayano Tsuji became a mother, this song is filled with deep love and gratitude for her baby.

Carried by gentle ukulele tones, the words “Thank you for being born” are repeated, celebrating the joy of accumulating all the “first” experiences with a child.

Released digitally in June 2018, the song was also chosen as the official theme for KTS Kagoshima TV’s “Smile Baby Project.” It’s a perfect track for parents whose child is turning one, and is also recommended for commemorative videos or as background music for birthday parties.

Happy happy birthdayMayo Okamoto49rank/position

Hapi Hapi Birthday / Happy Birthday - Okamoto Mayo

Mayu Okamoto’s “Hapi Hapi Birthday” is the perfect song for a child’s first birthday party.

Its gentle vocals and heartwarming melody celebrate your child’s birth and let the whole family share in the joy.

The lyrics, filled with love and gratitude for someone special, will resonate with parents as well.

Since it’s a familiar song that aired on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” it’s also recommended as background music for a commemorative video, or to play during entrances and exits at the party.

With wishes for your child’s growth, let’s all sing “Happy Birthday” together!