Ranking of Male J-Pop Singers’ Best-Lyric and Most Popular Songs [2026]

It was all you.Yamazaki Masayoshi64rank/position

Masayoshi Yamazaki – Zenbu Kimidatta

This song by Masayoshi Yamazaki, which portrays a heartrending love, delicately expresses passing seasons, memories, and a love that has been lost.

Sounds like the rain and the cold light of morning are depicted as elements that evoke a former lover, emphasizing deep affection and the melancholy of a love gone by.

Released in March 2003, the work is Yamazaki’s 14th single and his first original single in about two years.

The first-press limited edition included a DVD with bonus footage, marking his first release to come with a DVD.

Celebrated as a masterpiece that resonates with those in love, it’s also perfect as wedding background music or as a message to someone special.

No matter what I do, it’s no good.Okazaki Taiiku65rank/position

Okazaki Taiiku “Nothing I Do Works” Music Video

A song by the musician OKAMURA Taiiku, who’s known for his distinctive sense of humor.

This track, too, blends his signature humor, yet if you really listen to the lyrics, there’s something mysteriously moving about it.

The words, which can come across as a kind of bold defiance, feel refreshing, and even the surreal music video gives you a little boost when you watch it.

Also, the chorus makes it feel like it’s telling you, “If you give up, that’s where it ends!!,” which makes me think, “Alright, I can push a little harder!!”

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Hane Keisuke

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breakup songOkazaki Taiiku66rank/position

Okazaki Taiiku “Heartbreak Song” Music Video

A song by Okazaki Taiiku that portrays the pain of heartbreak and the journey to recovery.

Hearing lyrics that mention many memorable places brings back vivid images of the happy times with a former lover.

Yet the line about those memories “burning down” conveys the harshness of a breakup.

While it encourages self-motivation and moving forward, its humor-filled depiction of heartbreak might even make you chuckle.

Included on the EP “Suplex,” released in March 2024, this track both empathizes with those who’ve had their hearts broken and gives them the courage to take their next step.

homeKiyama Yusaku67rank/position

Yusaku Kiyama - Home

This is the biggest hit by Yusaku Kiyama, an artist known for ballads delivered with a captivating, soaring high-tone voice that draws in many listeners.

It’s a ballad that expresses a powerful resolve to always protect the place one returns to, a masterpiece that soothes the hearts of those who are struggling.

In the Great Sky and on the Vast EarthMatsuyama Chiharu68rank/position

In the Great Sky and on the Vast Earth

Set against the majestic nature of Hokkaido, this gem of a masterpiece sings of a powerful way of life.

Its lyrics, which stress the importance of continuing to look forward even while facing the setbacks and hardships everyone experiences at least once, are filled with the unique depth of insight and warmth characteristic of Chiharu Matsuyama.

Especially in moments when your heart feels like it might break, the song embodies the will to seize happiness with your own hands, gently giving listeners a reassuring push forward.

Included on the June 1977 album “Kimi no Tame ni Tsukutta Uta” (A Song Made for You), it was later featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “The Ugly Duckling” and used in a Snow Brand Milk Products commercial.

This is a song to hear when you stand at a crossroads in life or are about to take a new step.

Matsuyama’s clear, pure voice will surely kindle a light of courage and hope in your heart.

Voice of the SeaKiritani Kenta69rank/position

"The Voice of the Sea" Full ver. / Urashima Taro (Kenta Kiritani) [Official]

This song skyrocketed in popularity after being featured in the au commercial.

The sight of Kenta Kiritani, playing Urashima Taro, strumming the sanshin from behind, along with the sound of the waves on the beach, stirs a sense of melancholy.

While the commercial itself leaves a comedic impression, the song is genuinely moving and tear-jerking.

The lyrics, written as if hurling one’s feelings at the sea, sky, wind, and the grandeur of nature, make it a masterpiece that perfectly matches the refreshing summer scenery.

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Murakami Shinpei

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A Letter to YouKuwata Keisuke70rank/position

Keisuke Kuwata – A Letter to You (Full ver.)

A heartwarming love song delivered by Keisuke Kuwata.

It was selected as the theme song for the film “Gold Medal Man” and as the CM song for WOWOW’s 25th anniversary.

Released in November 2016, it debuted at No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

Portrayed as an anthem for people who strive to move forward despite setbacks and sorrow, the song conveys deep affection and encouragement to everyone who shares life’s joys and hardships, resonating with listeners across generations.

Why not give it a listen as a track that adds color to moments with someone special?