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

MelodyTamaki Kōji85rank/position

Koji Tamaki “Melody” Live at Tokyo International Forum 1997/11/22

It’s a classic released in 1996 by Koji Tamaki, one of Japan’s most iconic singers.

Although it didn’t perform strongly in single sales, it remains a highly popular ballad.

Many musicians admire Tamaki, and this “Melody” has been covered by artists like Masayuki Suzuki and Takaya Kawasaki.

The lyrics vividly evoke hometown scenery and cherished memories, reminding you of pure, straightforward feelings.

While Tamaki often uses very simple expressions, his songs convey an indescribable depth.

Give it a listen when you want to remember what truly matters.

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KEI

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countrysideTamaki Kōji86rank/position

Koji Tamaki “Rural Landscape” (HD)

A heartwarming, soul-stirring masterpiece filled with encouragement for those burdened by fatigue and worries.

Drawing from his own experience overcoming mental instability, Koji Tamaki carefully portrays the inner cries that everyone carries.

Released in July 1996 as his 11th solo single, it was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Coach.” That same year, he made his first appearance at the 47th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, where his performance deeply moved viewers at the time.

Highly recommended for anyone feeling lost or anxious in life, or for those who want to encourage someone dear to them.

First LoveFukuyama Masaharu87rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – First Love (Full ver.)

A song by Masaharu Fukuyama released in 2009.

Although it’s in a minor key and has a darker tone, it also feels gentle and beautiful.

Fukuyama’s signature sultry, resonant vocals match it perfectly.

At first glance, the title might make you think it’s a song about first love, but reading the lyrics reveals that it’s a metaphor.

It portrays a man and woman who used to be lovers; now they each have someone important in their lives, yet they realize the person they truly love is still each other.

It’s a track overflowing with the ache of unfulfilled longing.

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Hane Keisuke

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HitomiFukuyama Masaharu88rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – Hitomi (Drama 'When Spring Comes' Inspire Movie) Theme Song for the Double-Starring Nao × Noritake Kinashi [Mondays 10 PM on Kansai TV/Fuji TV Network]

The lyrics, filled with compassion and warmth, resonate deeply.

Chosen as the theme song for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “When Spring Comes,” it was released digitally in February 2024.

The song gently speaks to the importance of sensing the unseen efforts and feelings within people.

It carries a profound message that reflects the drama’s themes of parent–child bonds and love.

It’s a recommended listen when you want to cherish your connections with others.

Wrapped in Fukuyama’s warm vocals, why not take a moment to feel the small joys of everyday life and your love for family?

Tomoë GakuenFukuyama Masaharu89rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – Tomoe Gakuen (Full ver.)

Tomoe Gakuen, released in 2017 as a digital-only single by Masaharu Fukuyama, has a somewhat striking title—and for good reason: it’s named directly after a real elementary school.

The song served as the theme for the drama Totto-chan!, which portrays Tetsuko Kuroyanagi’s roots, and its title is taken from Tomoe Gakuen, Kuroyanagi’s alma mater and the school attended by the drama’s protagonist.

The lyrics unfold like a calm recollection of memories that steadily draws you in—making it a deeply moving song.

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utatane

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aspiration; longing; ardent desireFukuyama Masaharu90rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – Wishful Longing (Inspire Movie for the film “If Only I Could Meet You Again at the Hill Where That Flower Blooms”) *NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen performance song

Masaharu Fukuyama’s song “Sōbō,” released on December 4, 2023, is a work that resonates deeply with the heart.

Created as the theme song for the film “At the End of the Flowering Hill, If I Could Meet You Again,” it has drawn much attention.

The lyrics, interweaving wishes for the future, memories of the past, and emotions of the present, are profoundly moving.

I’m once again struck by Fukuyama’s exceptional abilities in lyric writing, composition, and arrangement, as well as his deep understanding of human emotion.

While centered on the theme of lost love, the song remains compelling in the way it offers a message of hope and comfort.

It’s recommended for those burdened by something heavy or those who wish to believe in love again.

Tangerine-Colored Summer VacationFukuyama Masaharu91rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – Tangerine-Colored Summer Vacation (Fukuyama☆Great Summer Founding Festival, Inasayama)

This song by Masaharu Fukuyama, with its gentle acoustic guitar tones, awakens nostalgic memories of summer.

It was included on the album “f,” released in April 2001, and was re-recorded in 2015 as the theme song for the insect documentary film “Being Just Like Ants.” It depicts his own boyhood riding a train to his grandmother’s house, vividly conveying everything from the dazzling sunlight to the chorus of cicadas.

It’s a perfect track for those moments when you want to forget your busy daily life and immerse yourself in the sparkling summer vacations of your childhood.