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

meteorKobukuro36rank/position

Kobukuro – Ryūsei (Meteor)

This is Kobukuro’s 19th single, used as the theme song for the drama “Nagareboshi.” Even when far apart, even if they can’t be together forever, they can’t imagine living with anyone else.

The song portrays a poignant scene of gazing at the moon on a midwinter shore, enduring loneliness while holding a powerful bond close to the heart.

Released in November 2010, it debuted at No.

3 on the Oricon chart.

Capturing the hearts of many—winning the 26th Japan Gold Disc Award, among others—this slightly melancholic, sentimental track is a perfect fit for the winter season when we long for warmth.

the red threadKobukuro37rank/position

Akai Ito

A song that makes you feel like you’re reading a romance novel: “Akai Ito” (“Red Thread”).

Released by Kobukuro in 2008, this love song is also known for being covered by actress Yui Aragaki.

What’s great about the lyrics, I think, is how they convey what it truly means to “believe.” The bittersweet feelings of the male protagonist who keeps his distance from his girlfriend—who can’t forget her ex—and waits for her to choose him.

It’s enough to make you cry just listening, but there’s also the strength of a man who accepts even that pain and waits for the woman he loves.

No matter what happens, it’s a song that makes you want to believe in the person you love in just that way.

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sasashina

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YELL ~Support~Kobukuro38rank/position

YELL ~A Cheer~ / Kobukuro

YELL ~Eru~ is a song released as Kobukuro’s major-label debut single.

It’s often used at graduation ceremonies and other send-off occasions, but its positive lyrics also make it perfect for entrance ceremonies.

Even if you’re filled with anxiety when you start school, this number inspires the feeling that you’ll have grown significantly by the time you graduate.

Blue and gentleKobukuro39rank/position

Kobukuro – Blue and Gentle

It’s the theme song for the 2007 drama “Dream☆Again.” It’s striking that the title uses the kanji 蒼 for “ao” (blue).

The song seems to portray someone struggling as they consider giving up on their dream.

Fulfilling a dream is fun, but it can also be very tough.

When you stumble badly, you might feel like you can’t get back up—but the song teaches that it’s important not to give up.

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budKobukuro40rank/position

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

Kobukuro’s “Tsubomi” is an outstanding song not only for its wonderful lyrics, but also for the poignant, grand feel of its music video.

The world of the song awakens memories that had been dormant within me and makes me want to see the friends from back then—a masterpiece among masterpieces.

plateauSakanakushon41rank/position

Sakanaction / Plateau -Music Live Video-

Does anyone remember the Sante FX commercial “Yes, those eyes — Accompaniment,” where Ichiro Yamaguchi, the vocalist of Sakanaction, performed a solo rendition? Compared to other commercials, it was strikingly sensational and left a deep impression on many viewers.

The song featured in that ad is Plateau.

In its band arrangement, the track feels entirely different from the stripped-down image of the commercial’s solo performance.

The word “plateau” in the title refers to a state of stagnation, and reading the lyrics with that in mind reveals someone struggling to break through their current situation amid various inner conflicts.

For those in a similar place, this song might become a source of support.

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Hane Keisuke

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We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā42rank/position

I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.

This is a cheer song by Sambomaster that teaches the importance of believing in your potential without giving up.

With upbeat lyrics and an energetic rock sound, it delivers a ray of hope even when you feel like breaking.

It’s a warm track that stays close to the listener’s heart, giving courage and strength to move toward your goals.

Released in February 2010, it was featured in a Nissan Serena commercial.

In 2022, it was also used as an image song for the film Cheer☆Dan, touching the hearts of many.

It’s a must-hear for kids struggling with club activities or studies, people striving toward their dreams, and anyone who wants to cheer someone on.