Popular Japanese music. Latest rankings [2026]

Maplesupittsu86rank/position

Spitz / Kaede

As a ballad portraying a farewell with a loved one, this masterpiece has continued to resonate closely with many hearts.

It is the 19th single by the Japanese rock band Spitz, and when it was released in July 1998, it was a double A-side with its coupling track.

The song has also been used as an insert track in Fuji TV dramas Over Time and, in 2022, Silent.

Released as a single cut from the album Fake Fur, the piece features lyrics where a sense of loss intertwines with the will to move forward, carried by an ensemble of piano and acoustic guitar.

Masamune Kusano’s clear, translucent vocals further enhance the poignant melody.

When covering it in a solo voice-and-guitar arrangement, focusing on a progression from quiet arpeggios in the first verse to strong strumming in the chorus will help convey the song’s dramatic worldview.

threadNakajima Miyuki87rank/position

thread

It’s a classic song that likens the ties between people to a woven textile, portraying the warmth of living while supporting one another.

Its profound message—that the mystery of encounters and even painful experiences will someday transform into the power to embrace someone—gently resonates in the listener’s heart.

This song by Miyuki Nakajima is included on the celebrated album “EAST ASIA,” released in October 1992.

It later became widely known when it was used as the theme song for the 1998 TV drama “Seija no Koshin” (March of the Saints).

It has enjoyed enduring support, including a film released in 2020 that was inspired by the piece.

It’s especially recommended for Mother’s Day, when feelings of gratitude toward parents abound, to listen to together with older adults and savor its content.

SaudadePorunogurafiti88rank/position

Pornograffitti “Saudade” MUSIC VIDEO

One of Porno Graffitti’s signature songs, this classic captures the pain of heartbreak and a sense of nostalgia within a Latin-style melody.

“Saudade” is a Portuguese word that means “longing or nostalgia for something lost.” The overall vocal range is surprisingly narrow, from B3 to G#4.

However, the key modulates in the final chorus and the pitch rises, and the tempo is fast, so be careful not to fall behind the rhythm.

Did you know that when vocalist Okano sings, he raises his eyebrows? I definitely recommend copying this! Especially for high notes, lifting your eyebrows makes it easier to hit the pitch and produce a solid tone.

If you raise your eyebrows right when the melody changes, it helps you land the notes smoothly, so I highly recommend it!

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Kubota Mami

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StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE89rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – StaRt

A captivating track featuring a bright pop-rock sound filled with positivity and confidence.

Released by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE in July 2015, this song is packed with youthful, energetic sound and a message brimming with hope.

Its exhilarating guitar riffs and catchy melodies encourage the pursuit of happiness and the courage to take new steps forward.

Chosen for Kao Merit’s commercial and as the theme song for Fuji TV’s show “Cho Hamaru! Bakusho Chara Parade,” it captured the hearts of many listeners.

It’s an uplifting anthem perfect for moments when you want to reflect on yourself or resolve to take on a new challenge.

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism90rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Fate [Official Video]

Every high school ballplayer aims for the same place.

This number by Official HIGE DANDism powerfully sings of the hunger for victory and the weight they carry on their shoulders.

It was used in 2019 as the ABC Summer High School Baseball Cheer Song and as the theme for “Netto Koshien.” Released as a single in 2019, it was later included on the acclaimed album “Traveler.” During production, the members actually attended the Spring Senbatsu at Koshien, channeling the on-site excitement directly into the song.

The bold brass tones leave a strong impression, conveying the energy of the stands in vivid detail.

Perfect for heightening pre-game tension or giving a push to anyone taking on a challenge, this track captures a gritty yet beautiful moment of youth—an ideal song for those who want to feel that fleeting instant.