Popular Japanese music. Latest rankings [2026]

NonfictionHirai Ken8rank/position

Ken Hirai “Nonfiction” MUSIC VIDEO

Based on the artist’s real experience of losing someone close, this medium-tempo ballad explores views on life and death and loneliness, and served as the theme song for the TBS drama “A Little Giant” in the April 2017 season.

Kenshi Hirai himself said it “cuts into the dark side of life,” and it’s a masterpiece that expresses an earnest questioning of death and a sense of loss.

The chorus is famous, so I think many people know the song.

The overall vocal range is C3–A4, and the falsetto in the chorus is especially distinctive; if you can’t hit that comfortably, the performance can feel underwhelming.

Rather than belting in chest voice, sing more strongly in falsetto.

Try placing a hand on the back of your head and imagine sending your voice in that direction as you sing.

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Kubota Mami

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somedaySaucy Dog9rank/position

Saucy Dog "Someday" MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a signature, bittersweet love ballad by Saucy Dog that makes you want to listen while gazing up at the winter night sky.

It vividly portrays lingering feelings for an ex and memories of happy days that will never return, tightening your chest a little more each time you hear it.

The track is included on their May 2017 mini-album “Country Road,” which became a springboard for their rise.

Based on vocalist Shinya Ishihara’s real experiences, its depictions bring the park setting to life and have resonated with many listeners.

It’s a cherished number for the band, also performed when they won the Grand Prix at an audition in December 2016.

In the season when you miss the warmth of another, it’s a song that will gently stay by your side on nights when you want to recall a past love and shed a few tears.

A Little Love SongMONGOL80010rank/position

A Little Love Song

When it comes to classic karaoke songs by MONGOL800, the band from Okinawa, it’s one everyone must have heard at least once.

It’s a love song that warms the heart, filled with gratitude for the everyday joys and love for the important people close to us.

This track was included on their album “MESSAGE,” released in September 2001.

It has been loved in many ways, such as being used as the ending theme for the TV anime Teasing Master Takagi-san, and even inspiring a film released in 2019.

Carried by a driving, exhilarating melody, its straightforward feelings are sure to instantly liven up the atmosphere if you sing it at a welcome party karaoke.

Get everyone to sing along and close the distance with your new friends!

KanadeSukima Suichi11rank/position

Sukima Switch: SUKIMASWITCH / Kanade: KANADE 100 Million Streams Commemoration!! ~The 15-Year Journey We Walked Together~

Kanae is a classic love song that has been sung across generations.

The musical duo Sukima Switch released it in 2004, and it’s known as one of their signature tracks.

The song portrays a farewell scene with a loved one and expresses emotions that deepen with age.

Many listeners may relate to the lyrics, which depict always thinking of the person you love, no matter where you are or what you’re doing.

Set to a relaxed band arrangement, it’s a ballad whose sound wraps up feelings of anxiety and loneliness.

Give it a listen—it’s a number that speaks to the hearts of those struggling with long-distance relationships or unrequited love.

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mutō

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Until I hold you in my arms.MIMI12rank/position

Until I Hold You Tight / feat. KAFU

This is a song with a gentle tone that soothes a tired heart.

Created by MIMI, it was released in February 2022.

The warm sound of the piano and KAFU’s soft vocals resonate deeply.

The lyrics are notable for their empathy toward those carrying loneliness and solitude, offering quiet companionship on nights spent alone.

It’s a recommended track for moments when you feel unsettled or wish someone were by your side.

Bunny GirlAKASAKI13rank/position

[AKASAKI] Bunny Girl (Lyric Video)

A song released in October 2024 by singer-songwriter AKASAKI, who was 18 at the time of its debut.

Its addictive melody blends the nostalgic feel of Showa-era pop with contemporary beats—you’ll find yourself humming along after just one listen.

The lyrics portray a protagonist who, while draped in the atmosphere of the night and seducing their partner, feels on the verge of losing their true self deep inside.

The gap between their earnest desire to be loved and their bold demeanor is truly heart-tugging.

With its rhythmic, catchy groove, it’s the perfect pick when you want to make a cool impression at karaoke.

365 daysMr.Children14rank/position

Mr.Children “365 Days” Mr.Children TOUR POPSAURUS 2012

A gem of a love song included on the 16th album “SENSE,” released in December 2010.

It portrays the bittersweet yet strong feeling of thinking about someone, and it also garnered attention as the theme song for NTT East and West commercials.

Spanning over five and a half minutes, it’s a grand, beautiful ballad full of love, and Sakurai’s signature long tones are wonderfully soothing to listen to.

The overall vocal range is A#2–C5, rising toward the chorus, with a distinctive long tone before the chorus and a raspy voice in the chorus itself.

Sing in a relaxed manner to avoid unnecessary tension.

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Kubota Mami

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