Popular Japanese music. Latest rankings [2026]

Exploding Brain Girlrereriri15rank/position

Brain Fluid Explosion Girl – rerulili feat. Hatsune Miku & GUMI

Known as one of rerulili’s signature songs, this track was released on Niconico in October 2012 and quickly became a massive hit.

It’s characterized by a barrage of rapid-fire words and lyrics that feel like they slam the information-saturated atmosphere of modern times straight at you.

The high-energy, aggressive arrangement delivers a powerful impact that seems to flood the listener’s thoughts.

Later included on the album of the same name, “Nou Shou Sakuretsu Girl,” it sparked a major movement, spawning a novel, a comic, and even a live-action film in 2015.

It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser—nail it at karaoke and you’re guaranteed to bring the house down.

I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci16rank/position

wacci “I Became Someone Else’s Girlfriend” Music Video

This is a song that captures a woman’s complex feelings: while she speaks of her current partner’s kindness, she can’t help but recall the comfort of the days spent with her ex.

It’s a track released in August 2018 by the pop band wacci, known for crafting music that sits close to everyday life, and it’s also included on the album “Gunjou Refrain.” The lyrics, written by vocalist Yohei Hashiguchi based on a female friend’s story, contrast the perfection of a new partner with lingering feelings for an ex, tightening the listener’s chest.

In June 2021, it surpassed 100 million streams, cementing its status as a long‑loved classic.

After a springtime parting, when forcing yourself to look ahead leaves your heart tired, this song might gently stay by your side.

LemonYonezu Kenshi17rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

When you think of Kenshi Yonezu’s biggest hit song, many people probably think of “Lemon.” While the song fully emphasizes a sense of longing, it surprisingly features many sections where the voice is projected powerfully.

Among them, the part that especially demands sustain is just before the first falsetto in the chorus.

Although it’s a high register right on the verge of head voice, it’s sung with an emphasis on sound pressure, making it perfect for showcasing vocal sustain.

As for long tones, there aren’t any particularly conspicuous spots, but you sing a fairly long stretch from the section I mentioned up to the falsetto without any rests, so it can definitely serve as a good practice piece for long tones.

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Ryo

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HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number18rank/position

back number – HAPPY BIRTHDAY (full)

This song is by back number, a rock band known for releasing many classic bittersweet love songs.

It was released in 2019 as their 20th single and served as the theme song for the drama A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love.

While the title might make you think it’s a celebratory track, it’s actually a poignant number depicting a man spending his birthday alone, nursing an unrequited love.

It tenderly conveys the aching feeling of waiting to hear “happy birthday” from the person he likes.

Rather than a song to give to someone else, it feels like a track that gently stays by the side of your lovesick self.

Charlesbarūn19rank/position

Charles / flower

Have you ever been belting it out at karaoke, only to feel the whole room freeze over? This song—by Vocaloid producer Balloon (Keina Suda)—is exactly the kind of landmine that can cause that.

It pairs the bittersweet theme of parting and loss with an upbeat, rhythmic melody, but its rapid-fire lyrics and wide vocal range make it significantly challenging to sing.

Attempt it half-heartedly and you risk killing the mood.

Released in October 2016 and included on the album “Corridor,” the track remains popular; in April 2025, a version sung by Ado was featured on the concept album “Fall Apart.” It’s a song best tackled by those confident in their vocal ability—people who can dominate the room’s atmosphere.

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE20rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Blue and Summer

Brimming with the sparkle and exhilaration of summer, this piece is perfect as BGM for sports days and athletic festivals.

Created by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, it was released in August 2018 as the theme song for the film “Aonatsu: 30 Days of Love.” It was later included on the album “Attitude.” Its refreshing band sound and a worldview that captures the brilliance of youth are the song’s key charms.

Overflowing with energy that gives listeners a push forward, it boosts the motivation of students practicing hard for the big day.

How about playing it during relays, cheer battles, and other moments when you want to heat up the field? It’s sure to become a cheer that resonates in the hearts of those working up a sweat.

366 daysHY21rank/position

HY – 366 Days (Official Music Video)

A signature “tearjerker” song known for its overwhelmingly relatable lyrics and heartrending vocals.

Though released in 2008, it became the motif for a TV drama in 2024 and a film in 2025, and vocalist Izumi Nakasone has collaborated with various artists—proof that the song has been loved for a long time.

It’s also famous as a “high-scoring” karaoke pick; I can actually score over 90 on it, so I highly recommend it.

While it’s on the longer side, the structure is easy to grasp, with clear peak moments that make expressive singing more attainable.

For the long tones, watch the pitch bar and sustain firmly to the end, and be mindful of switching between chest voice and falsetto.

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Kubota Mami

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