Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-Pop Among High School Boys [2026]

calculatingly cuteHinatazaka4692rank/position

Hinatazaka46 “Aza to Kawaii” (Cunningly Cute)

This is a song released in 2020 by the idol group Hinatazaka46, sung from a male perspective about unrequited love.

Once you fall in love, even if she isn’t conventionally beautiful, she looks like the cutest girl in the world, and everything she does somehow connects back to “I like you”—a love as sweet as sugar is woven through the lyrics.

Taken objectively, it’s full of lines that might seem embarrassing, but when a man actually falls in love, many might be surprised to find they feel the same way.

It’s a happy, feel-good track that will make you grin just thinking about the girl you like!

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sasashina

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SUNHoshino Gen93rank/position

Gen Hoshino – SUN (Official Video)

Gen Hoshino is a singer-songwriter who enjoys wide popularity for his broad musical range, from stylish tracks rooted in R&B and neo-soul to catchy, pop-leaning songs.

He has many classics, but the one I especially recommend for men with particularly low voices is SUN.

This piece sits in an average vocal range of mid1 D# to hi A.

While the arrangement highlights the lower register typical of Hoshino’s vocal quality, the hi A may feel slightly low as a ceiling for men with deep voices, so consider lowering the key with that note as your reference point.

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Ryo

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DoraemonHoshino Gen94rank/position

Gen Hoshino – Doraemon (Official Video)

A heartwarming song about hope and adventure is drawing attention as the theme for a hugely popular anime.

Released by Gen Hoshino in February 2018, the track was created as the theme song for the film “Doraemon the Movie: Nobita’s Treasure Island.” It was later adopted as the opening theme for the TV anime series as well, becoming a beloved song across generations.

Infused with Gen Hoshino’s signature elements of Black music, its rhythmic groove is sure to get the crowd going at karaoke.

High school boys, give it a try with your friends! The key is set on the lower side, so even those who aren’t confident in singing can take it on with ease.

A melody instead of a bouquetShimizu Shota95rank/position

Shota Shimizu 'A Melody Instead of a Bouquet' MV (Full Size)

A song with a soulful voice and lyrics that resonate deeply.

Released in October 2015 as the theme song for the NHK drama “Designer Baby,” it became Shota Shimizu’s 20th single and is also included on the album “PROUD.” The lyrics, which express profound feelings for a loved one, leave a strong impression with the memorable line, “I was born to be loved by you.” This track is perfect for a romantic moment with someone special.

Sing it at karaoke and you’ll be sure to capture the heart of the woman beside you.

If you sing with emotion, your coolness will come through.

PlasmaYonezu Kenshi96rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Plazma

The world of Kenshi Yonezu woven from imaginative melodies and innovative electronic sounds.

Set against the backdrop of space, this work—depicting life’s choices and fateful encounters—was released in January 2025 as the theme song for the animated film “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-.” It carries Yonezu’s signature delicate sensibility and straightforward passion, familiar from albums like “diorama” and “BOOTLEG.” Alongside its high-energy musicality, the lyrics powerfully convey the courage to step into new worlds and the drive to face the unknown, leaving a deep impression.

It’s a song I especially recommend to younger listeners who are determined to forge their own path.

Goodbye ElegySuda Masaki97rank/position

Masaki Suda “Sayonara Elegy”

This song gently portrays a heartrending farewell, highlighting Masaki Suda’s transparent vocals and delicate expressiveness.

Released in February 2018, it also drew attention as the theme song for the drama “Kiss That Kills” starring Kento Yamazaki.

As Suda’s first drama theme song, it earned Gold certification and has captured the hearts of many listeners.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to reminisce with friends or a partner at karaoke.

With its modest key and simple melody, it’s easy even for first-timers to sing—so give it a try.

JourneyFuji Kaze98rank/position

Fujii Kaze – Tabiji (Official Video)

A song characterized by warm melodies and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

Fujii Kaze’s distinctive vocals delicately portray the journey of life.

Released in March 2021, it gained attention as the theme song for the TV Asahi drama “Nijiiro Karte.” Its soundscape—where soulful arrangements intertwine with a nostalgic beat—is especially striking.

It’s a perfect pick for high school students to sing at karaoke.

The driving melody gently embraces the emotional waves unique to adolescence.

The vocal range is relatively narrow, so even those who aren’t confident in their singing can give it a try with ease.

Why not color your precious moments with friends or a loved one with this song?