Ranking of Japanese Bands Popular Among Men [2026]

Uguiutakariyushi 5871rank/position

Kariyushi58 “Uku i Uta”

“Ukui” means “to give” in the Okinawan dialect, so the song’s title means “A Song to Give.” It was composed to cheer on people who are chasing their dreams.

Because not everything in their youth was rosy, the words of Maekawa, the tattooed bass vocalist, carry a weight that hits home—distinct from the kind of easy, cookie-cutter pep songs that can be dashed off without much thought.

Messenger from Sunday↑THE HIGH-LOWS↓72rank/position

[Official] The High-Lows “Messenger from Sunday” [Included on the album ‘flip flop’ (2001/1/24)] THE HIGH-LOWS / Nichiyoubiyori no Shisha

This is the 22nd single by the four-piece rock band ↑THE HIGH-LOWS↓, formed around Hiroto Kōmoto and Masatoshi Mashima, who were active as members of the legendary rock band THE BLUE HEARTS.

It’s a track with numerous tie-ins, including serving as the theme song for the film “Zebraman,” as well as being featured in commercials and as theme songs.

With its pop, laid-back arrangement and sing-along-friendly intro and instrumental breaks, it’s perfect for closing out a karaoke session.

However, since the song runs over six minutes, be sure to choose it when you have enough time left.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been Around Since Long Ago~My Little Lover73rank/position

My Little Lover "Hello, Again ~A Place That’s Been There Since Long Ago~

Released in 1955, this song is a heartbreak tune that somehow feels deeply nostalgic.

It’s a piece that could only work with akko’s soothing vocals.

Even though it’s a breakup song, why does it fill us with so much hope and strength? It must be in the title, “Hello, Again ~A Place Long Ago~.” It’s a masterpiece that makes you feel like you can return to your youth no matter the era.

It’s a quintessential 90s heartbreak song and a timeless classic loved by many.

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Yoshizaki Keiko

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AM11:00HY74rank/position

AM11:00

HY, a rock band from Okinawa, has a song called “AM11:00” that I highly recommend for mixed-gender karaoke.

The track features a main male vocalist with harmonies by a female vocalist, making it perfect for a male-female duet.

There’s also a solo part for the female singer after the first chorus; if the high notes seem tough, it’s a good idea to sing it an octave lower.

And if you’re up for it, guys should try taking on the rap part too!

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Yuuki

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Baby Babyichou BOYZ75rank/position

Baby Baby

Ging Nang BOYZ is a rock band led by Kazunobu Mineta, a figure often called a charismatic presence in Japan’s rock scene.

Did you know that “BABY BABY,” included on the album “Kimi to Boku no Daisanji Sekai Taisen-teki Renai Kakumei,” is a song that has been performed since their predecessor band, GOING STEADY? Its lyrics weave poetic lines into a straightforward message, creating impact alongside catchy phrases.

With its hooky melody, it’s fun to sing and a rock tune that really fires up the room at karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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rose flowerkururi76rank/position

Quruli – Rose Flower

Among men in their 40s who were into Japanese rock, Quruli likely left a strong impression.

Unlike other J-rock bands, many were captivated by their music’s emphasis on a distinct worldview.

Of all Quruli’s songs, the one I especially recommend is Bara no Hana (Rose Flower).

This track is characterized by an ennui-tinged musical style, with a correspondingly calm and composed vocal line.

While it does feature a fair number of sustained notes, it doesn’t demand much vocal power, so there’s no need to worry too much.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Ryo

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Islanders’ TreasureBEGIN77rank/position

BEGIN / “Shimanchu nu Takara” 20th Anniversary MV

A signature song of Okinawa, widely known as the image song for NHK’s “30th Anniversary of Okinawa’s Reversion to the Mainland.” It’s popular across generations, but when a man in his 50s sings it at karaoke or in a snack bar, the weight of his life experience adds persuasiveness, making it a great choice to warm up the room! Because the song itself has a gentle Okinawan feel, it’s better to sing softly, as if speaking, rather than belting it out.

The melody flows smoothly, so try to hit the pitch bar in a continuous, seamless way instead of chopping the phrases.

That will help bring out the right atmosphere!

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Kubota Mami

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