Ranking of Popular Japanese Songs and J-Pop Among Men [2026]

broad daylightKing Gnu8rank/position

King Gnu – Hakujitsu

King Gnu’s signature song, “Hakujitsu.” If you like singing, you’ve probably tried it at least once.

How did it go when you actually sang it? The more you attempt it, the more you realize just how incredibly difficult it is! “Hakujitsu” is a powerhouse ballad that demands delicate emotion and overwhelming vocal ability.

It’s a challenge piece for advanced singers at karaoke, training your range, rhythm, and expressiveness all at once.

I’ve sung it a few times myself and was shocked—“Was it always this hard?” Since King Gnu’s vocals are split between two singers, it’s pretty tough to pull off solo.

Still, you’ll want to master Iguchi’s falsetto parts.

Be very mindful of diaphragmatic breathing! Once you can produce a solid falsetto, the pitches themselves aren’t that hard, so the key is to exhale steadily and generously with a thin stream of air.

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Kubota Mami

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bouquetback number9rank/position

back number – Bouquet (full)

This is back number’s second single, released in June 2011.

The lyrics, which vividly portray the bittersweet and heartrending emotions of love, leave a strong impression.

Lines like “I’ll apologize as many times as it takes, and I’ll never forget to say thank you” convey a powerful determination to overcome any hardship.

The song was selected as the ending theme for the TBS music program COUNT DOWN TV, and a short film produced based on the track and released on YouTube also drew attention.

It’s a perfect song to perform at a dear friend’s wedding as a heartfelt blessing to the bride and groom.

Why not share hope for their future with your warm voice?

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN10rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

Despite having nearly 30 years of activity, the rock band BUMP OF CHICKEN is still at the forefront.

They have many famous songs, but among them, the most well-known is probably Tentai Kansoku.

The song’s vocal range spans from low G# to mid2 G#, with the lower register being quite deep.

Since a mid2 F appears in the final chorus, if you adjust the key so that you can sing that part solidly, it shouldn’t feel particularly difficult.

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Ryo

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HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number11rank/position

back number - “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” Music Video (Theme song for the TBS Tuesday drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love”)

A back number song that portrays the bittersweet feeling of waiting for a message from someone you like on your birthday night.

Released in February 2019 as their 20th single, it is also included on the album “MAGIC.” Many listeners will likely relate to the protagonist who, while carrying the pain and loneliness of unrequited love, murmurs “Happy Birthday” to themselves.

If you sing it at karaoke, it’s recommended to perform it in front of the girl you like or your girlfriend.

Your hidden feelings might reach their heart.

HANABIMr.Children12rank/position

Mr.Children 「HANABI」 MUSIC VIDEO

Mr.Children is a band that arguably the Heisei generation listened to the most.

Whether you’re in your 30s born in the Showa era or in your 30s born in the Heisei era, you’ve probably sung one of their songs at least once.

Among their tracks, the one I especially recommend is HANABI.

It features a chorus full of excitement, yet the pitch movement is relatively steady, so you can sing it at an after-party karaoke without pushing yourself too hard.

However, it does include quite a few low G-sharp notes, so a certain depth in vocal range is required.

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Ryo

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Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi13rank/position

Kazuyoshi Saito – Ballad of a Singer (2008 Ver.) [Music Video]

A timeless adult classic by Kazuyoshi Saito, celebrated for its deeply moving vocals and rich storytelling.

This exquisite ballad conveys heartfelt emotions for a loved one—feelings that are hard to say out loud—set to song with disarming honesty.

Its simple melody and resonant guitar gently enfold the lyrical world.

Since its release in November 1997, many artists have covered it, and in 2017 it was used as the theme song for the animated film “Lu Over the Wall.” In August 2022, a performance on THE FIRST TAKE drew significant attention, extending its appeal to a new generation.

With a relaxed tempo and a relatively narrow vocal range, it’s easy to sing with ease.

Why not sing it with all your heart, pouring your feelings for someone special into every note?

cold; curt; blunt; unfriendlyRADWIMPS14rank/position

RADWIMPS – Aloof [Official Music Video]

This is an epic love song over six minutes long that delicately portrays the wavering emotions of an ambiguous romance.

The bittersweet feelings of being elated or dejected by a partner’s slightest gestures or words are expressed over a calm and beautiful melody.

Included on RADWIMPS’ album ANTI ANTI GENERATION, released in December 2018, the song was also used as the theme for ABEMA’s dating reality show Who Is the Wolf?, resonating strongly with younger audiences.

The music video features Nana Komatsu and Fuju Kamio, resulting in a striking visual piece that reflects contemporary views on love.

It’s a track best enjoyed when you can really take your time singing—whether during a solo karaoke session or at karaoke with close friends in a relaxed setting.