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

LemonYonezu Kenshi22rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

Kenshi Yonezu has produced countless masterpieces, but among them, the song that especially captured the public’s attention is surely “Lemon,” isn’t it? I’m from the Heisei generation, and I feel that around the time this track was released, the overall sound began shifting toward a Reiwa-like style.

Etching its name into the history of J‑pop, this hit features many singable, catchy phrases.

The falsetto in the chorus might feel challenging, but I recommend deliberately lowering the key and singing it in chest voice there.

It may feel a bit lacking, but if you’re aiming for a perfect score, give it a try at least once.

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Ryo

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balladKetsumeishi23rank/position

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

This work by Ketsumeishi gently embraces listeners with a melody overflowing with songcraft, keeping the rapping to a minimum.

It’s their 24th single, released in January 2011, and it became widely familiar as the theme song for Nippon TV’s information program “Sukkiri!!”.

Sung over a quiet arrangement woven from piano and strings, the lyrics convey the pain of unrequited love and a yearning for a beloved that refuses to fade.

Even an adult man who usually keeps his emotions under wraps may find the long-suppressed ache welling up when he hears this song, perhaps even moved to tears.

It’s a touching adult love ballad that makes you want to listen alone, quietly, on a sleepless night.

KusushikiMrs. GREEN APPLE24rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Kusushiki” Official Music Video

We’re pleased to introduce a new track by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, written as the opening theme for the second cour of Season 2 of the anime The Apothecary Diaries.

Its title derives from the archaic word kusushi—the origin of the modern word for “medicine”—and a mysterious, uncanny atmosphere runs throughout.

The lyrics are striking, deftly capturing the power of words and the complexity of human relationships, likening feelings of love and apology to the moon and the sun.

It’s an ambitious piece that fuses band sound with oriental elements, and its whirlwind progression keeps listeners engaged.

Released as a digital single in April 2025, it’s also drawing attention as a song marking the band’s 10th anniversary year.

Perfectly matched to the series’ enigmatic imperial-harem setting, it’s recommended for those who enjoy Japanese aesthetics or crave dramatic musical developments.

loveback number25rank/position

back number – Koi (full)

This is a song by back number, a three-piece rock band beloved across a wide audience for their poignant worldview that vividly paints scenes before your eyes.

Its theme—capturing the frustrated feelings of unrequited love just before graduation—and its gentle, everyday-leaning melody line really tug at the heartstrings.

Released in March 2012 as their fourth single, it was selected as the ending theme for the March 2012 broadcasts of the music program “Music-ru TV.” It was later included on the album “blues” and the acclaimed compilation “Encore,” and has continued to be cherished over time.

With its calm, mid-tempo ballad vibe, it’s a perfect song for men who want to handle it smoothly at karaoke and show a touch of mature poise.

I want to hug you.Mr.Children26rank/position

Mr.Children “I Want to Hold You” MUSIC VIDEO

It’s an eternal love song written and composed by vocalist Kazutoshi Sakurai.

It first appeared on the album “Kind of Love.” Although total sales were about 60,000 copies, it later received Gold Disc certification and continues to be loved across generations.

The overall vocal range spans D3 to A#4, expanding and building toward the latter half.

When singing, project your voice confidently without hesitation to maintain stability throughout.

Since head voice appears at the end of the chorus, keep resonance in your head so you can transition smoothly from chest voice to falsetto.

Also, the final chorus modulates upward.

Raise your energy and stay mindful so your pitch doesn’t drop!

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Kubota Mami

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migratory bird[Alexandros]27rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

From the exhilarating intro guitar riff to the driving beat and crystalline vocals, this is a staple of [Alexandros]’s live shows.

The lyrics carry a powerful message filled with inner conflict and aspirations, perfectly balanced with a refreshing, hope-filled sound.

Released in March 2015, the track was featured in the film “Akegarasu.” It’s a song that gives you a strong push when you want to strive toward your goals or take a new step forward—one that lifts your spirits.

single bedSha ran Q28rank/position

Sharam Q “Single Bed” (Music Video)

Sharan Q’s signature ballad “Single Bed.” Among ballads from this generation of Japanese pop, this piece is exceptionally easy to sing.

Its vocal range is mid1 C# to mid2 G#, which sits squarely in the range most comfortable for the average adult male, so you shouldn’t feel any difficulty in terms of range.

Teens may find there’s a lot of low notes, but for those in their late 20s to 30s and up, it actually accentuates a more masculine tone, so it’s recommended to deliberately sing the opening lower.

The mid-to-high notes actually stick around longer than you might expect, so if you avoid raising the key too much at the start, it’s entirely possible to aim for a score of 90 or higher.

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Ryo

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