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

budKobukuro36rank/position

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

Released in March 2007 as the 14th single, this masterpiece was newly written as the theme song for the drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad.” Created by Kentaro Kobuchi in memory of his late mother, the song won the Excellent Work Award at the Japan Record Awards and was also selected as the entrance march for the 80th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

Like a tiny bud before it blooms, it warmly portrays the power of growth even in an unfinished state, along with heartfelt gratitude to the loved ones who always cheered us on.

It is a gentle song that, when you remember someone precious you can no longer meet, lets you feel that they are still watching over you from somewhere.

I LOVE…Ofisharu Higedan Dism37rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – I LOVE… [Official Video]

This song was written as the theme for the TBS drama “Koi wa Tsuzuku yo Doko Made mo” (“Love Lasts Forever”).

Released in February 2020 as their fourth single, it centers on a universal love that transcends labels—be it for a partner, a friend, or family.

The way familiar scenery becomes vividly colored through the presence of someone precious, and the frustrating feeling of wanting to say “I love you” but struggling to express it, are conveyed through Satoshi Fujiwara’s expansive vocals.

Because the forms of love depicted here are not just one, listening while thinking of someone dear to you will likely warm your heart.

Give it a listen when you want to feel the everyday turn into something special.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number38rank/position

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

Among back number’s songs, the massive hit is “Takane no Hanako-san.” The overall vocal range spans E3 to D5, which is fairly wide, but the melody is clearly divided into sections with distinct ranges, making it easier to switch between parts while singing.

Also, the tempo is surprisingly fast, so it’s best to lean forward a bit and sing proactively so you don’t get left behind.

In particular, the latter half has many sections where you’re singing continuously, so the key is to use your body to keep a steady rhythm as you sing.

In the quieter chorus section in the middle, using a gentle tone will let your voice carry and make it easier to sing.

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Kubota Mami

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Same BlueOfisharu Higedan Dism39rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Same Blue [Official Video]

This song serves as the opening theme for the hugely popular anime Blue Box.

Since the original manga has surpassed 5 million copies in circulation, many of you have probably heard it already.

The track vividly portrays the youthful, unpolished emotions of adolescence and the tangled feelings of first love.

Released in October 2024, it’s a perfect anthem for those pouring their hearts into love and club activities with reckless passion.

It’s also a recommended listen when you want to rekindle a sense of pure, sparkling wonder.

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN40rank/position

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” MV

I think there are many men in their 30s who like anime songs.

For such anime song fans in their 30s, UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is probably one of the most popular bands.

Among their tracks, the one I especially recommend is “Sugar Song and Bitter Step.” Its appeal lies in the seamless succession of high-pitched phrases that feel light yet deliver an exceptional sense of liberation.

If you watched Blood Blockade Battlefront as it aired, be sure to try singing it.

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Ryo

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waxing; filling up; becoming full; growing (e.g., the moon growing fuller)Fuji Kaze41rank/position

Fujii Kaze – Michi Teyu Ku (Overflowing) / Official Video

This work, whose quiet, introspective piano tones envelop the heart, is a ballad by singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze.

Released for streaming in March 2024, it was written as the theme song for the film “When April Comes, She Will,” which opened the same month.

While it deals with profound themes such as parting and loss, it carries a warmth that feels like quietly embracing sorrow and becoming gently fulfilled.

The smooth shifts in the vocals—from the lower register to a beautiful falsetto—are striking.

The arrangement, which cherishes a sense of spaciousness, is soothing and seems perfect for moments when you want to step away from the busyness of everyday life and calm your mind.

For men who want to sing it earnestly and with emotion at karaoke, why not give it a try?

SUNHoshino Gen42rank/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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