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

I LOVE…Ofisharu Higedan Dism36rank/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.

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN37rank/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.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Same BlueOfisharu Higedan Dism38rank/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.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number39rank/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.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kubota Mami

Report a problem

waxing; filling up; becoming full; growing (e.g., the moon growing fuller)Fuji Kaze40rank/position

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

That even the most brilliant moments must come to an end—and that by letting go of attachment, the heart can be filled.

Released in March 2024 as the theme song for the film “When April Comes, She Will,” this is Fujii Kaze’s first love song.

It gently sings of the futility of love that seeks something in return and the fulfillment that unconditional love brings.

His tender voice, carried by a soft piano melody, teaches us the importance of embracing change.

It’s a song I recommend to those who have experienced parting from someone dear, or who wish to reconsider what it means to love.

SUNHoshino Gen41rank/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.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

At all times.Makihara Noriyuki42rank/position

[Official] Noriyuki Makihara “No Matter What” (Music Video) [3rd Single] (1991) Noriyuki Makihara/donnatokimo [No. 1]

A signature work by Noriyuki Makihara that delivers a universal message of living true to yourself, carried by a powerful yet gentle melody.

While acknowledging the doubts and anxieties of life, this classic is imbued with a strong resolve to cherish your true self.

Included on the album “Who Do You Share a Happy Yawn With?”, it became a massive hit, surpassing one million copies within six months of its June 1991 release.

It was also selected as the entrance march for the 64th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament in spring 1992.

The melody, featuring a distinctive acoustic guitar and a calm tempo, makes it easy to sing.

For many people, it’s a song that resonates in the heart when standing at a crossroads or when they feel on the verge of losing themselves.