Popular Band Rankings [2026]

Confession RehearsalHONEY WORKS29rank/position

HoneyWorks “Practice Confession feat. Natsuki Enomoto (CV: Haruka Tomatsu)”

HoneyWorks is a creator unit known for media mix projects spanning novels, anime, and more.

This track, featuring the VOCALOID GUMI, is a pop-rock number packed with the thrills of youth.

It tells a bittersweet story of hiding one’s true feelings under the guise of a “rehearsal” right before a confession—something many listeners will surely relate to.

The quotation of a Bach melody in the interlude is memorable as well.

The album ‘I’ve Liked You for a Long Time.’, released in January 2014, debuted at No.

4 on the Oricon charts and later served as the basis for a theatrical anime.

The lyrics, which jokingly gauge the other person’s reaction, are perfect for a LINE “prank.” Try sending messages one line at a time—unclear whether they’re serious or just practice—and give your crush a little heart-stopping surprise.

It’s nothing.makaroni enpitsu30rank/position

Macaroni Empitsu “It’s Nothing,” MV

This is a song that reveals new charm when sung by a woman.

Performed with the soft voice of Macaroni Enpitsu’s vocalist Hattori, it features a comfortable melody infused with pop-rock elements.

Released in November 2021, the song’s lyrics—centered on the anxieties of love and self-affirmation—leave a strong impression and resonate deeply with listeners.

It has gained popularity on streaming services and ranked high on the Billboard Japan charts.

It’s also a great pick for women who want to sing songs by male artists at karaoke.

If a woman belts out the chorus with power, it’s guaranteed to sound cool!

Mela!Ryokushokushakai31rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

Even when you sit down at your desk, you just can’t stay focused… this is a song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai you should listen to at times like that.

Its sprightly beat that makes you want to move and the bright sound of brass will instantly lift your sunken mood.

Cherishing the impulse of “Now’s the time!” and striving to change yourself, its positive message will surely give a powerful push to your efforts toward your goals.

It was released in April 2020 as an advance single from the album SINGALONG.

When you’re feeling sleepy or want to make a final sprint, listen to it and you’ll feel energy welling up from within.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION32rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite” (M-1 Grand Prix 2024 Promotion Video Theme Song)

Just hearing the intro guitar riff is enough to get many people’s blood pumping, isn’t it? Released in August 2004, ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s “Rewrite” is a rock tune that’s remained a karaoke staple for years.

Chosen as an opening theme for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist, the song is also included on the classic album Sol-fa and is widely known as one of the band’s signature tracks.

Its emotional lyrics, which feel like an eruption of pent-up feelings, are sure to resonate deeply with those overwhelmed by daily work.

When the chorus—the biggest climax—hits, the best way to sing it is to forget about pitch and just shout at the top of your lungs! Next time you’re with coworkers or old school friends, why not grab the mic and scream your heart out?

catDISH//33rank/position

cat

A signature bittersweet ballad by DISH//, known for being written and composed by singer-songwriter Aimyon.

While depicting a parting with a loved one, the lyrics poignantly overlay their memory onto the image of a free-spirited animal—something that really pierces the heart.

Many listeners are likely moved to tears by the protagonist’s earnest desire to reunite, no matter the form.

Although it was originally the B-side to the single “We Did It” released in August 2017, it exploded in popularity after a performance video was posted on the YouTube channel “THE FIRST TAKE” in March 2020.

The song has surpassed 1 billion total streams, and in October 2020 it was also featured as an insert song in TV Tokyo’s Drama 25 series “Neko.” It’s a masterpiece that gently keeps you company on nights when you want to sink into music.

silhouetteKANA-BOON34rank/position

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

KANA-BOON’s signature number, beloved as the opening theme of the globally popular anime Naruto Shippuden and cherished by fans across borders.

Released as a single in November 2014, it features the band’s characteristic, exhilarating drive and an emotional, instantly memorable melody.

The lyrics depict a resolve to grow into adulthood by drawing strength from past experiences and pain while protecting what’s important, powerfully spurring listeners forward.

It was later included on the album TIME and is celebrated as a song that generates enough heat at live shows to unite the entire venue.

When you’re feeling lost or want to fire yourself up, listening to it will surely give you the courage to face forward!

Naughty SunORANGE RANGE35rank/position

ORANGE RANGE – Naughty Sun (Reiwa ver. Music Video)

ORANGE RANGE is a rock band from Okinawa with numerous hit songs like “Shanghai Honey” and “Hana.” Released in July 2007 as their 17th single, this track boasts a fully summer-ready sound.

Chosen as the opening theme for the Fuji TV drama “Hanazakari no Kimitachi e ~ Ikemen Paradise ~,” its provocative lyrics and up-tempo rhythm really fire you up.

The irresistibly danceable mixture rock makes it perfect BGM for workouts or for charging your energy in the morning.

It also topped the 2007 “Most Hype Karaoke Songs” ranking overall, making it ideal for blowing off steam by singing with friends.

It’s a song brimming with healthy energy—just listening to it will make you break a sweat.