Ranking of Popular Band Songs Among People in Their 50s [2026]

TRAIN-TRAINTHE BLUE HEARTS22rank/position

[Official] THE BLUE HEARTS 'TRAIN-TRAIN' [3rd Single (1988/11/23)] THE BLUE HEARTS / TRAIN-TRAIN

A powerful portrayal of relentlessly sprinting toward one’s goals, this signature work by THE BLUE HEARTS is set in the real world—not a utopia or a hell—and boldly declares that life itself has meaning even if we can’t be perfect.

Released in November 1988, this track, which lends its name to the album TRAIN-TRAIN, uses piano for the first time in the band’s history to create a sense of exhilarating momentum and reached No.

5 on the Oricon singles chart.

In 1989, it was also chosen as the theme song for the TBS drama “High School Rakugaki.” For those standing at a crossroads in life, this is a song that will be a powerful ally.

When you’re torn about a decision, let it be a source of courage that gives you a push forward.

Before anything else, from atop the roadIsseifubi Sepia23rank/position

Issei Fubi Sepia “Dear Sir/Madam, From Above the Road” [Official]

This track, distinguished by lively festival-like drums and flutes, weaves in themes that deeply reflect on the meaning of life and personal values through scenes of nature.

While questioning the purpose of living and our reason for being, it delivers a powerful message of courage and hope in the face of hardship.

Released in June 1984 as the debut single of Ikkyo Fubi Sepia, it reached No.

5 on the Oricon charts.

It was also used in commercials for SUZUKI’s scooter “Love THREE” and Kirin Beer’s “Kirin Shochu Tanrei Straight,” gaining popularity across a wide audience.

It’s a song that gives you the strength to face forward and keep walking when you’re at a crossroads in life, feeling lost or anxious.

RUNNERbakufū suranpu24rank/position

Bakufu Slump “Runner” MUSIC VIDEO (HD)

A heart-stirring anthem of encouragement themed around a track-and-field team, depicting young people who keep running with single-minded devotion.

Released in October 1988, it’s a medium-tempo rock number by Bakufu Slump.

Powerfully interwoven are its strong guitar riffs, exhilarating sense of speed, and the passionate vocals of Mr.

Sunplaza Nakano.

Featured as an insert song on the TV show “Tensai! Takeshi no Genki ga Deru TV,” it became a major hit, reaching No.

6 on the Oricon weekly chart.

Through evocative scenes that summon memories of youth, the song gently sings of bonds with friends and hope for the future.

A gem of a track that stands beside anyone about to take a new step forward.

LOVE LOVE LOVEDREAMS COME TRUE25rank/position

DREAMS COME TRUE「LOVE LOVE LOVE」

Here’s a song released by DREAMS COME TRUE in 1995.

Among their singles, it achieved their highest sales and topped the Oricon year-end chart.

It was used as the theme song for the drama “Aishiteiru to Ittekure,” starring Etsushi Toyokawa and Takako Tokiwa, and since the drama was extremely popular, many people likely remember it vividly.

In 1998, it was included in high school music textbooks, becoming a song beloved across generations.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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WON’T BE LONGBaburugamu Burazāzu26rank/position

Bubblegum Brothers “WON’T BE LONG” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

The Bubblegum Brothers, who rose to popularity with entertainment-packed performances rooted in soul and funk, released their tenth single in August 1990—a track that perfectly distills their appeal.

Chosen as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Hit Studio R&N,” the song drew widespread attention after being featured on a television program in March 1991, ultimately becoming a massive hit with total sales of 1.7 million copies.

With its catchy sound—dubbed “living-room funk” for its friendly accessibility—and a shout that sticks in your head after just one listen, it remains a powerful classic beloved across generations.

Under the Big Onion ~ Distant Feelingsbakufū suranpu27rank/position

Under the big onion

It’s likely the first song that comes to mind as a tear-jerking ballad from Bakufu Slump, a band more often associated with an energetic rock image.

The now-nostalgic setup of meeting a pen pal tugs at the heartstrings.

The scenery of Kudanshita, where the song is set, and the swelling feelings for the person they ultimately never met overlap to squeeze listeners’ hearts with melancholy.

Released as a single in October 1989, the track is actually a remake of a song included on the album “Shiawase.” It was also used as the theme song for the film “Battle Heater” and in commercials, leaving a lasting impression on many.

It’s an evergreen classic that brings back the bittersweet memories of youth.

Suddenly, SinbadSazan Ōrusutāzu28rank/position

Suddenly Sindbad [2024 Remaster]

Southern All Stars’ debut single, released in June 1978.

If you’re in your 50s, it’s safe to say there’s hardly anyone who hasn’t heard it—an absolute classic! From the intro melody through the entire track, it’s packed with unforgettable phrases and lyrics that leave a strong impression.

It’s the kind of song that instantly lifts your spirits just by belting it out, so don’t sweat the small stuff—just enjoy it.

It’s bound to be a blast if everyone joins in on the intro and the shout-along parts of the chorus!

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Kei Takahata

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