Ranking of Popular Band Songs Among People in Their 40s [2026]

Until the world endsWANDS50rank/position

WANDS – Until the World Ends

This masterpiece fuses Sho Uesugi’s lyrics, which depict urban loneliness and despair, with Tetsuro Oda’s wistful melody, powerfully stirring listeners’ hearts.

Released in June 1994, it was used as the second ending theme for the TV Asahi anime SLAM DUNK and became a million seller, surpassing 1.2 million copies.

It’s also included on the acclaimed album PIECE OF MY SOUL, and many people were undoubtedly hooked on it at the time.

The progression from a quiet opening to an explosive chorus makes it perfect for belting out at karaoke.

Sing it with friends from the same generation, and those fiery feelings from back then are sure to come rushing back.

Linda LindaTHE BLUE HEARTS51rank/position

[Official] THE BLUE HEARTS “Linda Linda” [1st Single (1987/5/1)] THE BLUE HEARTS / Linda Linda

One of The Blue Hearts’ signature songs, and the kind you can just scream and have fun with—whether live or at karaoke! For the quiet intro, sing carefully and with feeling, then for the chorus don’t worry about pitch—just belt it out and it’ll always get everyone hyped! Momentum is important, of course, but if you just shout recklessly you’ll hurt your throat, so focus on engaging your vocal cords and resonating in your chest.

Even just placing a hand on your chest while you sing helps you feel the resonance and hear your own voice better! You might get caught up in the intensity, but don’t forget to breathe—and enjoy singing!

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Kubota Mami

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If only I had held you tighterWANDS52rank/position

If I Had Held You Tighter

It’s a love song with a gentle atmosphere that seems to wrap up tender crushes and heart-fluttering feelings.

Released by WANDS in July 1992, this piece beautifully matches the soaring vocals of first-generation vocalist Sho Uesugi with a catchy melody line, achieving long-term sales success.

It became a massive hit, selling 1.663 million copies.

It was also used as a commercial song for Mitsui Life featuring Atsuko Asano, which greatly boosted its recognition.

Beginning with a scene of two people walking together at dusk as a slightly chilly wind blows, it carefully depicts the feelings of the protagonist, who harbors emotions bubbling up inside.

It’s a song we especially recommend to those who can relate to the poignant feeling of being in love yet unable to honestly put it into words.

Forever LoveX JAPAN53rank/position

X Japan – Forever Love

A ballad by X JAPAN characterized by a grand orchestra and powerful vocals.

Its lyrics, themed around profound sorrow, despair, and eternal love, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in July 1996, it was chosen as the theme song for the anime film “X,” which premiered the same year.

Imbued with a longing for what remains unchanged amid changing times, the song was also performed at X JAPAN’s final concert before their breakup, becoming a memorable track for fans.

Listening to it when you’re struggling with love or life may soothe your heart.

There will be love there – A Place with Lovethe brilliant green54rank/position

[HD] the brilliant green – There will be love there - A Place with Love

A heartwarming love song that gently sings of feelings for a beloved.

Released in September 1998, this track is known as a signature piece representing the band’s career.

Its lyrics, portraying tender crushes and bittersweet emotions, resonate deeply with listeners.

It was also featured as the theme song for the TV drama “Love Again,” and has been cherished by many.

Along with its nostalgic melody, it enjoys outstanding popularity as a karaoke staple.

Listening to this song will bring back memories of youthful days and scenes of first love, letting you relive the passion and excitement of that time.

It’s also recommended for those who love love songs but feel shy about singing them.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION55rank/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?

SOUL LOVEGLAY56rank/position

GLAY / SOUL LOVE

GLAY is a four-member rock band that churned out hit songs during the heyday of the visual kei movement in the 1990s and continues to be highly active today.

Their 14th single, “SOUL LOVE,” which was used as the campaign song for Kanebo’s “Bronze Love ’98 Summer,” is said to have been written by TAKURO in just ten minutes.

The arrangement moves from a twin-lead-guitar intro into a refreshingly GLAY-like ensemble, and for those in their 40s—the generation that grew up with it—simply hearing it may bring a flood of memories.

It’s one of GLAY’s signature tracks, sure to boost your mood when it comes on as background music during a drive.

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Hoshino Takashi

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