Ranking of Popular Band Songs Among People in Their 20s [2026]

balladKetsumeishi50rank/position

Ketsumeishi “Ballad”

Speaking of Ketsumeishi, they’re strongly associated with hip-hop, but this song is what you could call a quintessential ballad.

It’s about an unrequited love and is utterly heartrending.

If you sing it softly and tenderly, it’s a song that will captivate women listeners.

If possible, I’d love for you to watch the music video too, which features a story that matches the song.

frecklesJUDY AND MARY51rank/position

Freckles – JUDY AND MARY (Full)

This song, which was the opening theme for the anime version of Rurouni Kenshin, is Sobakasu by JUDY AND MARY, the rock band led by YUKI.

When you think of Judy and Mary, this is the song that comes to mind! It’s a mischievous and cute rock tune.

The key is quite high, so it’s a perfect track for those who are good at hitting high notes!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Yoimachi Jēn

Report a problem

Crimson Bow and ArrowLinked Horizon52rank/position

Crimson Bow and Arrow

This is Linked Horizon’s signature song that took the era by storm as the first cour opening theme of the TV anime Attack on Titan.

From the very start, the resounding German phrases fused with weighty orchestration create a symphonic rock sound that instantly draws listeners into the story’s world.

Perfect for a work depicting a fierce battle for humanity’s survival, its dramatic melodic lines and powerful guitar sound really set your heart ablaze.

Released in July 2013 as a track on the single Jiyuu e no Shingeki (Advancing Toward Freedom), it reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and earned the group their first appearance at the 64th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen that same year.

Belting out the chorus at karaoke is a great stress reliever, and it’s the perfect song to get everyone hyped with your friends.

Christmas songback number53rank/position

back number – Christmas Song (full)

This is the 14th single by back number, a three-piece rock band that has won strong support—especially among younger listeners—for its bittersweet melodies tinged with melancholy and lyrics that anyone can relate to.

Released in November 2015, the song was chosen as the theme for the TV drama “5→9: The Monk Who Fell in Love with Me,” and it’s also known as one of the band’s signature tracks, being their only single certified million.

While it’s particularly popular with younger generations, it’s become a staple Christmas song in today’s J-pop scene, so it’s likely familiar to a wide audience.

It’s a heartwarming Christmas song that’s also recommended for people in their twenties, who may find it harder to express their feelings straightforwardly.

to clear up (weather)Yorushika54rank/position

Yorushika – Haru (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Yorushika is a rock duo that weaves together melodies with a floating feel and distinctive guitar sounds.

Their lyrics, which depict the fleeting nature of youth and the changing seasons, gently nestle close to the heart like a spring breeze and tenderly wrap one in hope for the future.

Released in January 2024 as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, this work is their first new release since Gento and is also featured in a web commercial for Suntory Gin SUI.

The interplay between the guitar and vocals creates a refreshing atmosphere, making it a perfect song for the season of taking new steps, such as moving up a grade or starting school.

glass windowKing Gnu55rank/position

King Gnu – Glass Window

This work sings of oneself and others reflected in a glass window, as well as of what’s been lost and the feeling of being adrift.

It’s a song King Gnu wrote specifically for the film “Don’t Call It Mystery.” Characterized by a weighty piano, a 16-beat groove, and strings that weave a deep, layered sound, it explores inner conflict and self-discovery while depicting the complexities of human relationships.

Released digitally in advance in September 2023, it was included on the album “THE GREATEST UNKNOWN,” released in November.

It vividly captures the film’s worldview and enhances the appeal of the work.

This is a track you’ll want to listen to when facing yourself or standing at a crossroads in life.

InfernoMrs. GREEN APPLE56rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Inferno

A track defined by a cool sound that blends darkness with a sense of speed.

The raw band sound takes center stage, and the vocals—soaring across a wide range—are absolutely overwhelming.

The way it keeps pushing forward toward the chorus amps you up as you listen.

Initially released ahead of the album in July 2019, it was later included on the album “Attitude,” released that October.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Fire Force, of which Motoki Omori is a huge fan, it delivers a powerful finish that connects closely with the story.