Japanese R&B Popularity Rankings [2026]
We’ve picked out popular Japanese R&B tracks to date.
Among them, we’ve selected those that are especially popular with men.
We introduce the songs in a ranked list based on play counts, so please take a look.
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Japanese R&B Popularity Ranking [2026] (31–40)
Baby Come Close To MeTawada Emi31rank/position
Emi Tawata is a singer known for her evocatively languid sound.
She’s recognized for a style close to neo-soul, which blends elements of Black music such as R&B, jazz, and funk, and her languid vocals give her a distinctive vibe reminiscent of Erykah Badu.
One of her signature songs, “Baby Come Close To Me,” features a melody strongly colored by jazz and R&B.
First LoveUtada Hikaru32rank/position
This classic song, which captures the bittersweet memories of a first love, is a confident work written by Hikaru Utada at the age of 16.
Weaving lingering feelings for a loved one together with delicate piano melodies, it has continued to touch many hearts since its release in April 1999.
Included on the album “First Love,” it sparked a phenomenon—topping the karaoke charts for 15 consecutive weeks, among other achievements.
It is recommended for those who wish to heal the pain of heartbreak or reaffirm their feelings for someone special.
Wrapped in Hikaru Utada’s clear, transparent vocals, why not revisit the precious memories etched in your heart?
EverythingMISIA33rank/position
A signature song by MISIA, who revolutionized the Japanese music scene with her overwhelming vocal prowess.
The lyrics express profound love and gratitude, and her moving vocal performance touches the hearts of many.
Released in October 2000, it became a massive hit as the theme song for the TV drama “Yamato Nadeshiko.” It has continued to be cherished for many years, ranking No.
1 in JASRAC’s annual distribution of copyright royalties for 2001, among other achievements.
Celebrating deep love and bonds with a partner or someone dear, this song is also embraced as an uplifting anthem that offers support through various stages of life.
It’s recommended for times when you want to be soothed by heartfelt lyrics and a beautiful melody.
StoryAI34rank/position
This is a heartwarming ballad that captures life’s precious moments.
AI’s powerful yet delicate vocals deliver a message to those of us caught up in the busyness of daily life: cherish the here and now.
Released in May 2005, the song reached No.
8 on the Oricon chart, resonated with many, and became a major hit with over two million downloads.
It was also selected as the Japanese ending theme for the film Big Hero 6, making it a beloved track both in Japan and abroad.
It’s perfect for times when you want to savor moments with someone special or take a closer look at yourself.
AI’s warm voice will surely be by your side and touch your heart.
mysteryHoshino Gen35rank/position
This is the fourth digital-only single by singer-songwriter Gen Hoshino, who has released numerous hit songs with his one-of-a-kind pop sensibility.
Written as the theme song for the TV drama “Why I Dress Up for Love,” the track leaves an impression with its pop yet sentimental atmosphere.
The fusion of sounds evocative of the late 1980s with a modern, complex chord progression results in an R&B piece for a new era that’s more than just nostalgic.
It’s a number that serves as a model of pop grounded in Black music, evoking both history and evolution.
FlyersBRADIO36rank/position
A track from the first full album “POWER OF LIFE,” which was selected as the opening theme for the anime Death Parade.
When the chorus hits the “Everybody put your hands up!” part, make sure to raise your hands and dance along at the live shows, of course.
HOMEShimizu Shota37rank/position
The debut song by Shota Shimizu, an important figure in Japan’s R&B scene, is a heartwarming piece that expresses feelings for his hometown and loved ones.
The lyrics, woven from his own experiences, resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in February 2008, the single reached No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was later included on the album “Umbrella,” becoming a track that symbolizes Shimizu’s musical identity.
The work was also adapted for the stage in November 2015.
For those who feel loneliness and challenges in the city or a sense of nostalgia for their hometown, this song will surely offer courage and hope.
Close your eyesHirai Ken38rank/position
This is a gem of a song whose poignant lyrics and Ken Hirai’s clear, translucent voice resonate deeply.
It beautifully captures profound feelings about lost love and the aching longing of being able to reunite only in memories.
Released in April 2004, it captured many hearts as the theme song for the film “Crying Out Love, in the Center of the World.” It became a social phenomenon, scoring a massive hit that included becoming the first movie tie-in to top Oricon’s year-end chart.
Highly recommended for those who have experienced the loss of someone dear or who want to feel pure love.
Why not surrender yourself to Ken Hirai’s voice as it gently seeps into your heart?
Workin’ HardFuji Kaze39rank/position
This work, which radiates Fujii Kaze’s distinctive musicality, is a heartwarming song that celebrates the process of effort.
Its striking blend of weighty piano and airy vocals creates a unique groove that gently envelops the listener.
Written as the shared theme song for the NTV and TV Asahi broadcasts of the FIBA Basketball World Cup in August 2023, the piece draws inspiration from Fujii’s own experience on a school basketball team.
It’s a track for those who feel worn out by daily struggles or haven’t recognized their own hard work.
Buoyed by his warm vocals, you’ll feel encouraged and find new energy for tomorrow.
as if gently envelopingMISHA40rank/position
The high, whistle-like voice at the beginning of the song is her own voice.
I think it’s very rare for a Japanese singer to be able to reach that register.
It seems she can sing across five octaves.
She doesn’t appear on TV very often, but in MVs (music videos), MISIA’s look is exactly that of an R&B singer.