Ranking of Popular Japanese Pop (J-POP) Artists Among Elementary School Students [2026]

Don’t give upZARD91rank/position

Don't Give Up – ZARD (Full)

This gem of a song, woven from a moving melody and a powerful message, was released to the world in January 1993 as one of ZARD’s signature works.

With a gentle, warm vocal delivery, it wraps words of encouragement for a loved one and conveys a deep affection that says, “Even if we’re far apart, my heart is by your side.” Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Shiratori Reiko de Gozaimasu!” it has continued to garner broad support, being used at various sporting events and on the 24-Hour Television charity program.

As a cheering anthem that encourages and emboldens those striving toward their dreams, it’s a staple at school events such as sports days and graduation ceremonies.

Izumi Sakai’s clear, translucent voice and the heartwarming melody offer solace to those carrying worries and give them the strength to look ahead.

soliloquyhachiwari92rank/position

Soliloquy MV [Chiikawa MAD] [Music Video]

Chiikawa is a popular anime loved by a wide range of people, from elementary school children to adults.

The song “Hitorigotsu” is sung by Hachiware, a character in the series.

Given the time slot it airs in, most elementary schoolers have probably heard it at least once.

The piece is characterized by a very simple vocal line.

The pitch movement is very gentle and the range is quite narrow, so even upper-grade students whose voices may be unstable due to voice change can sing it without any problem.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Aim to be a Pokémon MasterMatsumoto Rika93rank/position

Aim to be a Pokémon Master

A heart-pounding song filled with passion for dreams and adventure, highlighted by Rica Matsumoto’s powerful vocals.

It delivers a youthful, positive message, singing of the courage to face hardship and the bonds with friends—perfect for boosting excitement at school sports days and athletic festivals.

Released as a single in June 1997, it was used as the opening theme for a TV anime.

It won the Work Award at the Heisei Anisong Grand Prize and garnered widespread support, reaching as high as No.

7 on the Oricon charts.

Even when practice time is limited for a sports-day cheer song, its simple, easy-to-remember melody and lyrics mean the whole class can start singing it right away.

Bring the Rain to Quench the ThirstMinami94rank/position

Minami “Kawaki wo Ameku” MV

Minami is a singer-songwriter who updates her live acoustic performance videos on TwitCasting and connects with fans as she works.

Her major-label debut song, Kawaki wo Ameku, was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Domestic Girlfriend.

She is known for songs with strong messages, similar to artists like Yorushika and YOASOBI, who are popular even among elementary school girls.

Even if the messages are complex, the animation-style music videos, her cool husky voice, and her mysterious worldview are captivating to people of all ages.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

SAKI

Report a problem

Goodbye ElegySuda Masaki95rank/position

Masaki Suda “Sayonara Elegy”

Masaki Suda, who is active as both an actor and a singer.

His song “Sayonara Elegy” is also a popular karaoke pick! It was the theme song for the 2018 drama “Kiss That Kills,” with lyrics and composition by Huwie Ishizaki, a close friend of Suda’s.

The official music video, featuring Suda strumming the guitar, has surpassed 100 million views, showing just how popular the track is.

Its straightforward vocals and cool sound are sure to capture the hearts of elementary school boys!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

sasashina

Report a problem