Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Artists Among People in Their 60s [2026]

Blue Light Yokohamaishida ayumi41rank/position

Blue Light Yokohama

A signature song by Ayumi Ishida that became a major hit in December 1968.

Its elegant, sophisticated melody and lyrics themed around the blue lights that color Yokohama’s nightscape blend beautifully.

The city’s stunning harbor night view overlaps with a fleeting love reflected within it, creating a unique atmosphere.

Written by lyricist Jun Hashimoto, who was influenced by Cannes in France and Picasso’s paintings, the piece brought a fresh breeze to Japanese popular music at the time.

It set an astonishing record by surpassing one million copies in ten days and won the Composition Award at the Japan Record Awards.

Beloved in South Korea as well, it has long been a karaoke staple.

With its relaxed tempo and singable style, it’s a song you’ll want to perform from the heart while picturing the enchanting night views of the port city.

Kanda Riverkaguya hime42rank/position

Kandagawa (Single Version)

This song, with lyrics that delicately depict the days of young people rich in happiness despite poverty, touches the heart and stands as one of Kaguyahime’s signature works.

Released in September 1973, it became a massive hit, selling 1.6 million copies.

Its portrayal of pure love and the struggle against societal constraints is masterful, conveying the feelings of the youth of that era.

The everyday scenes described in the lyrics also exude warmth.

It’s a song that evokes fond memories and a sense of connection with someone dear.

High School LullabyImokin Torio43rank/position

Imo-Kin Trio – High School Lullaby

Imo-Kin Trio’s “High School Lullaby” is a classic youth pop song released in 1981.

Set to Haruomi Hosono’s light, techno-infused sound, Takashi Matsumoto’s bittersweet love lyrics seep into the heart.

Many listeners may feel a wave of nostalgia in the phrases that capture snapshots of high school life.

Sing it at karaoke, and memories of your younger days might come rushing back.

It’s also nice to listen with friends or family and reminisce about those times together.

Let yourself go with the flow of timeTeresa Ten44rank/position

Let yourself go with the flow of time

A signature song by Teresa Teng, known as the diva of Asia, this timeless classic continues to resonate in the hearts of many.

Its passionate lyrics centered on love blend beautifully with Teresa Teng’s clear, crystalline voice.

Released in 1986, the song became a massive hit not only in Japan but across Asia.

It has been featured in numerous films and TV dramas and covered by a wide range of artists.

Expressing the wavering emotions of love, this song is perfect for moments when you want to think of someone special or when you are troubled by matters of the heart.

Why not surrender yourself to Teresa Teng’s voice and take a moment to face your own feelings?

ShipwreckNakamori Akina45rank/position

Nanpasen (2014 Remaster)

An emotionally rich ballad depicting a woman’s heart adrift in deep loneliness after losing the one she loves.

Originally released by Tokiko Kato in 1984, the song was covered by Akina Nakamori in 1987 and performed at the 38th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

While her mind tells her to “give up,” her emotions overflow and drive her to want to chase after her beloved—feelings that Nakamori’s sultry vocals express to perfection.

The song won the Gold Prize at the 29th Japan Record Awards and topped the Oricon charts, achieving an astonishing 410,000 copies sold.

It has also inspired numerous covers by renowned artists such as Kaori Momoi and Tomomi Kahala.

A gem of a masterpiece to listen to alone, quietly, when heartbreak leaves you on the verge of breaking.

RomanceIwasaki Hiromi46rank/position

Romance

A classic by Hiromi Iwasaki that joyfully sings of a maiden’s heart falling in love, set to a lively melody.

Released on July 25, 1975 as her second single, it became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

With lyrics by Yu Aku and music by Kyohei Tsutsumi—two masters who represent Japan’s music world—this song was born from their collaboration.

Iwasaki’s crystal-clear voice beautifully captures both the exhilaration and the bittersweet feelings of a woman in love.

It’s a heartwarming track that evokes the sweet and sour memories of youth.

A true gem of a song that everyone struggling with love should hear.

Listening to OliviaAnri47rank/position

Anri / Listening to Olivia [Official Video]

A melody that gently envelops the lingering ache of a bittersweet romance, paired with refined musicianship, resonates deeply in the heart.

The lyrics, which carefully depict a woman healing her delicate emotions after a breakup while listening to Olivia Newton-John’s songs, have struck a chord with many.

With Anri’s clear, translucent vocals giving the piece a sophisticated, urban feel, it was released in November 1978 and included on the album “Anri.” In 2008, it was also featured as an insert song in the Nippon TV drama “Saito-san,” cementing its status as a timeless classic loved across generations.

This warm ballad offers comfort to those trying to recover from the pain of heartbreak and to anyone who has experienced parting with someone dear.

Please give me wingsakai tori48rank/position

Red Bird “Please Give Me Wings” 1971

A moving classic that sings of young people’s pure desire for freedom and the wish to live true to oneself.

The beautiful harmonies by Akai Tori are striking, and the blend of lyrics by Mito Yamagami and melody by Kunihiko Murai is superb.

Released in February 1971 as the B-side to “Takeda no Komoriuta,” it was also included on the album Takeda no Komoriuta released in July of the same year.

Since 1997, it has been used as a cheer song for Japan’s national soccer team and was also chosen as the theme song for the film Whisper of the Heart.

This song teaches the importance of holding onto dreams and hopes from childhood while continuing to move toward them.

It’s a recommended track for when you want to release pent-up feelings or take a new step forward.

The Bride SambaGō Hiromi49rank/position

[Official] Hiromi Go “Oyome Samba” LIVE -To Commemorate Release on Subscription Services-

A lively tune with a light rhythm and cheerful vibe.

Released in May 1981, this song is beloved by many as one of Hiromi Go’s signature hits.

In the chorus, the distinctive dance featuring a box step and fluttering hand motions leaves a strong impression.

Performed together with the four female dancers known as the “Hiromic Ladies,” the act puts viewers in a joyful mood.

In the 2000s, it was also used on Fuji TV’s variety show “Waratte Iitomo!” which helped it gain even more popularity.

It’s highly recommended as a song everyone can enjoy dancing to at weddings and events.

Wandering Love SongNagabuchi Tsuyoshi50rank/position

Wandering Love Song

Released after his 1978 re-debut and still known today as a live staple, Jyunrenka is his second single overall.

The blues harp’s wistful tone and the sentimental lyrics evoke the charm of classic folk songs.

With an overall relaxed tempo—including a driving chorus—and a relatively narrow vocal range, it’s easy to sing even for those who aren’t confident singers.

If possible, mimicking Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s current vibe will likely hype up the karaoke, too.

It’s an immortal masterpiece.

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Hoshino Takashi

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