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

A café in a student districtGaro36rank/position

GARO – Gakuseigai no Kissaten (Official Audio)

This is a classic hit by Garo that brings back nostalgic memories of student days.

Composed by Koichi Sugiyama with lyrics by Michio Yamagami, the song gently portrays memories of a former lover, set in a coffee shop in a student district.

Released in June 1972, it went on to top the Oricon charts for seven consecutive weeks the following year and won the Newcomer Award at the Japan Cable Radio Awards.

It was later used in a 1980 commercial for Gohan Desu Yo! and featured in the 2018 NHK morning drama Half, Blue., among other appearances, showing its enduring popularity.

This piece evokes a longing for youthful days.

Why not sing it together with seniors and enjoy reminiscing about those times?

Yoko of the Port, Yokohama, YokosukaDaun Taun Bugiugi Bando37rank/position

Minato No Yoko Yokohama Yokosuka

This song captivates with lyrics that unfold like a spoken narrative and a rock sound rooted in the blues.

Set in the two port towns of Yokohama and Yokosuka, its story of a man searching for a missing woman poignantly captures his sorrow, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Incorporating the American talking blues style crafted by Ryudo Uzaki, its innovative arrangement favors speaking over singing, bringing a fresh breeze to the music scene of the time.

Since its release in April 1975, the work spent five consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Oricon weekly chart.

With a recitative, storytelling delivery, it’s a song that even those lacking confidence in their vocal technique can enjoy performing.

Why not let yourself drift with its unhurried flow and sing while picturing the scenery of the harbor towns?

Heartbreak RestaurantShimizu Kentarō38rank/position

Heartbreak Restaurant 1976 11/21 Kentaro Shimizu Debut Single

Set in a restaurant portrayed as a place to heal the pain of heartbreak, this story gently envelops a wistful heart.

Released in November 1976 as Kentaro Shimizu’s debut, the song struck a chord with many through its light, catchy melody and deeply affecting lyrics.

Through the perspectives of heartbroken patrons who gather at the restaurant and a protagonist who has yet to experience love, it depicts the universality of love’s joy and sorrow.

It reached No.

1 on the Oricon Singles Chart in February 1977 and became a major hit with approximately 647,000 copies sold.

It also won numerous awards, including Best New Artist at the Japan Record Awards that same year.

A gem of a ballad to listen to when you want to soothe the pain of heartbreak or be a source of comfort for someone else.

The Day the Seagulls FlewWatanabe Machiko39rank/position

Machiko Watanabe · The Day the Seagull Flew

Speaking of Machiko Watanabe’s signature works, it’s a refreshing song everyone knows.

Many listeners are likely moved by the lyrics, which depict a beautiful seaside scene and lingering feelings for a former lover.

Released in April 1978, the song was a major hit, winning the Japan Record Awards’ Best New Artist and more.

Its sales of 460,000 copies also attest to its immense popularity.

If you sing it at karaoke, we recommend performing it as if feeling a gentle sea breeze, empathizing with someone who has gone through a breakup.

Imagine the seaside scenery and sing at an easy pace—you’ll surely deliver a lovely performance.

Blue Light Yokohamaishida ayumi40rank/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.

High School LullabyImokin Torio41rank/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 Ten42rank/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?