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

Love will winKAN50rank/position

Aiwa Katsu

A signature song by KAN, known for his warm vocals and relatable lyrics.

With its bright, catchy rhythm and a simple yet deeply resonant message, it has brought comfort to many listeners.

Both the melody and the abstract, universal lyrics make it a gem that skillfully incorporates elements of Western music while remaining distinctly Japanese pop.

Released in September 1990 by Polydor Records, it was featured as an insert song on the TV program “Hō-chan no Yamada Katsute Nai Terebi.” Sales exceeded 2.01 million copies, and KAN also performed it at the 1991 Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

The song’s pleasant piano tone and relaxed tempo make it an easy and enjoyable choice for karaoke.

Mary AnnTHE ALFEE51rank/position

Mary Ann

A classic youth anthem that beautifully fuses bittersweet romance with an energetic rock sound.

Released in June 1983, this track became THE ALFEE’s first major hit, reaching No.

7 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and No.

30 on the year-end ranking.

It later climbed to No.

3 on The Best Ten.

Riding this success, the band made their first appearance at the 34th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen at the end of 1983.

Also included on the album ALFEE’S LAW, the song has remained a beloved staple of THE ALFEE’s live performances.

With romantic lyrics woven together in perfect balance with hard rock, this piece is a must-listen for anyone cherishing a secret love.

Kanda Riverkaguya hime52rank/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.

Funky Monkey BabyKyaroru53rank/position

Funky Monkey Baby / Carol

A quintessential Carol song that wraps a straightforward love story in breezy rock ’n’ roll, remaining as vibrant as ever.

It portrays the protagonist’s pure feelings as he becomes captivated by his lover’s playful gestures, carried by a melodious sound.

Released in June 1973, it achieved an exceptional 300,000 sales for a rock band at the time.

Its edgy guitar riffs and rhythmic phrases left a significant mark on the history of Japanese rock.

The track was also included on the album “Funky Monkey Baby.” With its catchy melody and infectious rhythm, this song is perfect for getting hyped with close friends at karaoke.

If we ever meet in the city somedayNakamura Masatoshi54rank/position

If we ever meet in the city someday

It’s a gently written, heart-touching classic about memories of a past lover and the wish to meet again.

From parting in the city of memories, to love and resentment, and even the moment when dreams were shattered, it weaves together every moment the two spent together.

Masatoshi Nakamura’s warm vocals blend beautifully with the soothing melody crafted by Takuro Yoshida, resulting in a song that evokes both nostalgia and bittersweet longing.

Released in May 1975, it was used as an insert song in the drama “Oretachi no Kunshō” and reached No.

6 on the Oricon charts.

Many artists, including Naoko Ken and Masayuki Suzuki, have covered it.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to if you’ve experienced parting from someone dear, or when you’re in the mood to reminisce about the past.

PRIDEImai Miki55rank/position

Miki Imai - 'PRIDE' Music Video

A heart-stirring anthem that turns hidden love into pride is delivered by Miki Imai.

Gazing up at the southern night sky, this piece sings of deep affection and resolve for a beloved, a gem of a love song crafted by Tomoyasu Hotei.

It gently speaks of the kindness to forgive one another and the joy of cherishing each other’s individuality, tenderly resonating with listeners’ hearts.

Released in November 1996, it was selected as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Doc,” generating a huge response by topping the Oricon charts for three consecutive weeks.

For those who wish to keep moving forward or who hold thoughts of someone precious close to their heart, it will offer gentle companionship—like a gift from the starry sky.

Ruby RingTerao Akira56rank/position

Ruby No Yubiwa

Mr.

Akira Terao, who has left behind numerous masterpieces as a renowned actor.

For those in their 60s, his image as a singer may be even stronger than his image as an actor.

Many were likely surprised that he wasn’t just a one-hit wonder, but kept releasing hits with an unwavering, cool musical style.

Ruby no Yubiwa is his biggest hit.

While the lowest note drops to a very low low G, there are solid moments of lift within its cool, understated mood—such as a key change toward the end.

Despite the modulation, the piece has a narrow vocal range, so you might even try raising the key on purpose and experimenting with a more powerful delivery different from the original.

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