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

RomanceIwasaki Hiromi57rank/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.

Door of LifeTakeuchi Mariya58rank/position

Mariya Takeuchi – The Doors of Life (Official Music Video)

A song by Mariya Takeuchi released in 2007.

In the context of her overall career, it’s a mid-period work, so it might not be from the generation of women in their 50s, but it is extremely popular among fans.

Its appeal lies in lyrics whose depth becomes clearer with age, paired with a warm melody crafted to match.

The vocal range is slightly wide at mid1E to hiC#, but the pitch movement is gentle, making it a relatively easy song to sing overall.

There’s an English lyric section in the middle, so if you’re unsure about pronunciation, make sure to drill the linking beforehand.

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12th graderFunaki Kazuo59rank/position

12th grader

This is a masterpiece whose nostalgic, march-like melody and warm vocals—enveloping the bittersweet farewell of youth—resonate deeply.

It begins with the scene of the setting sun reflected on the school building, moves through images of boys and girls dancing a folk dance, and gently depicts the end of high school life with memories shared among friends before parting.

Released in June 1963 as Kazuo Funaki’s debut single, it became a massive hit, selling over one million copies within a year.

In November of the same year, a film of the same title was produced, with Funaki himself in the starring role.

It’s a song I’d recommend to those who cherish memories of their youth or feel nostalgic for their school days.

Why not give it a listen in the springtime, when you want to spend your days with a calm and peaceful heart?

Sailor Suit and Machine GunYakushimaru Hiroko60rank/position

Sailor Fukuto Kikanju (Original Version)

A perfect song for anyone who has parted ways with someone important to chase their dreams.

Released in November 1981 as Hiroko Yakushimaru’s debut single, it became a huge hit as the theme song for the film of the same name.

With its simple melody and careful, heartfelt vocals, it felt fresh amid the fierce idol boom of the time.

It was also used as an insert song in the anime Maison Ikkoku, making it beloved across generations.

Sing it at karaoke, and memories of your youth will come rushing back—sure to spark lively conversations with friends.

Why not sing it together with your closest companions?

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko61rank/position

“Cruel Angel’s Thesis” MUSIC VIDEO (HD ver.) / Zankoku na Tenshi no Te-ze “The Cruel Angel’s Thesis”

It’s a song widely loved as the opening theme of the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, resounding with Yoko Takahashi’s vocals.

It portrays youth’s growth and potential with words that are both beautiful and powerful.

Released in October 1995, it has remained timeless for over 25 years, continuing to leave a deep impression on many people.

It even won first place overall in JOYSOUND’s ranking of songs sung during the Heisei era, boasting popularity across generations.

It’s a track that can lift your spirits when you listen during little moments—while doing housework or on a drive.

Why not hum along? It’s sure to set your heart dancing.

The Bride of SetoKoyanagi Rumiko62rank/position

Seto no Hanayome – Rumiko Koyanagi (1972) 1979 · HD1080P

Seto no Hanayome is a heartwarming ballad that has been loved across generations.

Rumiko Koyanagi’s characteristically clear vocals are striking and gently nestle close to the listener’s heart.

Its relaxed melody lingers in the ears, evoking memories of days gone by.

The lyrics beautifully weave together hope for a new life with a touch of loneliness, making it a song that resonates with people of all ages.

It’s often chosen as a karaoke staple and feels familiar and approachable.

While it stirs nostalgia for the past, it also gives you the courage to face the time ahead with positivity.

A song that offers the healing power inherent in the act of listening—truly a masterpiece worthy of the name.

youthMorita Kōichi to Toppugyaran63rank/position

Koichi Morita and Top Gallant “Youthful Days” 1976 (original audio)

Released in 1976, Koichi Morita & Top Gallant’s song “Seishun Jidai” is etched deeply in the hearts of those in their 60s.

Nostalgic yet powerful, it brings back the feelings of those school days for many.

Yasushi Akutagawa’s lyrics carefully capture the complexities of youth, and their message still resonates unfaded today.

A million-seller that appeared on the 1977 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, it has been covered many times over the years and continues to be loved by people of all generations.

Let’s sing along as we reflect on those days that remain in our hearts.