Ranking of Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Popular Among Teens [2026]

MiracleGReeeeN8rank/position

GReeeeN – Kiseki

Released in May 2008, this song drew attention as the theme for the TV drama “ROOKIES.” Centered on the themes of the “miracle” of meeting a loved one and the “path” they have walked together, it conveys hope for the future and gratitude in straightforward words.

It was also chosen as the entrance march for the 81st National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament in 2009, gaining popularity as a cheer song that colors passionate moments of youth.

Its warm yet powerful melody will gently give you a push as you strive toward your goals.

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai9rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

This song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai vividly portrays the rush of sprinting through the fleeting moments of youth.

Released in July 2024, its uptempo sound and distinctive melodic lines resonate powerfully with young listeners.

It carries a message: there’s no need to be embarrassed about giving your all—treasure the experiences you can only have in this very moment.

The track is included on the album “Channel U” and was also chosen as the theme song for ABEMA’s original romance show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.

Summer Vacation 2024.” It’s a perfect fit for scenes of coming together at school sports days or athletic events, making it an ideal choice as background music for group gymnastics as well.

Girl RayMikito P10rank/position

Mikito-P “Shoujo Rei” MV

Contrasting the freshness of summer, this one song strikes the heart with a poignant story.

Crafted by Mikito-P, it rides on a beautiful melody to sing of precarious emotions and tragedy, as well as the protagonist’s possessiveness and regret.

Mikito-P has said the piece was inspired by the drama “A Human Failure: Suppose I Were to Die” (“Ningen Shikkaku ~ Tatoeba Boku ga Shindara”), and the use of acoustic guitar draws from the show’s featured song “A Hazy Shade of Winter.” It’s perfect for moments when you want to sink into a bittersweet mood on a summer day, or if you love music rich in storytelling.

The contrast between the beautiful melody and the lyrics will surely pull you in.

Give it a listen!

RPGSEKAI NO OWARI11rank/position

SEKAI NO OWARI「RPG」

With its fantastical atmosphere and marching rhythm, this song gives a gentle push to new adults stepping into a new world.

Released in May 2013, SEKAI NO OWARI’s single “RPG” is a cheer anthem themed around friendship and adventure.

Written by Fukase and Saori, the lyrics portray the strength to face forward and overcome hardship, drawn from their own experiences.

The song also became beloved as the theme for the film “Crayon Shin-chan: Very Tasty! B-Class Gourmet Survival!!”.

Even if you feel lost on the adventure called life, listening to this track will give you the courage to believe you’ll be okay.

SignalWANIMA12rank/position

WANIMA “Signal” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A song filled with courage and hope that sets listeners’ hearts ablaze! It features a driving, fast-paced sound and uplifting lyrics, carrying the message: “Even if we’re unfinished, let’s keep challenging ourselves.” Included on the January 2018 album “Everybody!!,” it was performed with 1,000 eighteen-year-olds on the NHK special program “18-sai Matsuri.” It was also used as the commercial song for Lotte Ice “Sou.” This is a track that gives a push to young people standing at life’s crossroads, such as during entrance exams or job hunting.

All the more reason to listen when you’re struggling with worries or anxiety—you’re sure to find courage.

March 9Remioromen13rank/position

Remioromen – March 9

Remioromen, a band that defined an era.

Their signature song “March 9th” is still a staple graduation song, frequently used at ceremonies and across social media.

The song’s vocal range is very narrow—mid1 C to mid2 G—making it easy to sing for men with lower voices.

Additionally, the lowest note, mid1 C, appears in the chorus, which lets low-voiced singers bring their most attractive low tones right into the hook—another reason this track is highly recommended.

It’s also widely known, so give it a try.

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Ryo

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peace signYonezu Kenshi14rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

From children to adults, it’s no exaggeration to say that everyone now knows Kenshi Yonezu.

He has many hit songs, but this track, “Peace Sign,” served as the opening theme for the anime My Hero Academia, so it’s likely known to an even wider range of generations.

When we struggle with worries, anxieties, or seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we tend to focus on them—but this song feels like it gives us the power to look beyond.

It empathizes with our pain and hardship, yet the chorus delivers a solid sense of salvation—that’s the impression it leaves.

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utatane

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