Top Japanese Songs / J-POP Rankings by Generation: Teens

Otona Blueatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu78rank/position

ATARASHII GAKKO! – Otona Blue (Official Music Video)

When it comes to the signature song by Atarashii Gakko! that sparked a social phenomenon in 2023, many people will think of this track.

Its funky blend of Showa-era kayōkyoku and electronic sounds is irresistibly pleasant, delivering a groove that makes your body move.

The lyrics compare an as-yet-unripened self to a flower bud, portraying the emotional turmoil between yearning for adulthood and the gap with reality.

The contrast between the desire to act grown-up and the lingering innocence is both poignant and endearing.

Released in May 2020, the song gained renewed attention on TikTok about three years later, with related head-shaking dance videos surpassing 3.1 billion views.

It won an Excellence Award at the 65th Japan Record Awards and marked the group’s first appearance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

The striking choreography is easy to learn and perfect for school festivals or wedding performances—an ideal song to get the whole venue involved and energized.

Having someone you likeJY79rank/position

JY 'Have Someone You Like' Music Video Short Ver.

When it comes to music popular among teens, K-pop is the obvious pick.

But for those who find Korean difficult, I recommend “There’s Someone I Love” by JY, a former member of KARA.

If you like sparkling, cute-style songs, this is an absolute must-listen.

And since it’s in Japanese, there’s no need to feel intimidated! It was used as the theme song for a TV drama of the same name, so it’s well-known and definitely buzzworthy.

It’s a fresh love song that sweetly captures the push and pull of romance.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Yoimachi Jēn

Report a problem

omnidirectional beautynozomi80rank/position

Noa (Noshii) – Omnidirectional Beautiful Girl [Official Music Video]

Noshi is a female singer-songwriter who has gained popularity for her music brimming with originality.

She has many comical songs, and their impact draws attention every time.

You could say her work is especially popular among subculture-inclined girls.

Among Noshi’s tracks, the one I particularly recommend is “Zen Hoko Bishoujo” (“All-Direction Beautiful Girl”).

Though it leaves a strong impression, its vocal range is not especially wide, spanning mid2A to hi C#.

If the falsetto parts are tough, it’s a good idea to lower the key with a focus on those sections.

Moody yet highly addictive, this song is sure to hype up any karaoke session.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

summer squallarashi81rank/position

ARASHI – Natsu Hayate [Official Music Video]

This uplifting and energetic cheer song by Arashi leaves a strong impression.

Written and composed by Yujin Kitagawa of the folk duo Yuzu, it delivers a powerful message of support to the high school baseball players who devote themselves wholeheartedly at the Summer Koshien.

When you hear this track, don’t you feel your heart swell with the players’ sweat, tears, and pure passion as they chase their dreams in the fleeting summer? Released in July 2018 as their 55th single, the song moved many as the official support song for that year’s 100th National High School Baseball Championship and the theme for the TV program “Netto Koshien.” It is also included in the best-of album “5×20 All the BEST!! 1999-2019.” It’s truly a hope-filled track that vividly colors the Summer Koshien.

LemonYonezu Kenshi82rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

A song by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, written specifically as the theme for the TV drama “Unnatural.” Recognized across generations through its role as a drama theme, over 100 million video views, and a performance at the 2018 NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen, this track can be considered a karaoke favorite that everyone can sing along to.

Overall, the key is low and the song is easy to sing, but be careful—if you let your guard down, your voice may go sharp during the high notes in the chorus.

Also, because the rhythm has a bounce, being able to feel and ride the rhythm will help you stand out at karaoke, so it’s a good idea to listen closely at home before you go.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Yes, with pleasure.kocchi no kento83rank/position

Sure thing / Kocchino Kento MV

Released in 2024, this song became a social phenomenon: the “Giri-Giri Dance” went viral on social media, and it even broke into the top 20 on the Billboard Japan charts.

Kocchino Kento’s sensibility shines through in lyrics born from his own struggles with mental health—spoken head-on yet wrapped in just the right touch of humor and a pop sound that keeps things from getting too dark.

The message embedded in the lyrics—“If you feel at your limit, it’s okay to ask for help”—feels like an anthem for all of us living in the present day.

For karaoke, there are a few slightly fast-paced parts, but with a bit of practice you’ll get the hang of it quickly, and since it’s a song everyone knows, it’s guaranteed to get the crowd going.

If you sing it while copying the dance with your friends, it’s even more fun!

BibbidebaHoshimachi Suisei84rank/position

Bibideba / Hoshimachi Suisei (official)

Suisei Hoshimachi, who’s drawing major attention as a songstress of the VTuber world.

Released in March 2024, this track is a truly magical pop tune produced by Vocaloid producer Tsumiki.

Inspired by the fairy tale Cinderella, it carries a powerful message about breaking free from dull everyday life and shining as your true self.

Its addictive rhythm and catchy melody are sure to lift your spirits just by listening! The music video reached 10 million views in just 16 days after its release, and the dance went viral on social media.

If you want to express yourself freely without worrying about others’ eyes, this song will surely give you a strong push forward.