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

Karakuri Pierrot40mP78rank/position

[Hatsune Miku (40mP)] Karakuri Pierrot [Original]

A Vocaloid song that sings of aching love and resonates in the heart.

Composed by 40mP, a leading figure in the Vocaloid scene, it was released in July 2011.

Its sound is characterized by a piano-centered arrangement, and the lyrics revolve around the theme of unrequited love.

The melody is approachable and doesn’t venture into extremely high ranges, so it should be easy for women to sing.

If you’re troubled by love, why not let this song keep you company?

Cinderella BoySaucy Dog79rank/position

Saucy Dog “Cinderella Boy” Music Video <5th Mini Album “Lazy Sunday” Released on 2021.8.25>

This is a poignant song that portrays the pain and inner conflict of love.

Released by Saucy Dog in August 2021, it sharply expresses actions that go against one’s true feelings and the sense of betrayal within a romantic relationship.

Written from a female perspective, the lyrics skillfully depict the protagonist’s complex emotions as she struggles with the gap between ideals and reality.

While pop and melodious, the track carries a bittersweet atmosphere and unfolds with the band’s signature rock sound.

It gained major popularity especially among young people, ranking second in the 2022 annual karaoke charts.

It’s a perfect song for those who want to share the anguish of love, as well as for high school students looking to have fun with friends.

Otona Blueatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu80rank/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 likeJY81rank/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.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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summer squallarashi82rank/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 Kenshi83rank/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.

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Hoshino Takashi

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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.