Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Artists Among People in Their 30s [2026]
J-pop is just like fashion—the trends change rapidly, don’t they?
It’s hard to keep up.
In this article, we’ll introduce Japanese artists popular among people in their 30s.
It’s presented in a ranking format, so I hope you’ll enjoy guessing where your favorite artists place as you read.
- Top Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings by Generation: 30s
- Band rankings popular among people in their 30s [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among People in Their 20s [2026]
- Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Artists Among People in Their 40s [2026]
- [30s] Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers Ranking [2026]
- [30s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]
- An anthem for your 30s. Beloved and popular songs that are both heart-pumping and heart-fluttering.
- [20s] Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Rankings [By Generation]
- For men in their 30s: Nostalgic music. Recommended popular songs
- Band Rankings Popular Among People in Their 40s [2026]
- Top Karaoke Songs That Get 20-Somethings Hyped [2026]
- Ranking of Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Popular Among Teens [2026]
- [40s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]
Most Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among People in Their 30s [2026] (Ranks 11–20)
Shanghai HoneyORANGE RANGE15rank/position
Recently, ORANGE RANGE has enjoyed a cross-generational revival hit and is once again drawing public attention.
They’ve produced many classic songs, and for men in their 30s, every track likely holds special memories.
Among their works, one I especially recommend is Shanghai Honey.
Released in 2003, it was composed on a foundation of the then-trending mixture rock.
It carries a somewhat West Coast vibe, characterized by a laid-back yet distinctly dope feel.
beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)aiko16rank/position
A song that has long been loved in the J-POP scene as one of Aiko’s signature tracks.
The lyrics, which weave the delicate feelings of a woman in love together with the changing seasons, resonate with many listeners.
Released in November 1999 as Aiko’s fourth single, this work laid the foundation for her subsequent music career.
Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars also did a well-known cover.
The gentle guitar arpeggios and Aiko’s clear, translucent vocals leave a strong impression, and it’s a crowd-pleaser at karaoke for all genders.
It’s definitely a song that women in their 30s should consider singing when going to karaoke with men!
MHamasaki Ayumi17rank/position
An iconic song of the 2000s was born.
Its lyrics, portraying deep love and loneliness, resonate with listeners.
Against the backdrop of changing seasons, the protagonist’s emotions are skillfully expressed through encounters and farewells with a loved one.
This work is Ayumi Hamasaki’s 19th single, released in December 2000.
It topped the Oricon chart for two consecutive weeks, with total sales reaching 1.319 million copies.
It was also used in a TU-KA commercial, generating significant buzz.
Many people may find it etched in their hearts along with memories of their youth.
It’s perfect for livening up a karaoke session or for singing with heartfelt feelings for someone special.
RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION18rank/position
A signature song by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, known for its sharp guitar riffs and fast-paced sound.
It was the opening theme for season 4 of the anime Fullmetal Alchemist and reportedly won the Heisei Anisong Grand Prize’s Artist Song Award (2000–2009).
Being from the same generation, I naturally got hooked on it too.
The chorus features prominent shouts, but if you’re using a scoring function, be careful not to overdo the shouting, as it can throw off your pitch.
Since it’s a band-style track, make sure to listen closely to the drums in the background so you don’t fall behind the beat!
Love SongGO!GO!718819rank/position
This work, known as a signature song by GO!GO!7188, a rock band that defined the 2000s, exquisitely matches lyrics that depict a bittersweet love with performances that showcase each member’s individuality.
Released in March 2006, the track has continued to be loved by many fans as one of the band’s defining pieces.
Its slow-tempo rock ballad style is moving even just to listen to.
And if you read the lyrics, they’ll resonate with you even more.
While carrying the ache of unrequited love, the pure feeling of wishing the other person happiness comes through clearly.
If you sing it at karaoke, it’s perfect for moments when you want to express your feelings.
It’s sure to be a song that stirs a man’s heart!
KanadeSukima Suichi20rank/position
“Kanade,” Sukima Switch’s second single, released in March 2004.
It’s a signature song for Sukima Switch and a classic ballad that will surely continue to be loved for years to come.
It’s also known for coloring numerous memorable scenes, such as being featured in the film “Rough” and serving as the ending theme on the final day of “Nettou Koshien” in 2006.
This piece carries not only the sorrow of parting, but also a strong determination to connect with the future through song.
Its earnest message and warm melody are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced saying goodbye to someone dear.
A song that brings tears to your eyes—perfect for a sentimental night.
Ranking of Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among People in Their 30s [2026] (21–30)
That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky1921rank/position
This song, “Ano Kami Hikōki Kumorizora Waatte,” was a huge hit when it was released.
It is 19’s second single, released in 1999.
Although 19 disbanded in 2002 at the height of their popularity, at the time of their formation the popular illustrator 326 was also a member, in charge of visual production and lyrics.
The group even appeared on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen with this song.
It’s widely loved as a youth anthem, and for people in their thirties who spent their adolescence when this song was a hit, it’s likely a particularly nostalgic track.
