Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Artists Among People in Their 30s [2026]

summer festivalWhiteberry22rank/position

Whiteberry “Summer Festival” MUSIC VIDEO

For many women in their early 40s, when thinking back to songs that were nationwide hits during their 20s, this “Natsu Matsuri” likely comes to mind.

It’s a piece known for its extremely catchy melody, but I imagine many people feel it’s hard to sing because of the high pitch.

While the song certainly stands out for its height, its overall vocal range isn’t particularly wide.

If you adjust the key, even those who find it hard to project their voice should be able to sing it without any issues.

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Ryo

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Tsubasaandāgurafu23rank/position

Tsubasa

A rock ballad depicting youthful farewells and new departures.

Released on September 22, 2004, it was Under Graph’s major-label debut single, and many people of that generation surely got hooked on Tsubasa! The overall vocal range is E3 to A4, which should be comfortable for men who sing regularly.

If you’re aiming for a high karaoke score, the key is to keep the high notes in the chorus steady and balance power with a touch of wistfulness.

Since the lyrics are clearly articulated, focusing on crisp vowel pronunciation will also help you match the pitch bar more easily.

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Kubota Mami

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MiracleGReeeeN24rank/position

GReeeeN – Kiseki

When it comes to youth anthems, you just can’t leave this one out! Released in May 2008 as the theme song for the drama “ROOKIES,” GReeeeN’s signature track “Kiseki” is a pure love song that celebrates the joy of meeting the person you love and the resolve to walk into the future together.

True to its title, the lyrics call the couple’s meeting a “miracle” (kiseki) and describe the path they’ve walked as a “trace” or “trajectory” (also kiseki)—a wordplay that stirs the heart every time you listen.

In 2009, it was also chosen as the entrance march for the National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament, making it beloved across generations.

It’s a moving song you’ll want to play at graduations, thank-you parties, and those final moments with dear friends or a loved one, to express your gratitude.

HONEYL’Arc〜en〜Ciel25rank/position

L’Arc～en～Ciel「HONEY」-Music Clip-

This song portrays a sweet yet dangerous romance, characterized by a simple and powerful band sound.

It’s one of L’Arc~en~Ciel’s signature tracks and was released in 1998 as their 10th single.

The striking music video—featuring a white snake, a golden setting, and a blonde woman licking honey—also became a hot topic.

Its irresistibly catchy melody and beat are captivating, earning it a place as a karaoke classic beloved across generations.

This track is guaranteed to liven up any party.

It’s perfect for when you want to relive your youth or sing along with everyone and have a great time.

fragileEvery Little Thing26rank/position

Every Little Thing / fragile

Feelings that pass each other by—things don’t always go smoothly.

But it’s a pure love song that sings, “I want to stay with you forever.” It’s one of the signature tracks by the music duo Every Little Thing, released as their 17th single in 2001.

If you watched the dating reality show “Ainori” back then, it might bring back memories.

Kaori Mochida’s clear, expansive vocals are wonderful.

Even many years after its release, it still ranks high in karaoke charts, likely because it’s so easy to sing.

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Araki Jakkan

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INVOKE -Invoke-T.M.Revolution27rank/position

T.M.Revolution – INVOKE -Invoke- | Official Music Video (TV Anime “Mobile Suit Gundam SEED” Opening Theme Song)

Characterized by powerful vocals and energetic music, this T.M.Revolution work is a masterpiece that resonates deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, filled with hopes and wishes for the future, portray people who strive to move forward despite loneliness and pain.

Released in October 2002, the song was used as the first opening theme for the anime Mobile Suit Gundam SEED and garnered significant attention.

Paired with the epic story, it captured the hearts of many fans.

It’s also perfect for karaoke—belt it out with friends from the same generation, and you’re sure to spark excitement along with a wave of nostalgia.

On the hill where the moon is visible tonightB’z28rank/position

B'z / At the Hill Where the Moon Is Visible Tonight

It was the theme song for the drama “Beautiful Life: Futari de Ita Hibi,” released in 2000.

Thanks in part to the drama’s success, this song is also widely known and even became a million seller.

B’z are acclaimed not only for their hard-hitting tracks but also for ballads like this.

“Calling,” released in 1997, is also a ballad, though it starts intensely and then suddenly quiets down.

In contrast, this song gradually builds from the beginning, making it easy to listen to naturally without feeling overbearing.