Top Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings by Generation: 30s

I’m ProudKahara Tomomi36rank/position

Tomomi Kahala - I’m Proud

A masterpiece of self-affirmation from 1996 and one of Tomomi Kahala’s signature songs, featuring a powerful yet wistful melody and emotionally rich lyrics.

It vividly portrays a protagonist grappling with loneliness and anxiety who confronts herself and reexamines her identity through encounters with others.

Chosen as the song for a TBC commercial, it also led to an appearance at that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

This legendary track reached No.

2 on the Oricon weekly chart and topped the annual karaoke rankings.

Though it’s a song that tests one’s vocal ability, it’s highly recommended for moments when you want to boost your confidence or take a new step forward.

EverythingMISIA37rank/position

MISIA – Everything （Official HD Music Video）

This is the seventh single by MISIA, known as one of Asia’s leading singers, wielding an emotional voice and expressive power spanning a five-octave range.

Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Yamato Nadeshiko,” it was released in October 2000 and became a massive hit, recording the highest sales among singles by female artists released in the 2000s.

Its ensemble featuring ethereal strings and soulful vocals still radiates timeless appeal.

It’s a double-million-selling track that has also become a karaoke staple.

if…DA PUMP38rank/position

DA PUMP / if… (short ver.)

Released in September 2000, this song is quintessentially DA PUMP.

The lyrics, themed around love and farewell, express deep feelings for the other person and anxieties about the future.

Using the darkness of night and the light of the moon as symbols, the striking choice of words portrays a struggle against fate and the passage of time.

It was also used in a Sharp “Mebius” commercial, leaving a lasting impression on many listeners.

This work showcases DA PUMP’s ballad side, characterized by a catchy melody and profound emotional expression.

The dance performance for the ballad is cool and captivating as well.

When you find yourself at a crossroads in love or life, why not listen to it as a song that can support your heart?

bouquetback number39rank/position

back number – Bouquet (Short ver.)

Buck Number is a band you want to sing softly and coolly at karaoke.

Their warm vocals and the melodies they create are truly dramatic in every song.

The realistic feel of their lyrics is wonderful too, and karaoke is the perfect place to let those lyrics shine.

Their romantic lyrics make many girls think, “I want someone to feel this way about me.” Put your own feelings into it and give it a try!

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Murakami Shinpei

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The strong and fleeting onesCocco40rank/position

Cocco “The Strong and Ephemeral Ones” Music Video

Cocco is a female singer-songwriter who was active from the late 1990s to the 2000s.

She is known for a style that incorporates alternative rock and grunge into J-pop, and she excelled at soft, delicate vocals.

Among Cocco’s songs, the one I especially recommend is “Tsuyoku Hakanai Monotachi” (“The Strong and the Fragile”).

The vocal line has gentle rises and falls, and the range isn’t very wide, so even women in their 30s with lower voices can sing it without any trouble.

Consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Ryo

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CHE.R.RYYUI41rank/position

YUI　『CHE.R.RY-short ver.-』

This is YUI’s eighth major-label single, written with a modern take on the heart-fluttering thrill of unrequited love.

Released in March 2007, it became widely known as the CM song for au by KDDI’s “LISMO!” The lyrics vividly capture youth communication of the time—emoji in mobile emails, the timing of replies—and overflow with pure feelings for someone so strong there’s no room for mind games.

The message about the bittersweet start of love will bring back the thrills of youth just by listening.

With light acoustic guitar and YUI’s clear, transparent vocals evoking the freshness of spring, this pop number is sure to be a hit at girls’ nights and karaoke.

KanadeSukima Suichi42rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

“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.