[30s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]

deep forestDo As Infinity71rank/position

Do As Infinity / Deep Forest (Fukai Mori)

Do As Infinity is a male-female rock duo that was hugely active in the 2000s.

While they’re categorized as a rock band, most of their songs are J-pop, and they’ve produced several classics leveraging their catchiness.

Among them, Fukai Mori stands out as one of their signature tracks.

Its vocal range, from mid1 G to hi C#, is relatively narrow and slightly high, suited for female singers, and the tempo is relaxed.

Women in their 30s should be able to sing it without difficulty.

However, because the song leaves a somewhat dark impression, it’s important to pay attention to delivering clear dynamics.

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Ryo

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A life-sized love songAqua Timez72rank/position

Aqua Timez “Life-Size Love Song” Music Video

Aqua Timez, who captivated many fans with lyrics and melodies that resonate with the heart.

This work is a song that deeply expresses the bond and emotions shared with a loved one.

It sings about the importance of showing love not only through words but through actions, and about walking together through life’s ups and downs.

Released in August 2005 as part of the indie mini-album “Sora Ippai ni Kanaderu Inori,” it became a major hit, selling over 800,000 copies.

It was also chosen as the opening theme for the TV program “Ongaku Senshi MUSIC FIGHTER,” helping to raise the band’s profile.

This song, which conveys down-to-earth emotions, is perfect for moments when you want to deepen your bond with someone special or express your feelings honestly.

Secret of my heartKuraki Mai73rank/position

Mai Kuraki 'Secret of my heart'

Despite not being tied to any promotional campaign, her debut single sold over 1.4 million copies and shocked the J-POP scene.

This is Mai Kuraki’s third single.

Chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime Detective Conan, the track reaffirms her overwhelming vocal prowess and expressive power that make you forget she was still in her teens.

The wistful lyrics resonate with the anime’s worldview and likely left a deep impression on many listeners.

Even now, it doesn’t feel dated; for those in their 30s who are of the same generation as Mai Kuraki, it’s a song that will bring back memories of their youth.

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Hoshino Takashi

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HEROAmuro Namie74rank/position

Hero – Namie Amuro (Full)

A signature song by Namie Amuro infused with a positive message that “anyone can become a hero.” Released in July 2016, it was chosen as the theme song for NHK’s broadcasts of the Rio de Janeiro Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Its grand melody and powerful vocals deliver courage and hope to listeners.

The song was also performed when Namie Amuro made a special appearance at the 68th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen in 2017—her first in 14 years—achieving a peak momentary viewership rating of 48.4%.

It’s the perfect track for firing up a karaoke session or boosting your own motivation.

Sing it together with everyone, and you’re sure to feel energized.

SEASONSHamasaki Ayumi75rank/position

SEASONS

This song depicts the boundary between past memories, dreams, and reality through the changing seasons.

Released in June 2000 as Ayumi Hamasaki’s 16th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “Tenkihō no Koibito” (The Weather Forecaster’s Lover).

It topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for two consecutive weeks and became a major hit with total sales of 1.367 million copies.

The journey of overcoming despair and finding hope for the future is conveyed through Hamasaki’s clear, transparent voice, imparting a warmth that resonates deeply.

When the busyness of daily life makes you want to pause and reflect on your own journey, why not give it a listen?

scabChi-wata Hidenori76rank/position

Zatch Bell!! OP Scab AI 4K Chinese-Japanese Subtitles (MAD/AMV) (Memory Series #112)

A motivational song known as the first opening theme of the anime Zatch Bell! (Konjiki no Gash Bell!!).

It features a rock sound with a relatively fast tempo—be sure to lock into the beat with your body to keep up! The overall vocal range is narrow, from F3 to F#4, mostly in the mid range.

Once you find the groove, your timing will fall into place, so stepping your feet forward and back can make it easier to sing.

A key point for this comfortable range is to avoid overusing your throat.

Aim your voice outward as if projecting into the distance; your vocal cords will resonate and you’ll get a satisfying tone.

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Kubota Mami

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loveHoshino Gen77rank/position

Gen Hoshino – Koi (Official Video)

Gen Hoshino’s ninth single, released in 2016, became a social phenomenon as the theme song for the drama “We Married as a Job!” (Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu).

Its up-tempo sound fuses soul and funk, highlighted by a colorful array of instruments including the erhu and strings.

The lyrics carefully depict the joy of returning to a loved one in the midst of everyday life and the preciousness of being by their side, giving a warm push to the couple’s new beginning.

Topping the Billboard Japan Hot 100 for 11 weeks, the song—together with choreographer MIKIKO’s “Koi Dance”—has remained a beloved staple for livening up wedding receptions.

It’s a perfect fit for entrance scenes and performances, a bright, uplifting track that sets a positive tone.