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

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION22rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite” (M-1 Grand Prix 2024 Promotion Video Theme Song)

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!

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Kubota Mami

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If I sing to the sky175R23rank/position

If I sing to the sky

175R is a rock band that made its major debut in 2003.

They announced a hiatus in 2010, but resumed activities in 2016 and continue to perform at many festivals and play live shows.

When you think of 175R, many people probably think first of this song, Sora ni Utaeba.

The song overall gives the impression of having many long tones, which really bring out vocalist SHOGO’s higher register.

The vocal range spans an octave and a half from F3 to B4, which might feel a bit high for male singers.

That said, the song starts mostly in the lower range, so as long as you can handle the rapid, wordy line at the end of the chorus, it’s a very satisfying song to sing.

It builds even more toward the end with call-and-response parts, so definitely give it a try when you want to hype things up at karaoke.

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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.

MHamasaki Ayumi25rank/position

Ayumi Hamasaki / M

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.

HOWEVERGLAY26rank/position

GLAY / HOWEVER

Released in 1997, this song is beloved by many as one of GLAY’s signature works.

Its bittersweet yet powerful melody and lyrics depicting the fragility of love and life resonate deeply.

It was also featured as the ending theme for the TBS drama “Ryokudatsuai: Abunai Onna,” which brought it even more attention.

If you sing it at karaoke, it’s a song you’ll want to perform in a calm, intimate atmosphere.

It’s especially recommended when you go to karaoke with someone of the opposite sex.

If you channel TERU’s emotionally rich vocals and sing with feeling, it will surely touch the other person’s heart.

For men in their 30s, it might be a song that brings back memories of their youth.

HOT LIMITT.M.Revolution27rank/position

T.M.Revolution – HOT LIMIT｜Official Music Video

T.M.Revolution’s “HOT LIMIT” is the eighth single, released in 1998, and it’s well-loved as a summer staple.

The energetic, digitally driven sound by Daisuke Asakura combined with Takanori Nishikawa’s powerful vocals emphasizes the heat and momentum of summer.

Including the provocative costume and distinctive world in the music video, it leaves the impression of being a signature song for T.M.Revolution.

Among the many commercials it’s been used in, the Mitsuya Cider ad was especially notable, where pairing it with Ichiro’s presence further highlighted the song’s intensity.

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kappamaki

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I’m ProudKahara Tomomi28rank/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.