Ranking of Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among People in Their 20s [2026]

Bunny GirlAKASAKI91rank/position

[AKASAKI] Bunny Girl (Lyric Video)

AKASAKI’s hit song “Bunny Girl,” which went viral nationwide.

The vocal range in this track is from mid1 C to mid2 G, which is quite narrow for recent Japanese pop.

There’s a key change in the final chorus, but even so, the overall pitch movement is minimal, making it exceptionally easy to sing.

The vocal line also has gentle rises and falls, so it’s recommended for people who want to get the crowd going even if they’re not very confident in their singing.

If you want to sound more polished, try incorporating overtone techniques to add richness to the low–mid range.

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Ryo

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Matryoshkahachi92rank/position

Hachi MV “Matryoshka” HACHI / MATRYOSHKA

Kenshi Yonezu, now a leading singer-songwriter in the J-POP scene, created “Matryoshka” in 2010 under his Vocaloid producer name, Hachi—a work that had a tremendous impact on the Vocaloid scene at the time.

Set to a thrilling band performance that keeps you on edge with its unpredictable development, the song unfolds with philosophical messages.

Countless “sang it” and “danced it” videos have been made, and many in their twenties may feel a sense of nostalgia.

Harnessing Hatsune Miku’s flexible, expressive voice, its mechanical sound discovered new possibilities for music.

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mutō

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It’s nothing.makaroni enpitsu93rank/position

Macaroni Empitsu “It’s Nothing,” MV

“Nandemonai yo” is a perfect song for wedding BGM.

Its lyrics remind us that the true, irreplaceable happiness lies in the ordinary moments shared with the one you love.

Included on Macaroni Empitsu’s major-label first album, “Happy End e no Kitai wa,” released in January 2022, the song quickly climbed to high positions on various charts right after its release.

It has also been featured in films and on television, earning support from a wide audience.

It’s a recommended wedding song that matches the feelings of newlyweds who want to walk forward while connecting heart to heart, carrying pure affection for their partner.

EXCITEMiura Daichi94rank/position

Daichi Miura / EXCITE -Music Video- from “BEST” (On Sale 2018/3/7) (short ver.)

This is one of Daichi Miura’s signature songs.

It’s a fast-tempo track that became a hot topic in 2017 as a dance number.

Just like the title suggests, the part where the tempo speeds up as the song progresses is the highlight.

It’s the kind of song that makes you want to start dancing just by listening.

evening primroseNovelbright95rank/position

Novelbright – Evening Primrose [Official Music Video]

If you’ve ever been through a farewell that lingers in your heart, you’ll likely feel a piercing empathy with the emotions of this bittersweet ballad.

Released by the rock band Novelbright in December 2020, the song sees vocalist Yudai Takenaka deliver overwhelming vocal power as he sings of lingering feelings and regrets for an unforgettable lover.

Chosen as the theme for the weather segment on Fuji TV’s “Tokudane!” in February 2021 and surpassing 300 million streams, it has captured the hearts of countless listeners.

Its dramatic, piano-driven sound is perfect for a spring night where meetings and partings intersect, when you want to indulge in solitary reflection.

Featured on the album “Kaimaku Sengen,” this masterpiece will gently stay by the side of anyone carrying loneliness.

Like the shining moonSuperfly96rank/position

Superfly “Like the Shining Moon” Music Video

It has become a classic wedding song.

Although the lyrics are written from a woman’s perspective, it’s a track I also recommend to men.

With “gratitude” as its theme, I’d like people who have a long-term partner to give it a listen.

W/X/YTani Yuuki97rank/position

W/X/Y – Tani Yuuki (Official Lyric Video)

The song “W/X/Y,” released by Tani Yuuki in 2021, became a hit.

It’s a love song titled after the male and female sex chromosomes.

It gained buzz on TikTok, reached No.

1 on Billboard’s streaming chart, and ranked No.

3 on the overall chart.

The lyrics overflow with the desire to overcome various challenges together and stay together even as you grow old, which really warms your heart when you listen.

It’s a perfect number for weddings, so definitely consider using it for the end-roll during the exit!

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Hamada Takuya

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Effeminate; overly sentimental; being clingy/whiny (context-dependent)Gōruden Bonbā98rank/position

Golden Bomber “Memeshikute” Music Video

Golden Bomber’s “Memeshikute” has been a massive hit since its 2009 release.

For many people in their twenties, it’s a song packed with memories—like getting hyped with friends at karaoke or performing it at school festivals.

Featured on shows like NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, the track became famous for its catchy melody and distinctive choreography.

Although their air band style was unconventional, the song was beloved by many fans!

SaudadePorunogurafiti99rank/position

Pornograffitti “Saudade” MUSIC VIDEO

This work is characterized by a passionate sound with a hint of Latin flavor and a bittersweet melody that evokes nostalgia.

The lyrics delicately portray the pain of heartbreak, lingering attachment, and melancholy for the past, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in September 2000, it became a popular song that topped the Oricon charts.

It was also featured in Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercials, earning widespread popularity across different age groups.

Packed with the charm of PornoGraffitti, this song is recommended for those who want to overcome a broken heart or fondly remember a past love.

It’s also guaranteed to be a hit at karaoke.

threadNakajima Miyuki100rank/position

Thread – Miyuki Nakajima (Full)

A classic by Miyuki Nakajima that has been covered and cherished by countless artists.

The 2020 film starring Masaki Suda and Nana Komatsu also left a strong impression.

It’s about the miracle born from two people with different personalities and ways of thinking caring for each other.

Listening to it or singing it, you gradually feel grateful and happy about the chance to have met.

It’s also perfect for creating a gentle yet warm atmosphere after an exciting round of karaoke.

Not only with friends—singing it together with a guy you’re interested in will likely wrap you both in a feeling of happiness.

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KEI

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