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

Meltryo78rank/position

Hatsune Miku "Melt"

Ryo, an artist who is also a central figure of the creator collective supercell, has been drawing a lot of attention.

His song “Melt,” which became a massive hit with over 10 million plays, is a famous track also known for its many covers by various singers.

The lyrics, which straightforwardly depict romantic feelings, paired with a piano-forward, fast-paced ensemble, evoke a refreshing rush that brings back memories of youth.

For those in their 20s who grew up with Vocaloid music, it’s a crisp, invigorating pop tune that’s sure to get you hyped.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Dried flowersYuuri79rank/position

Yuri “Dry Flower” Official Music Video - Director’s Cut ver. -

A signature song by Yuuri that beautifully portrays the memory of a bittersweet love.

It delicately expresses the pain of heartbreak and the healing power of time by likening them to dried flowers.

Centered around warm acoustic guitar tones, his emotive vocals resonate deeply.

Released in October 2020, it garnered overwhelming support from younger generations, especially on social media.

The track is also included on Yuuri’s first album, “Ichi.” It’s a perfect choice for men in their 20s to sing at karaoke.

Anyone with experiences of love or heartbreak will surely relate.

It’s a surefire crowd-pleaser for large gatherings, such as drinks with friends or workplace socials.

Let’s become a familyFukuyama Masaharu80rank/position

Masaharu Fukuyama – Let’s Become a Family (Full ver.)

“Let’s Become a Family,” a perennial wedding favorite, is also highly popular.

Released in 2011 as a double A-side single alongside “fighting pose,” the song drew further attention when it was featured in a commercial for the wedding magazine Zexy.

Although there are a few parts—such as the chorus and the ending—where the key goes a bit higher, it’s fundamentally a song in which men with lower voices can really showcase their vocal appeal.

With its gentle, unhurried tempo and flowing melody, it’s easy on the ears, helps you get into the song, and is exceptionally easy to sing.

Try it at karaoke, or practice it and sing it at a friend’s wedding.

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SAKI

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A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko81rank/position

“Cruel Angel’s Thesis” MUSIC VIDEO (HD ver.) / Zankoku na Tenshi no Te-ze “The Cruel Angel’s Thesis”

This song powerfully portrays a story of youth and growth.

Yoko Takahashi’s clear, soaring vocals vividly express young people’s potential and hope.

Depicting youths who face an unknown destiny, the lyrics symbolically capture their radiance as they overcome hardship.

Released in October 1995, it was used as the opening theme for a smash-hit anime.

At karaoke, singing it with friends or coworkers can help you share memories of your younger days and hopes for the future.

It’s a perfect track for times when you want to believe in your own potential or deepen bonds with your companions.

Yes, with pleasure.kocchi no kento82rank/position

Sure thing / Kocchino Kento MV

Released in 2024, this song became a social phenomenon: the “Giri-Giri Dance” went viral on social media, and it even broke into the top 20 on the Billboard Japan charts.

Kocchino Kento’s sensibility shines through in lyrics born from his own struggles with mental health—spoken head-on yet wrapped in just the right touch of humor and a pop sound that keeps things from getting too dark.

The message embedded in the lyrics—“If you feel at your limit, it’s okay to ask for help”—feels like an anthem for all of us living in the present day.

For karaoke, there are a few slightly fast-paced parts, but with a bit of practice you’ll get the hang of it quickly, and since it’s a song everyone knows, it’s guaranteed to get the crowd going.

If you sing it while copying the dance with your friends, it’s even more fun!

Blue BenchSasuke83rank/position

Blue Bench / Sasuke

This is a song that left a lasting mark on many hearts as a youth anthem of the 2000s.

It poignantly sings of regret and lingering feelings for a lost love, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released independently in 2003, it achieved the remarkable feat of selling over 2,000 copies in just two months.

When it was released nationwide in April 2004, it reached a peak position of No.

8 on the Oricon singles chart.

It was also used as the theme song for the drama “WATER BOYS 2,” which brought it even more attention.

It’s a highly recommended track for those who want to revisit their school-days romances or reflect on feelings for someone special.

FlowerFuji Kaze84rank/position

Hana

Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze, whose talent drew attention even before his major-label debut and who now dominates the J-pop scene with his urban musicality.

His 14th digital-only single, “Hana (Flower),” was written as the theme song for the TV drama “The Most Favorite Flower.” Its lyrics convey a message of someday letting your own unique flower bloom, offering comfort to those who feel lost or troubled.

It’s an emotional number, with a stirring melody carried by a piano that is both rich in depth and light on its feet.

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Hoshino Takashi

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