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

evening primroseNovelbright96rank/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 moonSuperfly97rank/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 Yuuki98rank/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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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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