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

CHE.R.RYYUI15rank/position

YUI　『CHE.R.RY-short ver.-』

The song I’d recommend for a scene where people in their twenties reminisce about their youth is “CHE.R.RY.” It was released in 2007 by the singer-songwriter YUI and is known as one of her signature tracks.

Some listeners may feel nostalgic about the au by KDDI “LISMO!” commercial it featured in.

The song portrays a cute crush—liking someone but not quite being able to take that first step—and evokes the sweet-and-sour feeling of youthful days.

Its lively sound features bright synth tones.

Why not give it a listen as you look back on the romances of that time?

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mutō

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lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE16rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

Set to a lively rhythm and a catchy melody, this song vividly sings of the sweet-and-sour, bittersweet feelings of youth.

Its message—embracing even our imperfections and the pains of the past—resonates deeply.

Released in April 2024 and chosen as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery,” the track won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

It marks the first-ever back-to-back win by a band in history.

While aiming to return to the roots of guitar rock, it shines with technical, standout riffs.

Brimming with positive energy, it’s a song that supports anyone who has experienced the struggles and growing pains of adolescence.

Love so sweetarashi17rank/position

ARASHI – Love so sweet [Official Music Video]

There’s a perfect song for those in their twenties who spent their youth in the 2000s to early 2010s: Arashi’s “Love so sweet.” Released in 2007, it was beloved by many as the theme song for the hit drama Boys Over Flowers 2 (Hana Yori Dango 2).

With Arashi’s signature pop melodies and catchy sound, it still resonates with countless listeners today.

It’s a nostalgia-packed track that brings back memories from that time.

With its gentle, refreshing vibe, the song is sure to give listeners energy and hope.

Only for you, clear skiesYorushika18rank/position

Yorushika – Just Clear Skies for You (MUSIC VIDEO)

A Yorushika song characterized by translucent vocals and lyrics that capture the bittersweetness of youth.

Its melody evokes summertime scenes, and the narrative-rich lyrics unfold from two perspectives—the “me” in memories and the “me” in the present—captivating many listeners.

Included on the mini-album ‘No Encore for the Loser,’ released in May 2018, it was also used as BGM for the opening VTR of a comedy live show in December 2019.

Sing it at karaoke with friends or coworkers, and it will surely spark shared nostalgia and empathy.

Why not immerse yourself in Yorushika’s world and express your feelings for someone special through song?

Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze19rank/position

Shonan no Kaze “Junrenka” MUSIC VIDEO (Original ver.)

Shonan no Kaze is a four-member reggae group that electrifies audiences with fiery performances.

Their 5th single, “Junrenka,” became a long-running hit as a straightforward love song, different from the upbeat tunes typically associated with Shonan no Kaze.

For those in their twenties—when romance tends to be a major factor in daily life—the lyrical lines are easy to relate to and make it natural to sing with feeling.

It’s an emotional number we hope you’ll sing at karaoke with someone special or someone you’re interested in.

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Hoshino Takashi

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GO!!!FLOW20rank/position

FLOW “GO!!!” Music Video (TV Anime “NARUTO” Opening Theme)

This song captivates with its energetic sound and uplifting lyrics.

Released in April 2004, it was chosen as the fourth opening theme for the popular anime NARUTO.

Loved by fans as one of FLOW’s signature tracks, it strongly serves as an anthem for challengers, emphasizing the importance of forging your own path.

It debuted at No.

6 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and stayed in the top 10 for three consecutive weeks.

For people in their twenties, it’s a track that resonates with childhood memories.

Among anime songs, it remains especially popular.

Give it a listen when you need a boost of energy or when you’re ready to take on something new.

Butter-FlyWada Kōji21rank/position

Butter-Fly – Kouji Wada (Full) (Digimon Adventure OP)

Back then, nothing could beat the excitement when this song first started playing on TV.

It’s “Butter-Fly,” the iconic debut single by Kouji Wada and the very first opening theme of the anime Digimon Adventure, released in 1999.

True to a series starring boys and girls, the lyrics and melody are straightforward and burning with passion! Listening to it might bring back memories of your younger, purer self.

The chorus just makes you want to sing along! It’s a timeless anthem—a true monument in the world of anime songs.

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Araki Jakkan

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