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

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN29rank/position

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” MV

How about lifting your spirits with a lively tune? This is a signature song by the popular rock band UNISON SQUARE GARDEN, released in May 2015 as their 10th single.

Chosen as the ending theme for the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront, it became a hot topic and marked the band’s first entry into the top five of the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

The funky rhythm, sharp guitar and bass, and Saito’s soaring vocals are simply irresistible! At first glance the song feels poppy and cheerful, but its lyrics portray both the sweetness and bitterness of life.

It’s a wonderful track that blows away everyday frustration and helps you face forward.

Be sure to feel the sound with your whole body!

beetle (specifically, a rhinoceros beetle)aiko30rank/position

aiko - 'Kabutomushi' music video

A gem of a love song that expresses the feeling of falling in love by overlaying it with the changing of the four seasons.

Aiko’s clear, expansive vocals gently embrace you.

The lyrics, which cherish every emotion—from the joys of romance to its bittersweet ache—resonate deeply.

Since its release in November 1999, it has captured many hearts, being chosen as the ending theme for programs like CDTV and Jibireba!?.

With its translucent vocals, this captivating track evokes nostalgic memories of youth.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to feel at peace or look back on precious memories of love.

The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell31rank/position

[Available until July 14, 2025] Bakemonogatari ED “The Story You Don’t Know” supercell Original Audio 4K High Quality Full AAC-LC – 320 kbps

It’s one of supercell’s signature songs, overlaying a bittersweet crush onto a starry night sky.

The lyrics, which portray a romance that ends without the courage to confess the feelings kept in one’s heart, resonated with many listeners.

Released in August 2009 as the ending theme for the anime Bakemonogatari, it peaked at No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and remained in the top 20 for over two months, becoming a long-running hit.

This work is a youth anthem about the faint feelings of love held on a summer night.

It’s a song that brings back memories of friends and someone you once had feelings for.

It’s also a great pick for karaoke!

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro32rank/position

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

Himawari no Yakusoku, popular as a Doraemon movie theme song, gives the impression that a wide range of people sing it.

The overall vocal range is D#3 to A#4, so men should be able to handle it without strain if they sing calmly.

Since it’s a ballad, the melody line is simple and easy to remember, and the more carefully you sing, the more accurately you can hit the notes—making it a good choice for scoring systems.

There are many long tones, so if you focus on the pitch bar and sustain to the end, your score will go up.

For the chorus’s highest note, A#4, lift your facial muscles and aim to produce it easily without forcing or belting—think of delivering it lightly and gently.

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Loverssumika33rank/position

sumika / Lovers【Music Video】

This is “Lovers” by sumika, a song that expresses a man’s feelings but ends up reflecting more of a woman’s view on love than a man’s.

Its pleasantly bouncy rhythm is striking, and despite the lyrical content, it has a bright vibe that seems easy to sing at karaoke.

KanadeSukima Suichi34rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This song is a beautiful ballad that portrays parting with someone dear and the wish to stay connected at heart beyond that farewell.

Released by Sukima Switch in March 2004 as their second single, it features a sentimental sound centered on piano and guitar that truly resonates.

It was used as an insert song for the film “Rough,” the theme song for the drama “Sotsu Uta,” and in 2006 was selected as the ending theme for the final day of “Netto Koshien.” The protagonist’s earnest desire to reach someone through voice and song even when apart mirrors the feelings of junior high school students facing the milestone of graduation.

It’s a track that, while looking back on days with friends, makes you want to cherish those bonds going forward.

Sung as a chorus, it would surely fill the entire venue with warm tears.

silhouetteKANA-BOON35rank/position

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

This song resonates with a refreshing band sound that evokes the feeling of youth.

Released by KANA-BOON in November 2014, it drew attention as the opening theme for the anime Naruto Shippuden.

Its driving rhythm and powerful performance leave a strong impression.

The lyrics, themed around growth, change, and unforgettable memories, express both the brilliance and transience of youth.

It’s also known as a popular karaoke track and is a number that has left a deep mark on people in their twenties.

It’s perfect for livening up gatherings with friends or coworkers.

If everyone sings along together, it’s sure to become a wonderful memory!