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

Voice of the Seaurashima tarō (kiritani kenta)71rank/position

"The Voice of the Sea" Full ver. / Urashima Taro (Kenta Kiritani) [Official]

This song became an instant sensation through au’s “Santaro Series” commercials and has since been cherished as a karaoke staple.

Released in 2015 by actor Kenta Kiritani under the name Urashima Taro, it conveys a heartfelt longing for Otohime.

Its emotionally rich world, where the sounds of the sky, wind, and sea are overlapped with the voice of a loved one, deeply resonates with listeners.

The Okinawan-influenced melody crafted by BEGIN’s Yu Shimabukuro blends beautifully with the sanshin played by Kiritani himself, resulting in a piece that feels warmly nostalgic.

In 2016, it topped the annual karaoke rankings for both JOYSOUND and DAM, winning fans across generations.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing and perfect for everyone to hum along together.

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS72rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

This is a song by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS that expresses gratitude as straightforwardly as possible.

Its warm melody, which gently envelops the listener’s heart, is also memorable, and it continues to be loved as a track that prompts us to reflect on our feelings for those who have supported us.

Released in February 2013, the song was chosen as the theme for MBS and GAORA’s broadcast of the 85th Senbatsu High School Baseball Tournament, as well as for Nippon TV’s “Akamru! Scoop Koshien.” The music video features Sanma Akashiya, which drew significant attention.

It’s a song to play when you want to convey your gratitude to someone important or to mark a milestone in life.

MisterKARA73rank/position

KARA – Mister M/V

Known as one of KARA’s signature songs, this track captivated many with its upbeat rhythm and memorable dance.

The lyrics, which depict a proactive approach to romance, set listeners’ hearts racing.

Released in Japan in August 2010, it became a defining song for the group’s popularity.

Its distinctive choreography drew attention and was frequently featured on music shows and in the media.

It’s a recommended pick for women in their 20s who want to liven up a karaoke session.

With a singable vocal range and an easy-to-remember melody, it’s sure to help create a fun time with friends.

Cinderella GirlKing&Prince74rank/position

King & Prince “Cinderella Girl” MV YouTube Edit

King & Prince’s debut single is a work that shines with a magical glow.

Its lyrics, which sing of eternal love for a precious person, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in May 2018, it was used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Hana Nochi Hare: Hanadan Next Season.” In its first week, it sold 577,000 copies and debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

This song is perfect for anyone who wants to be with someone special.

It’s also a great pick when you want to get everyone excited at karaoke!

Meltryo75rank/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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lovelessYamashita Tomohisa76rank/position

250628 Tomohisa Yamashita – Loveless | Jay Chou “Carnival World Tour 2025 – Hong Kong Stop”

This is a solo heartbreak song by Tomohisa Yamashita.

With a gentle melody, it’s an easy song to sing.

As an idol from Johnny & Associates, it’s a ballad popular among women.

The lyrics poignantly express the pain of heartbreak, and it’s a highly recommended track for people in their twenties.

May it be filled with kindnessJUJU77rank/position

JUJU 'So That It Overflows with Kindness'

Singer-songwriter JUJU, known for her soulful voice heard on cover and jazz albums, has garnered support from a wide range of listeners.

Her 9th single, “Yasashisa de Afureru You ni,” was featured in the commercials for “MTV meetalk with NEW NISSAN cube” and the “Friend-Ship Project,” and is recognized as one of her signature songs.

Its straightforward message and emotional melody are sure to draw attention from men at karaoke as well.

It’s a number that women in their 20s will want to sing with feeling—and if you can really belt it out, it’s sure to make you popular.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Baby, I love youTEE78rank/position

TEE – Baby, I Love You

A warm love song by TEE that wraps up the feeling of inviting someone special with the words, “Let’s go on a trip, let’s go see the ocean.” Released in October 2010 and featured on TBS’s music program COUNT DOWN TV as well as in Aoyama Trading’s “Yofuku no Aoyama” commercials, the song gently sings of affection for a loved one over a relaxed rhythm.

The music video features model Mikiko Yano, and the visual beauty crafted by director Takahiro Miki also drew attention.

Beloved as a wedding staple, this track is one you’ll want to hear as it accompanies special moments with someone dear, and warmly resonates with those in love.

Let’s become a familyFukuyama Masaharu79rank/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 Yoko80rank/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.