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

I want to be your lover.Abe Mao57rank/position

Mao Abe – I Want to Be Your Lover [Official Music Video]

How about a heart-wrenching love song that passionately sings of a straightforward, bittersweet unrequited love? It’s one of singer-songwriter Mao Abe’s signature songs, released in 2009 as her second single.

Carried by a mid-tempo guitar rock sound, her honest voice and feelings shine through—any woman in love right now won’t be able to help but relate.

It’s also known as a staple for band covers, meaning it features an approachable, easy-to-sing melody line.

Maybe singing this song is a good way to convey your feelings to the person you like.

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Araki Jakkan

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Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA58rank/position

LiSA – Gurenge / THE FIRST TAKE

This is the song that was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba and sparked a social phenomenon.

It’s LiSA’s 15th single, released in 2019.

The song’s structure, which exquisitely weaves together intense rock sounds with quiet sections, is captivating.

The lyrics, which sing of the protagonist facing a harsh fate and an unyielding will that won’t bend to any hardship, are sure to stir listeners’ hearts.

The chorus, where her high-tone vocals explode, is nothing short of breathtaking.

It’s guaranteed to get everyone pumped if you sing it at karaoke.

Ojamajo Carnival!!MAHO dō59rank/position

Ojamajo Doremi opening theme song “Ojamajo Carnival!!” full high quality audio

MAHO-dou’s debut song invites you into a fun, magical world.

Released in March 1999 as the opening theme for the anime Ojamajo Doremi, its lyrics are packed with the excitement of the moment when mysterious power wells up and the thrill of leaping out of everyday life.

In 2019, the song won the Heisei Anisong Grand Prize for Best Character Song.

For many women in their 20s, it might be a nostalgic favorite.

Sing it at karaoke and the atmosphere will instantly liven up.

Belt it out with your friends and make some joyful memories!

sense of shameshuuchishin60rank/position

sense of shame

This song is a classic that celebrates the courage to move forward without fearing failure.

The catchy line that everyone’s heard at least once really stands out, and it’s guaranteed to hype up any karaoke session! Released in April 2008, it became explosively popular as a ringtone even before the CD came out.

It was such a massive hit that it turned into a social phenomenon, achieving one million units in just two weeks.

It’s also included on the album “WE LOVE Hexagon.” It’s the perfect track to sing at large-group karaoke, like after-work drinks or class reunions.

If everyone sings and dances together, it’s sure to become an unforgettable memory!

The world is smiling at you.Little Glee Monster61rank/position

Little Glee Monster 'The World Is Smiling at You' Short Ver.

There are plenty of men who like women who sing refreshing, upbeat songs.

If you’re looking for that kind of track, I recommend Little Glee Monster’s “Sekai wa Anata ni Waraikaketeiru” (“The World Is Smiling at You”).

Its music video, which has a sports theme, is memorable, so I think it will go over really well with men who enjoy watching sports.

It’s also a great one to try harmonizing with your female friends.

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Saitō Ayumu

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cherrysupittsu62rank/position

Spitz / Cherry

When it comes to Spitz’s signature songs about parting and setting out on a new journey, this classic surely comes to mind.

Released in April 1996, it became a massive hit single, selling over 1.613 million copies.

With memories of a loved one held close, it portrays the moment of taking a step toward a hope-filled future, and its fresh yet slightly bittersweet melody feels like a pleasant spring breeze.

Many listeners were likely moved by the straightforward lyric about feeling stronger just from the sound of words of love.

The song is also included on the acclaimed album Indigo Chiheisen, and in recent years it was featured in an NTT East commercial.

It’s a popular pick for picnics and is sure to make the start of a new season all the more wonderful.

My cutest partFRUITS ZIPPER63rank/position

[MV] FRUITS ZIPPER - My Cutest Part

This song by FRUITS ZIPPER is characterized by lyrics that boost self-esteem and a bright, upbeat melody.

It conveys the importance of recognizing and valuing your own charm.

Released as a digital single in April 2022, it became a huge hit on TikTok.

The number of plays has surpassed 900 million, capturing the hearts of many.

It’s perfect for people in their 20s, and is recommended for times when you want to reflect on yourself or get an energy boost.

It also sounds like a lot of fun to sing along with friends and get hyped together.