[20s] Popular Japanese Music and J-POP Rankings [By Generation]

peace signYonezu Kenshi8rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

This is a song by Kenshi Yonezu that stirs the heart with its powerful vocals and exhilarating sound.

Produced in June 2017 as the opening theme for the first cour of Season 2 of the Yomiuri TV–affiliated anime “My Hero Academia,” it resonates with the desire to become stronger on nights spent crying over one’s own inadequacy, and with the resolve to become a hero to protect someone important.

The contrast between high and low registers carefully expresses emotional shifts, so when singing, it’s best to pay attention not only to pitch but also to dynamics and phrasing.

GO!!!FLOW9rank/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 Kōji10rank/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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Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze11rank/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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The BeginningONE OK ROCK12rank/position

ONE OK ROCK – The Beginning [Official Music Video]

ONE OK ROCK is a four-member rock band that now represents Japan’s rock scene and enjoys popularity overseas.

Their 7th single, “The Beginning,” which was used as the theme song for the film Rurouni Kenshin, kicks off with a chorus over a piano and guitar ensemble that immediately amps up the energy.

The powerful melody riding on the fast-paced rock sound is sure to hype up any karaoke session.

However, the key is higher and the melody more intricate than it sounds, so make sure to practice thoroughly beforehand to sing it coolly at karaoke.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number13rank/position

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

This timeless song about aching love shines in karaoke.

One of back number’s signature tracks, it delicately conveys the complex feelings of a man with an unrequited crush.

Many will relate to the protagonist, who can’t find the courage to speak up in front of the woman he admires.

Released in June 2013 and included on the album “Love Story,” it has remained beloved over the years.

In 2019, it was also featured in a Kirin Beer commercial.

It’s a perfect song for men in their twenties wrestling with love.

Sing it at karaoke, and you might showcase your delicate sensibility.

bouquetback number14rank/position

back number – Bouquet (full)

A love song that portrays a man trying to convey his many feelings for her, like a “bouquet” where various flowers come together.

Although the protagonist doesn’t give a clear answer to the girl who voices her anxieties, he actually cares for her more deeply than anyone else.

The lyrics capture the heart of a man who can’t bring himself to express those feelings honestly.

The structure interweaves parts that feel like a conversation between the protagonist and his girlfriend with parts that sing of the protagonist’s inner thoughts, making his emotions come through more vividly and realistically.

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HATSUMI

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