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

I want to hug you.Mr.Children29rank/position

Mr.Children “I Want to Hold You” Mr.Children [(an imitation) blood orange] Tour

“Embrace Me,” released in 1992 by the nationally renowned band Mr.Children, is a classic distinguished by its warm melody line set to a slow tempo.

Many listeners were surely moved by Kazutoshi Sakurai’s cool vocal performance.

Try singing this pure-hearted love song in front of women in their 20s.

If you can deliver this soulful ballad well, you’ll show a different side of yourself.

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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.

Marigoldaimyon31rank/position

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Singer-songwriter Aimyon is loved by a wide range of generations for her nostalgic melodies and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

Released in August 2018 as her fifth single, this song has become one of her signature tracks, surpassing 300 million streams.

The fact that it achieved such popularity without any tie-in is a testament to the song’s universal appeal.

Layering the peaceful everyday moments with a loved one over radiant memories of summers past, it expresses a powerful desire to never be apart.

The sound is catchy yet tinged with nostalgia, making it an easy crowd-pleaser at karaoke.

It’s a perfect classic for those who cherish time with their partners and for people in their twenties who want to bask in the memories of their youth.

Whimsical Romanticikimonogakari32rank/position

Ikimonogakari “Kimagure Romantic” Music Video

If you’re looking for classic karaoke crowd-pleasers, we recommend Ikimonogakari’s refreshing pop tune.

Released in December 2008, this song was featured in a commercial for the Nintendo DS game “Daigasso! Band Brothers DX.” Its catchy melody, which captures the excitement of being in love, really stands out.

Kiyoe Yoshioka’s clear, soaring vocals are especially captivating.

Give it a listen while reminiscing about days spent with friends or a loved one.

It’s a bright, uplifting track that will put you in a positive mood.

LemonYonezu Kenshi33rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

A song released in March 2018 as Kenshi Yonezu’s eighth single.

Written specifically as the theme for the TBS drama “Unnatural,” it has set an astonishing record with over 900 million views on YouTube.

The lyrics, which express feelings for a loved one who has been lost, portray the pain of bereavement and the bittersweetness of living on while carrying memories of that person, resonating deeply with listeners.

Its bouncy shuffle beat and dynamic melody make it quite challenging to sing at karaoke, but that only heightens the sense of accomplishment when you pull it off.

It’s a masterpiece that’s perfect for creating a reflective mood or livening up the room with a well-known classic.

Spot the differenceSuda Masaki34rank/position

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

In addition to his overwhelming presence as an actor, Masaki Suda also proves his solid talent as a singer.

Released as a digital single in May 2019, this gem of a ballad was written, composed, and produced by Kenshi Yonezu.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Perfect World,” it portrays a protagonist who has long felt like a “mistake” gradually regaining self-worth through meeting someone special.

While expressing the anxieties and doubts that come with love, the song also conveys unwavering feelings for the other person—making it a track that will especially resonate with people in their twenties.

Try listening to it while thinking of someone important to you.

KanadeSukima Suichi35rank/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.