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

Only for you, clear skiesYorushika36rank/position

Yorushika – Just Clear Skies for You (MUSIC VIDEO)

A Yorushika song characterized by translucent vocals and lyrics that capture the bittersweetness of youth.

Its melody evokes summertime scenes, and the narrative-rich lyrics unfold from two perspectives—the “me” in memories and the “me” in the present—captivating many listeners.

Included on the mini-album ‘No Encore for the Loser,’ released in May 2018, it was also used as BGM for the opening VTR of a comedy live show in December 2019.

Sing it at karaoke with friends or coworkers, and it will surely spark shared nostalgia and empathy.

Why not immerse yourself in Yorushika’s world and express your feelings for someone special through song?

Goodbye ElegySuda Masaki37rank/position

Masaki Suda “Sayonara Elegy”

This is a striking track with straightforward lyrics and a powerful mid-tempo rock sound.

Masaki Suda’s husky, masculine voice further accentuates the bittersweet feelings of a breakup.

Released in February 2018, the song drew major attention as the theme for the drama ‘Kiss that Kills.’ The lyrics and composition were handled by Huwie Ishizaki, a close friend of Suda.

Fully expressing Suda’s unique style, the piece has garnered support across generations.

It’s recommended not only for those who have experienced heartbreak or separation, but also when you want to feel the bond with someone important.

PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism38rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]

This is the second single by Official HIGE DANDism, released in 2019.

It was written as the theme song for the film The Confidence Man JP: Episode of the Romance and has become widely recognized as a signature song for the band.

The lyrics portray the sorrow of an unrequited love, realistically expressing the pain of a relationship that cannot come true despite deep affection for the other person.

The protagonist’s yearning for a different meeting under different circumstances—and the struggle to accept the reality that it won’t happen—really hits home.

The beautiful piano melody and dramatic sound further amplify those emotions.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who’s experienced heartbreak in love or wants to sing with real feeling.

Belt it out at karaoke and it’s guaranteed to get the crowd going.

crescent moonayaka39rank/position

Ayaka – Crescent Moon

A heartwarming song that sings of the bittersweetness and hope of a long-distance relationship.

Released in 2006, it’s beloved by many as one of Ayaka’s signature works.

It was featured as the theme song for NHK’s program “Mirai Kansoku Tsunagaru TV @ Human” and used in au’s “LISMO” commercial, making it popular across a wide range of ages.

Through the image of a crescent moon, it beautifully expresses the feeling that hearts remain connected even when apart.

For people in their twenties, it’s no exaggeration to call this a defining song of their generation.

Give it a listen and let it take you back.

366 daysHY40rank/position

HY – 366 Days (Official Music Video)

HY’s song, which delicately sings about the pain of heartbreak, is included on their 2008 album “HeartY.” Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Akai Ito” (Red Thread), the track is distinguished by lyrics that portray the bittersweet feelings of a woman after a breakup.

The unwavering love embedded in the words and the wish to be loved again resonate deeply.

Sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to strike a chord with anyone who’s experienced heartbreak.

How about giving it a try at karaoke with friends or colleagues while reminiscing about old memories?

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE41rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

Set to a lively rhythm and a catchy melody, this song vividly sings of the sweet-and-sour, bittersweet feelings of youth.

Its message—embracing even our imperfections and the pains of the past—resonates deeply.

Released in April 2024 and chosen as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery,” the track won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

It marks the first-ever back-to-back win by a band in history.

While aiming to return to the roots of guitar rock, it shines with technical, standout riffs.

Brimming with positive energy, it’s a song that supports anyone who has experienced the struggles and growing pains of adolescence.

Unrequited loveAimer42rank/position

Aimer “Kataomoi” MUSIC VIDEO (FULL ver.)

“Kataomoi” has a distinctive rhythm and leans more toward “speaking” than “singing,” but this song was often sung by one of my voice-training students who wasn’t confident in singing and didn’t have a very wide range.

If you’re going to sing it, you’ll probably struggle with the rhythm first, so practice by listening to the song over and over.

Aside from the chorus, you don’t need to worry too much about pitch at the beginning.

If the rhythm doesn’t lock in first, it’ll feel off when you sing, so pay attention to where the phrases are cut and when each entry comes in, and maybe start with humming.

Humming will help you carry that same feeling into light singing, letting the sound resonate between your eyebrows without tension.

Once you’re used to it, keep that resonance in the brow area and shift into your singing voice.

If you can keep resonating in the same spot while you sing, you’ll capture a really nice vibe!

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Kubota Mami

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