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

One million “I love you”sRake50rank/position

Rake "One Million Times 'I Love You'"

This song passionately sings of a love so deep it moves the heart.

Released in March 2011 as Rake’s third single, it was also featured in a Yokohama Tires commercial.

Its refreshing acoustic guitar–based sound and lyrics that directly express feelings for a loved one leave a strong impression.

It captured many hearts, remaining in the TOP 30 of USEN’s overall J-POP chart for an entire year from November 2010 to November 2011.

It’s a perfect song for confessing your feelings or for weddings—any moment when you want to convey your love to someone special.

Why not let your loved one listen to it?

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO51rank/position

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

SHISHAMO’s hit song “Ashita mo.” The key change in the chorus feels incredibly satisfying, and thanks to its exhilarating vibe, this J-rock number gained popularity nationwide.

The vocal range is standard, spanning mid1F# to hiC.

The highest note, hiC, appears frequently in the chorus, so it’s a song that requires a bit of stamina.

If it feels tough, try lowering the key.

If the lowest notes are hard to hit, you can alternatively shift them up to around mid1G#.

It’s a track that’s sure to hype up any J-rock fan, so definitely consider adding it to your repertoire.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

SenbonzakuraKurousa-P52rank/position

"MV" Senbonzakura WhiteFlame feat. Hatsune Miku

This work, notable for its Japanese-style rock sound and a world that evokes the Taisho Romantic era, is a signature VOCALOID piece by KuroUsa-P.

Set in a time when Western and Japanese cultures fused, it skillfully depicts the contrast between technological progress and tradition, as well as the struggles people faced amid rapid social change.

Released in September 2011, the song was included on the album “1st Anniversary Album ALL THAT Senbonzakura!!,” and numerous arranged versions were produced.

In 2015, Wagakki Band’s cover was broadcast on television, and that same year Sachiko Kobayashi performed it in a special segment on NHK’s Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

With its driving melody and incorporation of traditional Japanese elements, the song continues to be cherished—especially by younger audiences—as a piece that resonates with nostalgic memories.

I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci53rank/position

wacci “I Became Someone Else’s Girlfriend” Music Video

Wacci, known for delivering music that fits closely with everyday life, sparked buzz with “I Became Someone Else’s Girlfriend,” whose lyrics are written from a woman’s perspective.

She breaks up with “you” to face forward and for her own shining future, becoming someone else’s girlfriend.

Yet, pulled back by memories of how she could be her true self with “you,” she can’t help comparing her current boyfriend to you—something many listeners can relate to.

The climax, depicting the moment when she can’t hold back the feelings that overflow despite wanting to forget quickly, is enough to make you cry.

Try listening while thinking of the “you” you still can’t forget.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

Report a problem

migratory bird[Alexandros]54rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

Released in June 2015, many of you probably listened to this song often during your school days.

It carries a powerful message that gives listeners courage by contrasting loneliness with hope.

It has been used as a movie theme song and in commercials, and has been loved by a wide audience.

It’s also popular at events like sports days and school festivals, and it’s a hit at karaoke.

It’s recommended when you need the courage to carve out your own path or when you want to start a new challenge.

Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterHilcrhyme55rank/position

Hilcrhyme – “Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter” Music Video

Hilcrhyme is a music duo that has gained popularity with a sound that fuses hip-hop beats and delicate textures.

Their major second single, “Shunkashuto,” landed numerous tie-ins and became the track that brought the name Hilcrhyme to a wide audience.

As the title suggests, its message centers on the four seasons, emotionally portraying time spent with someone special.

It’s a hip-hop number with a relaxed shuffle beat that feels great—one that men in their twenties, the group’s generation, in particular will want to sing.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

User ManualNishino Kana56rank/position

Kana Nishino “Torisetsu” MV Full

Kana Nishino’s 27th single, written as the theme song for the film “No Longer Heroine.” The lyrics, which depict the delicate feelings of women—perhaps a bit hard for men to fully grasp—through the unique lens of an “instruction manual,” resonated widely.

Opening with words of gratitude, the song rides a bright country-pop melody to express a wish to be accepted fully, moodiness and all.

Released in September 2015, it was also included on the acclaimed album “Just LOVE,” and went on to win both the Excellence Award and the Grand Prize at the 57th Japan Record Awards the same year.

Beloved as a wedding staple, it’s a perfect number to help convey your feelings to someone special.