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

From Me to Youflumpool50rank/position

flumpool “Kimi ni Todoke” Music Video

The manga Kimi ni Todoke, which was a massive hit from the 2000s into the 2010s.

The song used as the film’s theme song is this track.

Released in 2010 by the rock band flumpool, it’s also known as one of their signature songs.

Its driving rock sound evokes the feeling of sprinting through youth.

It depicts moments overflowing with feelings for someone you love, and may bring back memories of romance from that time.

It’s a number that lets you recapture the nerves of confessing to your crush and the pure, student-era innocence of first love.

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mutō

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I became someone else’s girlfriend.wacci51rank/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.

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Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

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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.

Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterHilcrhyme53rank/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.

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Hoshino Takashi

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User ManualNishino Kana54rank/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.

migratory bird[Alexandros]55rank/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.

rainbow-coloredayaka56rank/position

Ayaka / Nijiiro Music Video

This song is characterized by bright, hopeful lyrics and melody.

Ayaka’s powerful voice fills listeners with courage and energy.

Released as a single in June 2014, it was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Hanako to Anne.” It was later featured in commercials for UQ mobile and Dai-ichi Life, gaining popularity across a wide audience.

It’s also a popular choice for weddings and is perfect for moments you want to share with someone special.

It’s easy to sing at karaoke and is sure to liven up gatherings with friends.