Recommended Japanese Music Artists and Popular Song Rankings for Men in Their 20s [2026]

I’m going to Tokyo.Yoshi Ikuzo57rank/position

I'm going to Tokyo.

This is the breakout song of the nationally beloved enka singer, Yoshikazu “Yoshi” Ikuzō.

It’s said to be a self-deprecating tune that humorously exaggerates the rural life of his hometown, Kanagi in Kitatsugaru District, Aomori Prefecture, and it became hugely popular.

The lyrics apparently captured a lot of relatable moments from that era, and it seems many of them were based on real stories!

KANPAI FUNKWada Akiko58rank/position

Akiko Wada – KANPAI FUNK

Akiko Wada, a singer who’s also highly active on variety shows.

Her track “KANPAI FUNK” is her new single, and it drew attention for its contemporary musicality, something different from her past work.

Riding the revival trend, it incorporates a funky 1970s sound, but the song structure is pop in a way often heard in Vocaloid music.

Since Akiko Wada’s vocal range is about as low as a man’s, I think it’s easy for men in their 20s to sing.

Be mindful of the groove when you sing it.

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Ryo

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backlightSakamoto Maaya59rank/position

Maaya Sakamoto “Backlight” Music Video (Short ver.)

The strings create a dreamy atmosphere.

It’s sung by Maaya Sakamoto, who is also popular as a voice actress, film actress, and radio personality.

Released in 2018 as her 29th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the smartphone game Fate/Grand Order – Cosmos in the Lostbelt.

Recommended for men who enjoy games and anime.

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Araki Jakkan

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cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai60rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Sakuranbo

A pop song overflowing with the joy and happiness of love.

It portrays the everyday life of a couple in their second year of dating and sings about the importance of smiles and bonds.

Like the fruit that inspired its title, the song compellingly conveys the pair’s intimacy.

Released in December 2003, it was chosen as the opening theme for TBS’s COUNT DOWN TV.

It also achieved numerous accolades, including winning the Best New Artist Award at the 46th Japan Record Awards in 2004.

With its bright, catchy melody and relatable lyrics, it’s perfect for people in their twenties who want to get the crowd going at karaoke.

Combined with Ai Otsuka’s clear, translucent vocals, it’s a track that leaves you feeling pleasantly uplifted.

3-minute ramen cookingOtsuka Ai61rank/position

Otsuka ai 라면 3분요리

This track is perfect for making instant cup noodles.

The song is three minutes long—the same amount of time it takes for cup noodles to be ready.

When you have cup noodles with friends or your girlfriend, I hope you pour in the hot water and enjoy these three minutes by listening to this song.

SunnyYasuda Rei62rank/position

Rei Yasuda “Sunny” Music Video (Fuji TV Tuesday 9 pm drama “An Inherently Human, Minimal Life” opening theme)

It’s the theme song for the drama “An Encouragement of Climb: A Healthy and Cultural Minimum Standard of Living.” It’s sung by Rei Yasuda, a U.S.-born singer who is also active as a fashion model.

It was released as a single in 2018.

Her gentle vocals slip softly into your heart.

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Araki Jakkan

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Tonight is Boogie Back (nice vocal)Ozawa Kenji feat. Suchadarapaa63rank/position

Kenji Ozawa featuring Scha Dara Parr – Tonight is Boogie Back (nice vocal)

This is “Konya wa Boogie Back,” a collaboration between singer-songwriter Kenji Ozawa and the hip-hop group Scha Dara Parr.

It’s got funny bits and parts everyone can sing along to, making it perfect for livening up a karaoke session! Its uniquely mellow vibe is somehow sultry and wonderful.

If you can nail the rap perfectly, you’re guaranteed to be a hit!

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Yoimachi Jēn

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