[20s] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number15rank/position

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

This timeless song about aching love shines in karaoke.

One of back number’s signature tracks, it delicately conveys the complex feelings of a man with an unrequited crush.

Many will relate to the protagonist, who can’t find the courage to speak up in front of the woman he admires.

Released in June 2013 and included on the album “Love Story,” it has remained beloved over the years.

In 2019, it was also featured in a Kirin Beer commercial.

It’s a perfect song for men in their twenties wrestling with love.

Sing it at karaoke, and you might showcase your delicate sensibility.

Dear BrideNishino Kana16rank/position

[Wedding Reception Performance] 2017.03.18 Requested Video_Kana Nishino - Dear Bride

This is Kana Nishino’s 29th single, “Dear Bride.” It’s a song that expresses cheers, gratitude, and honest feelings for a friend who’s getting married.

When a close female friend is about to get married, you might feel, “I’m happy for you, but I’m also a little lonely…

Still, let’s keep being close from now on!” Singing with that feeling is sure to get everyone excited.

A Little Love SongMONGOL80017rank/position

MONGOL800 / A Small Love Song

A straightforward love song by MONGOL800, a rock band from Okinawa.

Its pure lyrics remind us just how precious the people close to us truly are, touching the hearts of many.

Released in September 2001 and included on the album MESSAGE, which sold over 2.8 million copies, the song spent 14 consecutive weeks at No.

2 on the Oricon karaoke chart.

Its enduring popularity is evident in its use as the ending theme for the TV anime Teasing Master Takagi-san and as a motif for a 2019 film.

Put it on as driving music, and you’ll find yourself singing along under the blue sky.

My WayDef Tech18rank/position

Def Tech – My Way【Official Music Video】

Def Tech is a reggae duo consisting of Shen from Hawaii and Micro from Tokyo, and their hit song is “My Way.” Released on their 2005 debut album, it was featured in a Yokohama Tires commercial.

Despite being an indie release, the album was a massive hit, reaching No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It also ranked high on karaoke charts for a long time.

It has a lot of English and might be a bit challenging, but the positive lyrics and laid-back beat are really pleasant—so definitely give it a try!

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The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell19rank/position

[Available until July 14, 2025] Bakemonogatari ED “The Story You Don’t Know” supercell Original Audio 4K High Quality Full AAC-LC – 320 kbps

It’s one of supercell’s signature songs, overlaying a bittersweet crush onto a starry night sky.

The lyrics, which portray a romance that ends without the courage to confess the feelings kept in one’s heart, resonated with many listeners.

Released in August 2009 as the ending theme for the anime Bakemonogatari, it peaked at No.

5 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and remained in the top 20 for over two months, becoming a long-running hit.

This work is a youth anthem about the faint feelings of love held on a summer night.

It’s a song that brings back memories of friends and someone you once had feelings for.

It’s also a great pick for karaoke!

SubtitleOfisharu Higedan Dism20rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Subtitle [Official Video]

A heart-touching ballad that portrays the difficulty of expressing love in words and the fragility of feelings that melt away like snow.

Released digitally in October 2022 as the theme song for the drama “silent,” the song expresses the earnest attempt to convey one’s feelings of love through a delicate, piano-centered melody.

It achieved its first overall No.

1 on Billboard JAPAN’s JAPAN HOT 100, and surpassed 21 million streams.

When you’re frustrated because you can’t put your feelings for someone special into words, this song is sure to be by your side.

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN21rank/position

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” MV

How about lifting your spirits with a lively tune? This is a signature song by the popular rock band UNISON SQUARE GARDEN, released in May 2015 as their 10th single.

Chosen as the ending theme for the anime Blood Blockade Battlefront, it became a hot topic and marked the band’s first entry into the top five of the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

The funky rhythm, sharp guitar and bass, and Saito’s soaring vocals are simply irresistible! At first glance the song feels poppy and cheerful, but its lyrics portray both the sweetness and bitterness of life.

It’s a wonderful track that blows away everyday frustration and helps you face forward.

Be sure to feel the sound with your whole body!