Popular Wedding Song Rankings [2026]

Old-fashionedback number64rank/position

back number – Old Fashion (full)

Released in November 2018, this back number track—known for its poignant lyrics and melody—was chosen as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love” (Dairenai ~ Boku wo Wasureru Kimi to).

Centered on the theme of love, the lyrics convey both a powerful longing for the other person and a sense of self-affirmation, earning widespread support, especially among young listeners.

The emotions in the lyrics mirror the drama’s content, stirring deep feelings in those who listen.

It’s also popular as wedding and reception background music, recommended for anyone who wants to express their feelings for someone special.

Showcasing the emotive expression characteristic of back number, this song continues to be cherished by many fans.

A melody instead of a bouquetShimizu Shota65rank/position

Shota Shimizu 'A Melody Instead of a Bouquet' MV (Full Size)

A love song by Shota Shimizu that gives voice to the unspoken feelings of lovers separated by distance.

Chosen as the theme song for the NHK drama “Designer Baby,” it resonated deeply with viewers.

Instead of a bouquet, he offers a melody; instead of an embrace, he sends his voice.

The lyrics, imbued with such bittersweet emotions, leave a lasting impression.

Released in October 2015 and included on the album “PROUD,” the song drew renewed attention in 2020 when it was used in a routine by a female comedian.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to sing at weddings or during a proposal.

Shota Shimizu’s warm vocals are sure to gently embrace the love between two people.

Banzai ~ So glad I loved you ~Urufuruzu66rank/position

Ulfuls – Banzai ~I'm Glad I Fell in Love~

The signature song of Ulfuls is a positive message tune that expresses deep gratitude and joy toward a loved one.

Released in January 1996, the track is included on the album “Banzai” and became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.

Its lyrics celebrate the small happinesses of everyday life and the bonds with those we hold dear, making it perfect as BGM for weddings and anniversaries.

It was also used in a Fujicco commercial, and in the film “UDON,” Tortoise Matsumoto and Yusuke Santamaria perform it as a duet—proof of its enduring popularity across generations.

When you want to share life’s joy and gratitude, this song is sure to resonate with your heart.

CheersNagabuchi Tsuyoshi67rank/position

Cheers

This is a song often performed at major life events such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.

It was created as the title track of the third album released in September 1980, and has since become a staple that Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi always sings at his live concerts.

In 1988, a re-recorded single version became a major hit.

It has continued to be loved by many, being showcased with special staging on music programs such as the Kōhaku Uta Gassen and the FNS Music Festival.

Characterized by a relaxed tempo and a simple melody, it’s a song that anyone can sing comfortably.

The lyrics, imbued with support and congratulations for those stepping onto a new stage in life, resonate deeply with listeners.

If everyone joins in a grand sing-along at karaoke after the event, it’s sure to create a moving moment that brings the whole venue together.

HappyPharrell Williams68rank/position

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Video)

It’s a song packed with a cheerful rhythm and a positive message.

Just listening to it makes your heart dance and your body start to move.

Pharrell Williams’s distinctive vocals further enhance the song’s vibe.

Released in November 2013, this track was produced for the soundtrack of the animated film Despicable Me 2.

It became a worldwide hit, achieving the remarkable feat of topping the U.S.

Billboard chart for 10 consecutive weeks.

Use it as background music for a memory video, and it will undoubtedly wrap the entire footage in a bright, fun atmosphere.

It’s also a perfect choice for looking back on memories with friends.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo69rank/position

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

A beloved masterpiece by Yo Hitoto that gently sings a prayer for loved ones and a wish for peace.

Released in February 2004, it has soothed many hearts with her unique sensibility as a Japanese-Taiwanese artist and her clear, transparent voice.

Using the flower—an emblem of Japan–U.S.

friendship—as its motif, the song expresses bonds with precious people and hopes for a happy future.

It was featured as the theme song for NTV’s Tuesday Suspense Theater and in JRA commercials, and set a record by staying on the Oricon Weekly Singles chart for 125 consecutive weeks.

Whether in moments of aching love or parting, or at life’s milestones such as weddings and graduations, it remains a song that shines without fading.

Thank youikimonogakari70rank/position

Ikimonogakari 'Arigatou' Music Video

A heartwarming classic that portrays the beauty of expressing gratitude directly to someone you cherish.

It tenderly weaves in the gentleness conveyed by holding hands and the bonds that deepen through everyday life together.

The way an individual dream gradually becomes a dream for two, and the sincere exchange of feelings—awkward yet earnest—makes it a perfect fit for a wedding.

Released in May 2010 as Ikimono-gakari’s 18th single, it was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Gegege no Nyobo.

Loved widely alongside the drama’s massive success, it won the Excellence Award at the 52nd Japan Record Awards.

It’s often chosen as background music for entrance scenes at wedding receptions or when reading letters to parents, wrapping the entire venue in a warm atmosphere.