ZARD Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Don’t give upZARD1rank/position

"Don't Give Up" Music Video

Among classic J-pop songs, “Makenaide” is a top recommendation if you’re looking for a track that’s especially easy to play on drums.

J-pop drums often feature unexpectedly tricky phrases or complex structures, so many songs aren’t straightforward.

But this one is built from three simple beat types and has a relaxed tempo, making it approachable.

The first is the intro/chorus beat with eighth notes on the ride cymbal and quarter-note snare.

The second is the basic straight eighth-note beat that appears in the A section, and the third is an eighth-note groove in the B section where the bass drum on beat 3 is anticipated on the “and” of 2—a beat you often hear in J-pop.

All of them are simple, fundamental patterns, so even beginners might be able to play them right away.

Since the song has a laid-back tempo, be careful not to rush; keeping it grounded will give you a solid, confident groove and make your performance sound even cooler!

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Hane Keisuke

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eternityZARD2rank/position

[ZARD] Eien | 1997

Released in 1997, it was the theme song for the drama “Shitsurakuen.” The overall vocal range is F3 to C#5.

It’s a gently narrated ballad, and even if you’re not confident with high notes, you can definitely pull it off if you sing carefully.

The chorus has challenging pronunciation and high notes, but the key is to create ample space inside your mouth to let the sound resonate.

Try not to use your throat; it’s good if you can produce an “n” sound with a humming sensation.

At this point, it can be tricky without using your breath, so imagine sustaining all the breath you inhale as a continuous hum.

Also, clearly articulating vowels is important.

That will make your voice crisp and your words easier to understand.

In the chorus, sing with higher energy.

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Kubota Mami

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Open your heartZARD3rank/position

Open Your Heart (Music Video)

A song in which Izumi Sakai’s clear, transparent voice permeates the heart.

Released in 1996, it was featured in Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat commercial and became beloved by many listeners.

The lyrics portray feelings about past love and emotions, emphasizing the importance of opening one’s heart.

In the chorus, Sakai’s distinctive vocal style heightens the emotion and truly moves you.

With themes of lost love and self-reflection, it’s a song that can give you courage when you want to take a new step forward or overcome past experiences.

My friendZARD4rank/position

My Friend (What a beautiful memory 2008)

A signature number by ZARD, famously known as the ending theme of the TV anime SLAM DUNK.

The lyrics woven by Izumi Sakai carry both the warmth of watching over “you” who keeps running straight ahead and the poignancy of a relationship that might one day change—each listen is enough to make your heart swell.

Released in January 1996 as their 17th single and opening the album TODAY IS ANOTHER DAY, this song became a million seller and is etched in the hearts of many fans.

It’s a perfect cheer song for those pivotal moments of youth—like retiring from a club activity or at a graduation ceremony.

Why not sing it at karaoke with friends you haven’t seen in a while, reminiscing about those days? Its unfading melody will surely bring those feelings from back then vividly back to life.

Just a little more… a bit more…ZARD5rank/position

ZARD A Little More, Just a Little More… [live]

The 9th single “Just a Little More…” was used as the ending theme for the TV drama Lullaby Detective ’93.

Its lyrics, which depict a forbidden romance, brim with a heartrending poignancy, heightened by the lyrical melody and ensemble.

The song is easy to sing thanks to its narrow vocal range and relaxed tempo, but you need to be careful not to miss the pitch, as the chorus starts abruptly on a high note.

If you sing it calmly, it’s a number that feels great to perform even at karaoke, so why not give it a try?

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Hoshino Takashi

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Turn the roulette of fateZARD6rank/position

SARD UNDERGROUND 'Spin the Roulette of Fate' MV

A supreme song woven from lyrical lyrics that capture the subtleties of life and a light, buoyant melody.

While questioning the role of fate’s coincidences and the meaning of our choices, it gently reminds us of the importance of facing forward and living on.

Composed by Seiichiro Kuribayashi, it beautifully harmonizes ZARD’s heartwarming message with a fresh, breezy sound.

Since its release in September 1998, it has been beloved as an opening theme for the anime Detective Conan and was also included on the album ZARD BEST The Single Collection: Kiseki.

It’s an encouraging anthem recommended for those who, even amid uncertainty, want to take a step forward and for anyone who wishes to move ahead without fearing change.

I’ll surely never forgetZARD7rank/position

I’ll surely never forget

A song characterized by its translucent vocals and lyrics that resonate with the heart.

Released in November 1993, it is ZARD’s 10th single.

Izumi Sakai’s delicate voice beautifully conveys a sense of bittersweet emotion.

While carrying themes of parting and loneliness, the song emphasizes the importance of holding on to hope.

It has long been loved as one of ZARD’s signature tracks and is also included on the album “ZARD Forever Best ~25th Anniversary~.” When facing heartbreak or a crossroads in life, listening to this song may soothe your heart.

It’s also recommended for moments when you want to look back on memories with someone special.