Top Japanese Pop Karaoke Rankings for Men [2026]

budKobukuro43rank/position

Kobukuro – Tsubomi

Released in March 2007 as the 14th single, this masterpiece was newly written as the theme song for the drama “Tokyo Tower: Mom and Me, and Sometimes Dad.” Created by Kentaro Kobuchi in memory of his late mother, the song won the Excellent Work Award at the Japan Record Awards and was also selected as the entrance march for the 80th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

Like a tiny bud before it blooms, it warmly portrays the power of growth even in an unfinished state, along with heartfelt gratitude to the loved ones who always cheered us on.

It is a gentle song that, when you remember someone precious you can no longer meet, lets you feel that they are still watching over you from somewhere.

single-minded; wholehearted; devoted; earnestKing Gnu44rank/position

King Gnu – Ichizu

A song that brilliantly captures unwavering feelings for someone and the sometimes painful, complex emotions that come with them.

Its heavy sound and dramatic development leave a strong impression, with King Gnu’s signature meticulous arrangements and high-level musicianship shining throughout.

Released in December 2021 as the theme song for the anime film Jujutsu Kaisen 0, it topped Oricon’s annual combined single rankings.

The alternating vocals of Satoru Iguchi and Daiki Tsuneta resonate with each other, heightening the sense of earnest emotion.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when your feelings overflow for someone, or in moments when you want to face a loved one.

Spot the differenceMasaki Suda45rank/position

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

A song by Masaki Suda marked by soul-stirring lyrics and an emotional melody.

Released in May 2019 as the theme song for the TV drama “Perfect World,” it explores the search for “mistakes” and “right answers” in life, expressing a desire to find value in the small moments of everyday living.

Its simple yet profound message resonated with many, and the track achieved major success, winning 50 crowns across various streaming platforms.

With a low key and a modest vocal range, it’s easy to sing, but in karaoke, focusing on dynamics will help showcase your charm even more.

HOWEVERGLAY46rank/position

GLAY / HOWEVER

This classic song by GLAY is filled with feelings for a loved one.

Its poignant yet powerful vocals and heart-touching melody are truly captivating.

While lamenting that the meeting with their beloved came too late, the lyrics also express that precisely because of that lateness, they can cherish the happiness they have now—something many listeners can relate to.

Released in 1997 and later used as a TV drama’s ending theme, this piece has continued to be beloved as a staple in live performances.

If you sing it at karaoke when you want to convey your feelings to someone special, it will surely resonate with them.

Why not try singing it while imagining GLAY’s soul-stirring vocals?

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE47rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

The opening theme song for the TV anime “Oblivion Battery.” In karaoke, it’s a challenge-type rock number where a sense of speed and stable high notes are the keys to a high score! You’ll use both chest voice and falsetto, and the transitions can feel tricky, but because falsetto makes it easier to hit the right pitches, singing it naturally can really boost your score! Also, the melody line is surprisingly simple and easy to follow.

There’s a section in triple meter partway through, so be sure to lock in with the rhythm.

If the range feels high, adjust the key to what’s comfortable for you—another tip for aiming at a perfect 100! Try singing lightly without straining your voice too much.

Voice of the SeaUrashima Taro (Kenta Kiritani)48rank/position

"The Voice of the Sea" Full ver. / Urashima Taro (Kenta Kiritani) [Official]

The hit song “Umi no Koe” was born from an au commercial.

It was composed by the Okinawan band BEGIN, and the vocals are sung by Kenta Kiritani, who plays Urashima Taro.

Since Kiritani is primarily an actor, the vocal line is crafted to be very simple.

While the arrangement doesn’t particularly emphasize the low register, you can sing from the first verse through the chorus using a resonant, overtoned delivery that adds fullness.

It’s recommended for those who want to emphasize thickness rather than sheer depth.

catDISH//49rank/position

cat

“Neko,” the signature song by DISH//, written and composed by Aimyon.

The acoustic version performed on THE FIRST TAKE in 2020 became a huge hit and was also used as the theme song for TV Tokyo’s drama “Neko.” Lots of people used to sing it in vocal training, so it feels nostalgic.

When singing it in karaoke scoring mode, be careful not to put in too much emotion.

On the other hand, if you sing it too flat, your expressiveness will drop, so sing with a sense of contrast and accents.

Since the chorus is structured to build gradually, it might be good to approach it with the image of singing each phrase clearly!