Nursery Rhyme Popular Song Rankings [2025]

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN22rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

Formed by four childhood friends, BUMP OF CHICKEN is a rock band known for its classic yet experimental sound and lyrically powerful messages.

This is their third single.

Inspired by the song, the TV drama “Tentaikansoku” (Stargazing) used it as an insert track, bringing BUMP OF CHICKEN to widespread recognition.

The intro—crafted with eight guitars to evoke a shooting star—stirs anticipation and exhilaration for summer nights the moment you hear it.

Lyrics that sing of hope and uncertainty for the future ride on a driving rock sound, vividly calling back memories of youth.

I became someone else's girlfriend.wacci23rank/position

wacci “I Became Someone Else’s Girlfriend” Music Video

This is a song by wacci that sings of a woman’s aching heart as she chooses love for her own sake.

Haven’t you ever tried desperately to tuck a past relationship away as a memory, telling yourself that your current partner is more wonderful than the one you broke up with? Created by vocalist Yohei Hashiguchi, the piece skillfully contrasts a present love that makes you overreach with a past love where you could be yourself, portraying a wavering state of mind with finesse.

After its digital release in August 2018, it spread by word of mouth and became a long-running hit, surpassing 100 million streams.

Even though she’s decided they’ll never meet again, the final lines let her true feelings slip out—so real they strike straight to the heart.

HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number24rank/position

back number – HAPPY BIRTHDAY (full)

Don’t birthdays feel a little bittersweet when you’ve got an unrequited crush? In moments like that, the music of back number, a three-piece rock band from Gunma Prefecture, gently keeps you company.

It’s a night spent longing to hear “Happy birthday” from the person you like.

The protagonist’s frustration—able to think of silly small talk, yet unable to say the one thing that matters—really tugs at your heart.

Released in February 2019 as their 20th single, this song also made waves as the theme for the TV drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love.” It’s perfect for those nights when you’d rather step away from the circle cheering “Happy birthday!” and sink into your feelings alone.

Or maybe you could sing it at karaoke and let them notice how you really feel.

.

.

that might just work!

Villainparticles (te-ni-wo-ha)25rank/position

Villain / flower・Teniwoha

An expressive track that draws you into its downer mood.

Released in February 2020, this piece by Teniwoha features v_flower’s decadent vocal work that leaves a strong impression.

The sonic blend of a distinctive beat and guitar sounds is highly addictive, and the lyrics—centered on a transgender theme—cut deep into contemporary society.

I think it will especially resonate with anyone wanting to reexamine their true self!

Promise of SunflowersMotohiro Hata26rank/position

Motohiro Hata – “Himawari no Yakusoku” Music Video

When you listen to Motohiro Hata’s beautiful singing voice, it feels as if your heart is being cleansed, doesn’t it? This piece, perfectly suited to his clear vocals, is a comforting ballad featuring the gentle tones of acoustic guitar and a warm melody.

The lyrics portray a deep bond with a loved one, conveying that hearts remain connected even when apart.

Released in August 2014, the song drew significant attention as the theme for the film STAND BY ME Doraemon.

Many listeners were likely moved to tears by its touching worldview, which resonates with the friendship depicted in the movie.

It’s a song that can gently embrace your heart when you’re feeling vulnerable or when you want to find calm.

Happinessback number27rank/position

Shiawase

“Shiawase,” included as the B-side to back number’s debut single “Hanabira,” is a track whose string-featured, wistful arrangement tightens the chest.

Many listeners will likely relate to the lyrics’ storyline, which evokes the image of someone stepping back for the sake of a loved one.

Although it’s sung by a male vocalist, the key is high, making it an easy number for women to sing at karaoke.

Bunny GirlAKASAKI28rank/position

[AKASAKI] Bunny Girl (Lyric Video)

AKASAKI, who went viral on TikTok and gained nationwide popularity, is likely a very familiar artist to many teens, being of the same generation.

Their fourth single, released in October 2024 while still in high school, is a stylish work that blends the vibe of Showa-era pop with a modern sound.

The song centers on the fragile emotions that sway at the beginning of a romance.

By taking on the role of a “bunny girl” as night falls, it deftly portrays the hesitation and inner conflict of revealing one’s true self to another.

The track made a major impact beyond being just a social media hit, reaching No.

6 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

It gently accompanies the complex emotions of love, so give it a listen on nights when you want to be alone with your thoughts.