In honor of the tenth anniversary of Apple Music, which first launched on June 30, 2015, the streaming service has unveiled a list of its top 500 most-streamed tracks. Among these songs, only one anime-related track made the cut: “Idol” by YOASOBI. Additionally, the list features seven artists from Japan, showcasing a blend of local talent and international appeal. Below, you will find a detailed list of these artists and their respective songs.
Apple Music’s Most Streamed Songs by Japanese Artists
- “Yoru ni Kakeru” by YOASOBI – Ranked #91
- “Dried Flower” by Yuuri – Ranked #147
- “Pretender” by OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM – Ranked #199
- “Kaiju no Hanauta” by VAUNDY – Ranked #275
- “Idol” by YOASOBI – Ranked #291
- “Marigold” by Aimyon – Ranked #363
- “Gunjou” by YOASOBI – Ranked #415
- “Subtitle” by OFFICIAL HIGE DANDISM – Ranked #428
- “Ao To Natsu” by Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Ranked #440
- “Hakujitsu” by King Gnu – Ranked #471
Apple Music’s Overall Top 10 Most Streamed Songs
- “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran
- “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
- “God’s Plan” by Drake
- “Sunflower” by Post Malone and Swae Lee
- “rockstar” (featuring 21 Savage) by Post Malone
- “One Dance” (featuring Wizkid & Kyla) by Drake
- “SICKO MODE” by Travis Scott
- “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
- “No Guidance” (featuring Drake) by Chris Brown
- “bad guy” by Billie Eilish
In addition to the above, recent achievements in the Japanese music scene have been remarkable. Mrs. GREEN APPLE made history as the first J-Pop group to surpass 10 billion streams within Japan for their entire catalog, a milestone highlighted in a recent Billboard report. Meanwhile, YOASOBI achieved a historic first by becoming the initial Japanese act to receive a Double Diamond certification from the RIAJ (Recording Industry Association of Japan) for their hit song “Yoru ni Kakeru.”
While anime often serves as an entry point for many fans into Japanese music and culture, the minimal direct influence of anime on Apple Music’s most popular songs may be a positive development for some industry insiders. Concerns have been raised about the tendency to associate the global expansion of Japanese music too closely with anime. Takuya Chigira, the manager for the rising star Ado, shared his apprehensions regarding this issue earlier this year.
Chigira expressed a significant concern, stating, “We can’t rely solely on anime. When viewed against the backdrop of mainstream entertainment—music and sports on a global scale—anime remains a niche form of entertainment. However, when we consider the global market share of Japanese music, anime represents a substantial segment. By capitalizing on this, we can achieve results that exceed normal expectations. Nonetheless, given the potential market size for music, the limitations of anime are apparent. I have a growing concern about the idea that we should approach everything through the lens of anime, causing Japanese music to become synonymous with it. It’s essential to be aware of the competitive landscape we are engaging in.”
Chigira further indicated that he believes Japanese artists have yet to fully explore the global stage for touring. He highlighted Ado as a potential ambassador for J-Pop on international platforms, asserting that she holds the distinction of being the sole Japanese artist capable of winning a significant Grammy award. Currently, Ado is on her world tour titled “Hibana,” which is making its way through North America this month before heading to Latin America in August.
The producer of YOASOBI, whose international touring efforts have also garnered attention, shared insights in April regarding their continued dedication to overseas performances, even in the face of financial losses. This commitment underscores the determination of these artists to broaden their reach and introduce their music to a global audience.
As the landscape of music continues to evolve, it is clear that Japanese artists are making significant strides both domestically and internationally. The emergence of platforms like Apple Music allows for greater visibility and accessibility, bringing Japanese music to a wider audience. This growth not only highlights the talent within Japan but also showcases the potential for these artists to thrive beyond their home country.
The increasing popularity of J-Pop and related genres is evident in the streaming numbers and accolades being awarded to these artists. As they continue to navigate the complexities of the global music industry, it will be interesting to observe how they adapt and respond to the challenges they face.
In conclusion, the achievements of Japanese artists on platforms like Apple Music mark a significant moment in the evolution of J-Pop and its impact on the global music scene. The interplay between traditional genres, modern influences, and the rise of digital platforms is reshaping how music is consumed and appreciated worldwide. The future looks promising for these artists, and their journeys will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of musicians.
As the music industry continues to change, it’s crucial for artists to maintain their unique identities while also embracing opportunities for growth. The challenge lies in balancing local influence with global aspirations, and the artists who can navigate this landscape will likely be the ones to make significant contributions to the music world in the years to come.
