Youth songs by Japanese bands. Recommended masterpieces and popular tracks.

PinkieBUMP OF CHICKEN

Pinkie

A gem of a song spun by BUMP OF CHICKEN.

The title’s double meaning—pink cherry blossoms and linked pinky fingers—leaves a strong impression.

Its delicate world, woven from rich strings and piano tones, quietly seeps into the listener’s heart.

The lyrics portray a search for self-identity contrasted with the beauty of cherry blossoms, resonating not only with those in the midst of youth, but also with adults now.

Released in April 2010 as the B-side to the single “HAPPY,” it was performed live for the first time seven years later in September 2017 during the PATHFINDER tour, surprising fans.

It’s a track you’ll want to play at the start of a new season or at life’s turning points.

Stay GoldHi-STANDARD

Hi-STANDARD – Stay Gold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This track, included on the classic album “MAKING THE ROAD,” released in June 1999, is a captivating song that feels like a snapshot of youth.

Driven by exhilarating guitar riffs and powerful drum beats, it instantly wraps listeners in the heat of a live house.

Though the lyrics are entirely in English, they look back on lost dreams and memories with dear friends while conveying the importance of facing forward and living on.

Hi-STANDARD went on hiatus in 2000 but reunited in 2011.

They later released their first album in 18 years in 2017, topping the Oricon charts, and have continued to be supported across generations.

It’s a must-listen not only for adults nostalgic for their youth, but also for young people who are right in the midst of it now.

Samurai HeartSPYAIR

SPYAIR “Samurai Heart (Some Like It Hot!!)”

This song is included on the album “Rockin’ the World,” released in 2011.

It was used as an ending theme for the anime Gintama.

SPYAIR is a four-piece rock band from Nagoya formed in 2005.

The lyrics carry a message of living while loving yourself, weaknesses and all.

With its aggressive melody and soulful vocals, it’s a cool track.

Our JourneyKaneyori Masaru

Kaneyori Masaru [Our Journey] Music Video

When you think of Kaneyori Masaru’s youth anthems, this is the song.

With its poppy melody and sweet, cute vocals, it’s been creating a buzz especially among women in their teens and twenties.

The lyrics, which capture small everyday thrills and memories, are sure to resonate with listeners.

Released digitally in June 2023, it was also chosen as the theme song for the Lemino original drama “Afterschool Embankment Diary.” In February 2024, it was included on their 4th mini album, “With a Heart That Ripples.” The music video features actress Riko, portraying themes of friendship, romance, and the unfading days of youth.

A perfect track to energize any school or cultural festival.

Bring it onKishidan

Kishidan / 'Kenka Joto' MUSIC VIDEO - Short Ver -

This song is one of the anthems of my youth.

When you think of youth, there are kids who grow up straight and narrow, and others who struggle with something and go off the rails.

When you’re young, you can mess up and cause trouble for your parents all you want, but as you become an adult, you can’t keep doing that forever.

That’s why these lyrics feel so bold and cool, and listening to it makes you want to sing and dance along.

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

This is a Ryokuoushoku Shakai song that depicts the brilliance and inner struggles of youth.

Released as a digital-only single in July 2024, it was written as the theme song for ABEMA’s dating show “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita.

Summer Break 2024.” Its upbeat, powerful sound is paired with lyrics that capture young people sprinting forward with everything they’ve got.

The track conveys the importance of living to the fullest within the limited time of one’s youth, resonating with many young listeners.

The music video, featuring a grand collaboration with a 40-piece orchestra, also became a hot topic.

It’s a must-listen for anyone in the thick of their youth.

Eternal BlueHitsuji Bungaku

Eternal Blue – Hitsujibungaku [guitar cover]

There are times when you feel excited and anxious about what kind of adult you’ll become, right? That state of mind is portrayed in “Eien no Blue.” It’s a song written by the rock band Hitsujibungaku for a Docomo commercial.

The fragile yet beautiful vocals of Moeka Shiotsuka delicately express the emotions depicted.

Taken as a whole, the song carries a message that gives you a gentle push toward tomorrow, so it’s perfect for when you want to lift your spirits.

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