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

Liberated zoneASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Liberated Zone'

Crafted by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, this piece is a song infused with a strong longing for freedom.

Set against a backdrop of skyscrapers and industrial districts, it portrays the loneliness and sense of alienation in modern society.

Included on the single “Dororo/Kaibōku,” it was released in May 2019.

It was also selected as the official support song for Fujieda MYFC, earning broad support across diverse audiences.

Its melodic, powerful band sound feels like it’s urging you to break free from suffocation.

Give it a listen when you want to blow away the haze of being trapped in the everyday—it’s sure to resonate with young people in the midst of their youth.

It’s also a perfect track to close out a live performance.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

Starting with a breathtaking guitar riff, this song grabs the listener’s heart and never lets go.

Even now, more than 20 years after its release, it continues to be loved by many.

Released in February 2002, it was also used as an insert song for a drama of the same name.

Set against a fresh yet powerful performance, the lyrics appeal directly to the listener, skillfully capturing memories like a snapshot of youth and the relatable growing pains that come with it.

As one of BUMP OF CHICKEN’s signature tracks, it’s a fan favorite that always energizes live shows.

It’s recommended not only for adults who feel nostalgic about their youth, but also for young people who are right in the midst of it now.

LullabyRADWIMPS

Lullaby - RADWIMPS

This song delicately portrays the brilliance of youth and the bittersweetness of parting.

Its lyrics, filled with kindness and love, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in March 2005, the track showcases RADWIMPS’ distinctive musicality to the fullest.

Yojiro Noda’s clear, pure vocals blend beautifully with the band’s performance.

It’s especially recommended for the start of a new school term or graduation season.

For those experiencing new encounters or farewells, this song offers comfort and the courage to look ahead.

Listen to it with the warmth of spring, and your heart is sure to dance.

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.

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.

ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Chessboard [Official Video]

Chessboard reached 1 million views on the video site in just one week after its release.

As expected from Official HIGE DANDism, it’s a song filled with heartfelt feelings toward youth.

Since this track has been chosen as the set piece for the Junior High School Division of the 90th NHK National School Music Competition, it looks like it will be a song sung for a long time to come.

The lyrics, which say, “On a chessboard, the footing is fixed in black and white, but we want to choose our own path,” are quintessentially a Hige Dan–style anthem for youth.

And of course, it’s a must-listen even if you’re no longer in your youth!

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.