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

brand-newSaucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Massara” Music Video (“radiko 15th Anniversary Brand Movie Tie-in Song”) <9th Mini Album “Curry Rice” to be released on 2025.12.17>

A song by the three-piece rock band Saucy Dog.

Chosen as the tie-in track for radiko’s 15th anniversary brand movie, it’s included on their 9th mini-album “Curry Rice,” released in December 2025.

The lyrics, which capture the moment of letting go of hesitation and taking a first step forward, are written in tangible, down-to-earth language without excessive metaphor, offering comfort to listeners in their own everyday lives and decision-making moments.

It’s a rock tune that affirms the feeling of a fresh start.

C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h. [Official Music Video]

This is a stirring rock number by ONE OK ROCK that portrays the fiery bonds between friends charging toward their dreams.

While looking back on the youthful days they spent together, it vows that each will shine on the path they’ve chosen, powerfully pushing listeners forward.

Even if they grow apart, the memories in their hearts remain unfading treasures—an encouraging message that gives courage.

Included on the October 2011 album “Zankyo Reference,” this song is perfect to listen to while cheering on friends as they leap into a new world and salute each other’s efforts.

As an anthem that blows away anxiety and loneliness and helps you face forward, it’s definitely worth checking out!

If you laugh at the skywacci

wacci “If You Laugh at the Sky” Music Video

Let me introduce a motivational song packed with a powerful message: when you feel like crying, look up at the sky and smile.

This track by the five-member band wacci was released digitally in July 2018 and was later included on their album “Gunjo Refrain,” released in November of the same year.

While hard work doesn’t always lead directly to results, the warm perspective that the days you’ve built up are never wasted gently encourages listeners.

Starting in August 2019, it was also selected as the support song for the “Japan Tsunagaru Project” segment on the TV program Mezamashi TV, moving many people alongside the images of those doing their best.

It’s a perfect recommendation for graduation season—an uplifting song that stands by students retiring from club activities and anyone setting out on a new path.

one’s true feelingssumika

sumika / Honne [Music Video] *Theme song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Championship

Released in 2021, this song, “Honne” (True Feelings), was chosen as the theme for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

If you’re a teenager, there’s a good chance you’re pouring your heart into club activities, sports, or chasing your dreams for the future.

This song is sure to resonate with you.

It’s especially recommended for those whose efforts go unrecognized and who feel like their spirit might break.

Your hard work will not be in vain—it will become a strength that carries you forward.

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utatane

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Mahoro in SummerHarukamirai

Harukamirai – Summer Mahoro (Official Music Video)

Harukamirai is a band with the charm of a gentle, straight-ahead rock vibe.

“Natsu no Mahoro” is the lead track from their 2020 album THE BAND STAR.

With lyrics that evoke high school baseball, it’s the very definition of a youth anthem! It’s wonderful how the song embraces not only the youthful days we’re living right now, but also the regrets over things that have already passed.

The sing-along moments create a warm sense of unity that really hits home.

When you want a straightforward summer anthem that resonates with youth, be sure to give this track a listen!

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KEI

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confessionMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Confession (Official Music Video)

This song is included on the 2016 album “Woman’s.” My Hair is Bad is a three-piece rock band from Niigata Prefecture, formed in 2008.

The powerful bass drum instantly grabs your attention.

It’s a wonderful track, with a fast-paced melody by vocalist Tomomi Shiiki that really sticks in your ears.

Tsubasaandāgurafu

Tsubasa

Some of you might find that this song brings back memories of your school days.

Tsubasa, a leading youth anthem of the mid-2000s.

It was their major-label debut single in 2004 and became a long-running hit through cable broadcasts and radio.

It even drew renewed attention in 2020.

Despite its slightly dark atmosphere, its message resonates—about how important people give us strength amid the twists and turns of life, and about standing by encounters and farewells.

Often heard as a song for setting out on a new journey, Tsubasa is a track that gives you the wings to take flight, trusting in a future reunion.

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KEI

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