Recommended songs for university students. Classic and popular Japanese songs.

crackTele

Tele | Hibi – Music Video

Singer-songwriter Tele, who has garnered popularity for their genreless musicality.

The piece I’m introducing is included on the album released in April 2025, “How to Love Afterimages, or On Those Several Unmoored Days We Spend to Accept the Distortion in Ourselves Born Therefrom.” This work is captivating for its warmth that gently affirms the emotional wounds and imperfections that arise in everyday life.

Its stylish sound blends pop sensibilities with introspective tones, making it perfect for nights when you want to be alone with your thoughts.

Ms.Sunshinekiki vivi lily

kiki vivi lily – Ms.Sunshine 【Lyric Video】

Singer-songwriter kiki vivi lily, who elevates elements of hip-hop and R&B into soothing pop.

Released in July 2025, this track centers on the theme of “cherished presences that live on in our hearts.” Its lyrics depict the feeling that the precious presences within us—our former selves, irreplaceable friends, and past memories—gently push us forward, resonating softly with many listeners.

The scene-evoking beat co-created with Sweet William intertwines with kiki vivi lily’s delicate vocals, crafting a nostalgic world where past and present overlap.

Game Gang Foreversooogood!

sooogood! “Game Gang Forever” (Official Music Video)

A mid-tempo rock tune with a unique worldview that likens life to a game.

This piece was released as the first entry in a “nearly monthly new song” project that began in February 2022.

The lyrics are sprinkled with words that evoke various games, and their playful spirit is exciting.

Listening to this track might make even tough reports and assignments feel like tackling quests.

Use it as nighttime BGM while you work, and it’ll lift your mood and help you focus.

Nectarorenji supainikurabu

ORANGE SPiCE CLUB “Nectar” Music Video

Orange Spiny Club is a rock band that delicately portrays the struggles of youth and the small emotions of everyday life, resonating with many listeners.

This track is included on their mini-album “Knife,” released in September 2025.

It was inspired by a dream seen by Naoto Suzuki, who wrote and composed the song, and it uses sweet canned juice as a motif to depict memories with friends and a faint first love.

The sense of urgency and wistful longing for days gone by rides on an emotional band sound that hits you right in the chest.

Try listening to it on your way home from school, and you might find that ordinary scenery starts to look special.

Declaration of RomanceKaneko Ayano

Kaneko Ayano – Romance Declaration / Kaneko Ayano – Romance Sengen

It’s a pop song that boldly proclaims one’s own ideal! It’s by the singer-songwriter Ayano Kaneko and is included on her album “Shukusai,” released in April 2018.

The lyrics, which imagine an ideal family plan from the perspective of someone living alone, are utterly charming.

The contrast between her cheerful vocals and the exhilarating, fast-paced band sound is another major draw.

If you listen during an ordinary day or in a quiet moment when you find yourself thinking about the future, you may feel a warmth that validates your muddled feelings.

Happy hourKubota Kai

Happy Hour – Kubotakai (Official Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Kubota Kai, known for his literary lyrics, has released a track in August 2025 that can be called a “cheers anthem,” themed around the happiness of nights spent with friends.

Its rap-rooted, easygoing flow blends with a pop sound, evoking the sparkle of the nighttime city.

With a warm message that affirms the weariness and loneliness of daily life through joyful moments with companions, this song is sure to resonate with many.

It’s a perfect listen for gatherings with college friends or for unwinding on your own.

These guys are available.Nigami 17-sai

Nigami 17-sai MV “These Guys Are Free” (Nigami 17th Birthday!! “koitsura_ aiteru”)

Nigami 17sai is a creative band that’s popular for their “stylish yet pervy” songs.

Many college students are hooked on their one-of-a-kind worldview.

This track is included on the mini-album “Nigami 17sai o,” released in November 2020.

It features a funky, danceable sound and a unique vocal delivery that, though in Japanese, sounds almost like a foreign language.

It’s a recommended song for anyone seeking a fresh musical experience.