[Rhythm Play] A roundup of popular cup songs
Have you heard of “Cups,” which is hugely popular around the world, especially among younger generations?
It’s a game that originated from Anna Kendrick’s song “Cups.” The rules are very simple: you move a cup and clap your hands in time with the music.
For some reason, though, it’s oddly satisfying and addictive.
With a bit of practice, you’ll pick it up quickly.
Why not try playing along to your favorite songs, using the cup song list in this article as a reference?
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[Rhythm Games] Popular Cup Songs Compilation (11–20)
Zankyo SankaAimer
Zankyo Sanka was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc.
The song is glamorous and fast-paced, and since it’s a popular anime song among children, especially elementary school students, featuring it in class would likely be a hit.
Skip the very beginning of the track for now, and first make sure everyone learns the rhythm well.
Then keep the beat using handclaps, desks, or cups.
As the song progresses, add more movement, and during the chorus, try passing or switching cups—adding slightly more complex actions makes it even more fun.
Screen DoorRich Mullins
This is a cup-song arrangement of “Screen Door,” released in 1987 by American Christian music singer Richard Wayne Mullins.
It’s included on the album “Pictures in the Sky.” The performers showcase a high-level technique by playing cups while singing in perfect sync as a trio.
Their joyful ensemble is especially memorable.
Fome comePalavra Cantada
This is a children’s cup song by Palavra Cantada, released in 1998.
It’s made up of simple, repeating phrases that seem doable with a little practice.
It’s a song that people of all ages, from adults to children, can enjoy.
A Little Love SongMONGOL800
When it comes to MONGOL800’s signature songs, it has to be “Chiisana Koi no Uta” (A Little Love Song)! Since its 2001 release, it’s been covered by many artists and is an extremely popular track known even among today’s elementary school students.
If you’re playing cups, you want to pick a song everyone knows, right? Beyond its fame, this song features love-themed lyrics that kids can easily relate to, along with a catchy, bright melody.
If you’re doing cups as a group, this song is highly recommended.
For the chorus, try adding claps or increasing cup movements so you don’t get outdone by the song’s energy!
My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS
It’s a song by the Japanese rock band RADWIMPS.
It was chosen as the theme song for Makoto Shinkai’s 2016 animated film Your Name.
In this cups video, the introduction is calm, but after the 50-second mark it showcases a very technical, up-tempo performance.
Anpanman Marchdoriimingu
This is the opening song “Anpanman March” from the anime Soreike! Anpanman.
When it comes to characters popular with young children, it has to be Anpanman! That’s why this song is recommended when little kids play cups.
The whole song is under three minutes long, and the melody is easy for small children to remember.
It’s okay if they can’t keep the rhythm perfectly at first—start by trying the basic cup game motions to the song: clapping, tapping the table, lifting the cup and putting it back down, and so on!
Video GamesLana Del Rey
This is a cup song cover of “Video Games” from Lana Del Rey’s 2012 album Born to Die.
The song is a cute piece that depicts a girl feeling frustrated with a boy who’s obsessed with video games.
In the video, it’s performed by a teenage girl and boy, and they look absolutely adorable.
paprikaFoorin
Here’s one I’d love for you to try with small children too: “Paprika.” It’s a song that became popular after being featured on NHK’s music program “Minna no Uta.” It’s also well-known for being written and composed by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu.
The nostalgic mood and melody give you a warm, fuzzy feeling when you listen.
The tempo is on the slower side, so it’s great for cups beginners! Doing it with multiple people creates a sense of unity, which makes it even more fun.
Shut up.Ado
Ado’s signature song “Usseewa” quickly spread among children and even became a social phenomenon thanks to its provocative lyrics and catchy chorus.
With its fast tempo, it’s a high-difficulty track for cups, but when you nail the timing, it’s incredibly exciting! Rather than playing alone, it’s a popular song everyone knows, so it’s best enjoyed with friends.
Try swapping cups midway, or take turns hitting one beat at a time to sync up.
If you can make it through the whole song, you’re sure to feel a huge sense of accomplishment!
As Long As You Love MeJustin Bieber ft. Big Sean
A track from Justin Bieber’s 2012 album BELIEVE.
It features American rapper Big Sean.
The song is about a couple whose relationship is opposed by their parents, so it has a somewhat melancholic melody.
However, the rhythm is easy to follow, and if you’re into cup percussion, it’s a song that will make you want to come up with a cool performance and have some fun.
As the song heads toward the end, try tapping out the more challenging rhythms and see if you can make it to the finish without a single mistake!