Birthday songs loved by Gen Z: from classic crowd-pleasers to the latest trending tracks
A birthday celebration wouldn’t be complete without a cheerful birthday song, right? Lately, among Gen Z, not only the classic tune but also fun birthday tracks that naturally bring a smile are gaining popularity.
For those looking for songs to sing on a loved one’s special day—whether celebrating with friends or marking a family milestone—we’re introducing birthday songs beloved by Gen Z.
From trending tracks shared on social media to perfect picks for surprise moments, these are songs that people of all ages can enjoy!
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Birthday songs loved by Gen Z: from classic crowd-pleasers to the latest trending hits (1–10)
Birthday SongOchiai Wataru
This is a warm, celebratory song by Wataru Ochiai, an artist who delivers lyrics that speak straight to the heart.
Set to a gentle acoustic sound, the track reminds us that the presence of someone by our side is the greatest gift of all.
Its unadorned, straightforward words have the power to convey feelings to anyone.
Released in October 2019, it even topped the J-pop charts in Vietnam—no surprise that it’s loved across borders.
It’s perfect for giving to someone special—friends, family, or anyone dear—on their special day as a token of gratitude.
It also makes a wonderful BGM choice for a surprise video, sure to create a moving moment.
A Bouquet for YouUtada Hikaru
This song was used as the theme for the NHK morning drama series “Toto Nee-chan,” marking Hikaru Utada’s return to activity in April 2016.
It’s said that she wrote it for her mother, but given the title “Hanataba wo Kimi ni” (A Bouquet for You), it also makes a great birthday song.
Feelings of gratitude that words alone can’t express are conveyed through its gentle, warm melody.
A birthday is not only a time for celebration, but also a perfect opportunity to say “Thank you for being born.” By layering the feelings you’re usually too shy to say onto this song, you can create an unforgettable, moving moment.
It’s a heartwarming ballad that helps you reaffirm the bond with someone special.
HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number
Don’t birthdays feel a little bittersweet when you’ve got an unrequited crush? In moments like that, the music of back number, a three-piece rock band from Gunma Prefecture, gently keeps you company.
It’s a night spent longing to hear “Happy birthday” from the person you like.
The protagonist’s frustration—able to think of silly small talk, yet unable to say the one thing that matters—really tugs at your heart.
Released in February 2019 as their 20th single, this song also made waves as the theme for the TV drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love.” It’s perfect for those nights when you’d rather step away from the circle cheering “Happy birthday!” and sink into your feelings alone.
Or maybe you could sing it at karaoke and let them notice how you really feel…
that might just work!
Birthday songs loved by Gen Z: from classic crowd-pleasers to the latest trending hits (11–20)
AnniversaryHirai Dai
A singer-songwriter, Dai Hirai, whose organic musical style centered on ukuleles and acoustic guitars and life-affirming messages have earned widespread support.
Released in October 2021, this piece is a track included on the album HOPE.
Written from a woman’s perspective, the song depicts the happiness of building up everyday moments, like jotting down memories with a lover in a diary.
The lyrics suggest that every moment with a loved one is special and a commemorative day, overlapping with an ideal vision for the future that lies ahead.
Looking back on past memories while promising to create new ones, the lyrics make this a perfect song for celebrating a lover’s birthday.
HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAYDREAMS COME TRUE
When it comes to DREAMS COME TRUE’s birthday songs, this is the one, right? This track, included on the album “MAGIC” released in December 1993, never fails to put you in a happy mood.
The heartfelt wish to be the very first to celebrate right after the date changes comes through so clearly.
The handclaps and chorus-centered sound really heighten the bubbly excitement.
If you sing this for a surprise for a friend, it’s sure to liven up the moment and make them happy!
GIFTMr.Children
A grand, heart-stirring ballad is perfect for those once-a-year emotional moments.
The 32nd single by Mr.Children, one of Japan’s leading rock bands, released in July 2008, was chosen as the theme song for NHK’s broadcast of the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics.
Its beautiful melody, colored by strings, and its warm, all-encompassing sound are deeply moving.
The song celebrates the importance of a brilliance that can’t be seen, yet resides in everyone.
It’s the perfect track for expressing gratitude that might feel a bit embarrassing in everyday life.
Happy Birthday To YouOfisharu Higedan Dism
Every time we celebrate a birthday, many of us may feel that we’re a little different from the adults we imagined we’d be as children.
This song gently stays close to that slightly sentimental feeling.
Rather than building to a flashy high, it offers quiet encouragement, giving you a push to say goodbye to your timid self and make a fresh start.
The track is included on the 2016 mini-album “MAN IN THE MIRROR.” Why not gift it to a dear friend—or to yourself?