Going out will definitely be more fun! Drive songs recommended for Gen Z

Mela!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

Ryokuoushoku Shakai is a four-piece rock band whose impactful name and irresistibly catchy pop sensibilities have rapidly grown their popularity, especially among younger listeners.

This track was featured in a commercial for Dariya’s “Palty Coloring Milk.” With Haruko Nagaya’s translucent, expressive vocals and each member’s individuality shining through, the song explores themes of relationships between self and others, as well as inner conflict.

Released in April 2020, it became a massive hit, surpassing 300 million streams.

Its exhilarating sound is guaranteed to lift your spirits on a drive—a perfect song to brighten the mood in the car and accompany any outing.

Playerchelmico

chelmico「Player」【Official Music Video】

This is the major-label debut from chelmico, a rap duo known for their freewheeling style and friendly personalities.

It’s the opening track on their album “POWER,” released in August 2018.

With a playful, game-like world and a positive message about charging ahead as the hero of your own story, it gives listeners a strong push forward.

It feels like their energy is packed into one track.

The breezy beat and comfortable back-and-forth rapping make it perfect BGM for a highway drive.

sabotageRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “sabotage” Music Video (Theme song for the TBS Tuesday drama “You and I on the G String”)

This single by the band Ryokuoushoku Shakai—known for their colorful, pop-savvy style—was released in November 2019.

Written as the theme song for the TBS drama “G Senjou no Anata to Watashi,” it was later included on the album “SINGALONG.” The lyrics strikingly portray a strong resolve to break out of the shell that binds oneself and change.

The radiant sound incorporating strings, coupled with vocalist Haruko Nagaya’s clear, expansive voice, deeply moves listeners.

Perfect for a drive when you want to shake off hesitation, or for anyone looking to reset their mindset.

U.S.A.DA PUMP

DA PUMP – U.S.A.

In addition to its distinctive blend of a catchy melody and slick, handsome rap, DA PUMP’s 29th single has also earned support for its high-quality dance performance.

It’s a cover of the song released in 1992 by Italian singer Joe Yellow, and its thrilling Eurobeat sound really pumps you up.

The simple yet catchy choreography—like the “Ii ne Dance” in the chorus and the “Invader Dance” during the instrumental break—makes everyone want to copy it, and it’s especially recommended for dance lovers.

Released in June 2018, the track was also used as the ending theme for TBS’s “Ousama no Brunch.” It’s the perfect song to raise your spirits on a drive, no question about it.

Bye by meVaundy

Bye by me / Vaundy ：MUSIC VIDEO

Vaundy, who draws attention for his genre-defying musicianship and unique sensibility.

The song released digitally in April 2020 was his first tie-in work, written as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s Drama 25 series “Throw It Away, Adachi-san.” Warm, country-tinged guitar tones pair with lyrics that trace the days of the week as time moves along, carrying a gentle message that affirms the self while singing of a break from the past.

Later included on the album “strobo” and certified Streaming Gold, this track softly nudges you forward when you want to mark an ending or take a new first step.

Minoritysloppy dim

Minority /sloppy dim (Official Music Video)

Sloppy Dim is a two-MC unit gaining attention for their unique style that layers emotional rap over mellow tracks.

Released in March 2020, this song went viral through social media and streaming platforms, helping to widely establish their name.

As the word “minority” suggests, the lyrics carefully depict the loneliness and inner conflicts that everyone carries, resonating with many listeners.

The chill, melodic sound pairs perfectly with poetic word choices that emphasize vivid imagery, resulting in a rap track that also feels approachable like a pop song.

It’s a moving number that stays with you—one that seems to be there in those fleeting moments of everyday life when loneliness creeps in, or when you feel like you might lose sight of who you are.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

Vividly depicting the bittersweetness and hope of youth, this work was released in April 2024 as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery.” As symbolized by its title, which carries the flower-language meanings of “first love” and “memories of youth,” the song sings of the importance of loving yourself, scars and all.

Its lyrics, which give you the courage to look forward even amid imperfect days, are delivered over Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s signature guitar rock sound.

It won the 66th Japan Record Award, and its streaming play count surpassed 300 million in record time.

This is a track you’ll want to hear when you’re struggling with the gap between dreams or ideals and reality, and need a gentle push forward.