Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Youth anthems recommended for Gen Z
When you hear the phrase “youth anthem,” what kind of songs come to mind?
Some people immersed themselves in clubs or hobbies, others treasured time with friends, and some were swept up in romance.
Because each person focused on different things during their youth, there are as many youth anthems as there are listeners.
This time, we’ve curated songs we especially recommend for members of Generation Z.
We selected tracks released roughly between 2011 and 2024—the years when many in Gen Z likely spent their formative youth—so put them on and let the memories come flooding back!
Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Top 10 youth anthems recommended for Gen Z (1–10)
Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE
Released in August 2018, this is the seventh single by the three-piece rock band Mrs.
GREEN APPLE.
Chosen as the theme song for the film “Ao-Natsu: Kimi ni Koi Shita 30-Nichi,” its exhilarating opening instantly evokes the passionate spirit of youth.
The lyrics and melody, tinged with melancholy amid a driving sense of speed, may resonate with memories of a summer that will never come again.
It’s a rock tune perfect for summer, capturing the reality of young people for whom every moment matters.
In August 2020, it surpassed 100 million total streams, winning the hearts of many listeners.
OrangeSPYAIR
This song is packed with a driving rock sound and the heat of youth.
Chosen as the theme song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie, it marks the fourth collaboration between SPYAIR and the Haikyu!! series.
Centered on themes of encounters, bonds, and farewells, it gives voice to the belief in reuniting someday.
Featured on the EP released in February 2024, it showcases the distinctive vocals of the new singer, YOSUKE.
The lyrics convey courage and hope to pursue your dreams, gently giving a push to anyone ready to take a new step forward.
Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism
This is a song used as the opening theme for the anime Tokyo Revengers, packed with the many emotions of youth.
Released in May 2021, the track expresses the protagonist’s strong will to face adversity and conveys a determination to overcome hardships.
It’s considered one of the most challenging songs to sing in Hige Dandism’s repertoire, which makes it all the more compelling to listen to.
It’s recommended for those who have experienced setbacks in their youth or are about to take on something new.
together; along with; bothWANIMA
A signature song by the popular rock band WANIMA that celebrates friendship and bonds.
It was included on the single “JUICE UP!!” released in January 2017.
Known for its powerful melody and moving message, it offers courage and hope to face life’s challenges.
The lyrics about friendship may remind many people of their youthful days.
With its memorable choral work, it’s a great track to listen to with friends or sing at karaoke.
Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya
This song centers on the theme of farewells unique to youth, and was used as the opening theme for Season 2 of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen, “Hidden Inventory/Premature Death.” Its delicate lyrics and melody have resonated with many listeners, earning high praise immediately after release.
The lyrics poetically express lost time and feelings that never reached their destination, vividly capturing a fleeting moment of youth.
Kitani Tatsuya’s clear, transparent vocals combined with the song’s refreshing tone create a world that’s perfect for anyone nostalgic for their younger days.
CorrectRADWIMPS
It’s a song that brilliantly captures the joys and anxieties of youth.
Beloved as a graduation-season staple, it was written specifically for NHK’s 2018 special program “RADWIMPS 18 Festival.” Characterized by RADWIMPS’ distinctive musicality and profound lyrics, it resonates deeply with many listeners.
In January 2024, after five years, it was finally released on CD.
Skillfully portraying emotions unique to adolescence—friendship, growth, and worries about the future—it’s a perfect track for Gen Z.
Its refreshing melody makes you want to hum along with friends at graduations and whenever you’re making memories.
determinationSUPER BEAVER
This is a powerful cheer song themed around life choices and moving forward, with SUPER BEAVER’s signature straightforward message and solid rock sound that really lifts your spirits.
Released digitally in November 2023, the track was also featured in a commercial for Morinaga’s “in Jelly Energy Glucose.” The lyrics, which assert that you are the one who decides your future, are sure to give courage to anyone worried about what lies ahead.
Its driving rock ensemble feels like a tailwind—a powerful rock tune that propels you forward.
It’s a moving song that resonates deeply and gives a push to people standing at life’s crossroads, such as students preparing for entrance exams.