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!
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Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Coming-of-age songs recommended for Gen Z (51–60)
Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu
This song portrays the brilliance of youth precisely because it is fleeting.
It quietly speaks to the importance of accepting and sincerely facing those seemingly pointless, boring moments we all go through.
Released digitally in March 2019, it gained wider recognition as a McDonald’s commercial song the same year.
It was also included on the album “season” and is beloved by many fans as one of Macaroni Empitsu’s signature tracks.
In addition, it was chosen as the opening theme for TV Tokyo’s Drama 24 series “I Had a Dream About That Girl.” With a sound that gently embraces the universal worries and uncertainties of all young people and Hattori’s warm vocals that resonate deeply, this is a highly recommended track for Gen Z listeners in the midst of their youth right now, as well as for anyone who wants to look back on those irreplaceable days.
Love songMarushii
Marcy’s latest work is a song that finds the warmth of romance in everyday life.
Released digitally in September 2023, it’s a love ballad that also carries a refreshing feel.
An original music video created in collaboration with LINE MUSIC has been released as well, highlighting the close connection with fans.
It’s recommended for those who want to cherish the small, everyday moments with their partner or have someone they wish to stay with forever.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to not only on special days but on ordinary days, too.
no planRozarīna
A song by Rosalina that celebrates the preciousness of friendship.
The lyrics, which depict the everyday moments shared with friends, resonate deeply.
You can feel the sentiment: “Even without a plan, just being with you is enough.” It’s included on the album “sweet ring” and was also used as an insert song in the film “Aibō na Keiji Returns.” The music video, released in May 2024, features Rosalina’s real friends, capturing the natural feel of their friendship.
It’s a recommended track for anyone who wants to cherish the time spent with dear friends.
Young SongKawasaki Takaya
An uplifting song for adults who, overwhelmed by the busyness of daily life, have forgotten how to laugh from the heart.
With his warm vocals, Takaya Kawasaki helps you recall the sparkle of your younger days.
The melodic style and the refreshing sound of the acoustic guitar leave a strong impression.
Included on the album “Calendar,” it was also used as the commercial song for the National Federation of Mini Vehicle Associations in October 2021.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when starting a new chapter in life, standing at a crossroads, or feeling worn out by the everyday.
Wrapped in Takaya Kawasaki’s gentle voice, you’ll be able to reset your heart.
Savoring youthIkuta Rira feat. ano
A song has been born that portrays the syrupy monotony of everyday life while showing how those very days will one day shine as treasured memories.
The warm voices of Lila Ikuta and ano ride the melody and quietly resonate.
Pure bewilderment at changes in the world and our surroundings, along with a strong resolve to overcome them together with someone dear, gently seep into the heart alongside the tender tune.
Released in March 2024 as the theme song for the latter chapter of the film Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction, the work also drew attention for the two artists’ performances as voice actors.
It is a heartwarming piece that embraces those who cherish the small joys hidden in a student’s daily life, the casual conversations with friends, and those who strive to face forward without fearing change.