Packed with everything from friendship to romance! Youth anthems recommended for Gen Z

SUMMER ENDiri

SUMMER END

At the end of summer, when the night air turns a little cooler, the songs I want to listen to on a walk are by singer-songwriter iri.

That irresistibly pleasant groove feels like the fleeting nature of the passing season melting together with the lingering aftertaste of a summer romance.

You can hear that bittersweet frustration in her husky voice—the wish to keep dreaming sweetly while already sensing the inevitable end.

This track was released in September 2019 following iri’s album “Shade,” and it resonated widely as the theme song for the dating reality show “Renai Dorama na Koi ga Shitai ~Kiss to survive~.” It’s a song that gently stays by your side—perfect for nights when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood.

The limits of languageHinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46 “Limits of Words” Music Video

This is a track included as a coupling on the single “Onegai Bach!” released in September 2025.

Hina Kawata, who was about to graduate, served as the center.

The song contemplates the vastness of the universe while expressing the limits of putting precious feelings into words and celebrates the bonds of the heart that transcend language.

Its acoustic sound is warm and wonderful.

It’s a message song you’ll want to dedicate to someone setting off on a new journey.

friendedhiii boi

edhiii boi / Friend -Lyric Video-

This song features a poppy melody that resonates with younger generations and carries a heartwarming message.

Written by edhiii boi about memories with friends he met in Tokyo, it’s filled with positive expressions that convey the importance of friendship.

With sound production by Neon Genesis Sekichan, the upbeat techno track vividly paints scenes of eating and hanging out with friends.

Released in November 2023, it was performed on TBS’s “CDTV Live! Live!” and later included on the album Manshin Sōi.

Created by a rising star from the BMSG label, this track is recommended for anyone who cherishes the irreplaceable time spent with friends.

Stay by my side.Yuika

Stay by my side. / “Yuika” [MV]

This song portrays a special relationship—love that grows from the extension of friendship.

Released by Yuika in October 2021, it was also selected as the theme song for the TikTok short film “Natsu, Futari” (“Summer, Us Two”).

It paints many scenes that anyone can relate to, capturing the hearts of many listeners.

Its gentle melody and clear, transparent vocals create a warm atmosphere that feels close to the listener.

It’s a recommended track for moments when you want to reflect on a relationship with someone important or reminisce about your youth.

Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa

Lord of Major / Precious Things

A gem of a pop melody that portrays the precious friendships of adolescence.

Its warm feelings for friends at a parting and the vow never to forget those bonds are deeply moving.

Centered on themes of meeting and parting, growth and hope, it masterfully fuses driving rock sounds with lyrics that resonate in the heart.

Released as an indie single by Road of Major in September 2002, the song stayed in the top 10 of the Oricon chart for 19 consecutive weeks and achieved an astonishing 900,000 in total sales.

In 2009, it was also featured in a Mazda commercial in Taiwan, drawing attention both domestically and abroad.

It’s a track you’ll want to play when making up with a friend or when reaffirming the bonds with those who matter most.

It’s also a perfect cheer song for anyone facing farewells such as graduation or transferring schools.

ObsessedAyumu Imazu

Ayumu Imazu – Obsessed [Music Video]

This song captures the sweet-and-sour feeling of first love with a pop sound.

The protagonist, who easily falls at first sight, expresses delicate emotions carried by a pleasant groove and a catchy chorus melody.

A chill, casual track and bilingual lyrics perfectly portray Gen Z’s down-to-earth approach to romance.

Released in January 2024, it sparked a wave of dance challenges on social media and topped the Billboard JAPAN chart in Korea, resonating across Asia.

It’s the kind of track you’ll want to listen to while strolling through the city under a fresh spring sky—perfect for anyone who wants to be honest about how it feels to be in love.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

BUMP OF CHICKEN’s signature song “Tentai Kansoku” (Stargazing).

Watching this music video reminds me of how I used to look up at the sky over and over with the telescope we had at home, almost every night.

Even though it’s a song from the very beginning of the 21st century, it’s a timeless classic!