Relive those feelings from back in the day! Youth anthems recommended for the Yutori generation
For those from the so-called “Yutori Generation,” likely born around 1987 to 2004, their youth probably spans from about 2002 to 2019.
Music we listened to during our formative years has that mysterious power to pull us right back to that time, no matter how much time passes.
So this time, we’ve compiled a list of classic youth anthems recommended for the Yutori Generation.
From universally known hits to hidden gems, we’ll cover a wide range—so don’t miss it!
Relive those feelings from back then! Recommended youth songs for the Yutori Generation (1–10)
From Me to Youflumpool
A major-label fifth single by flumpool, characterized by high-tone vocals and a refreshing, exhilarating sound.
The song was used as the theme for the film “Kimi ni Todoke” and as the ending theme for the news program “Super J Channel,” and its lyrics—depicting pure romantic feelings—leave a strong impression.
Released in September 2010, it reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was also performed at the 61st NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen that same year, resonating with many listeners.
It’s a perfect choice when you want to look back on the bittersweet memories of your youth or sing at karaoke to express your feelings for someone special.
Dear, boyHump Back
A song by Hump Back that delivers a heart-stirring message as an anthem cheering on young people struggling with dreams and hopes.
The lyrics, which feel close to the listener, and the vocals infused with genuine, down-to-earth emotion are striking.
Released in June 2018 as their major-label debut, the track reached No.
13 on the Oricon charts.
It was also selected as the ending theme for the music program “Buzz Rhythm 02,” drawing significant attention.
With lyrics that convey the importance of keeping your head up and moving forward even if you take the long way around, it’s sure to resonate with students striving toward their dreams.
A youthful rock tune whose fiery live performances are also a major draw.
Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE
This is the seventh single by the three-piece rock band Mrs.
GREEN APPLE, written as the theme song for the film Aonatsu: Kimi ni Koishita 30-nichi.
With its driving, guitar-forward rock sound, it perfectly evokes the brisk exhilaration of summer.
The ensemble, blending a striking guitar riff with richly layered strings, calls to mind the clarity of youth and a touch of sentimental feeling.
Released in August 2018, the song surpassed 100 million cumulative streams by August 2020.
It’s a fresh, high-energy tune you’ll want as the soundtrack to a once-in-a-lifetime summer.
You and the summer music festivalSHISHAMO
It’s a pop tune that feels like a snapshot of youth at a summer music festival.
Vocalist Asako Miyazaki’s cute singing and the catchy guitar riffs leave a strong impression.
Released in July 2014, it reached many listeners, including being chosen as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s “JAPAN COUNTDOWN.” It’s also included on the albums “SHISHAMO 2” and “SHISHAMO BEST.” The lyrics, which depict admiration for rock stars and a swelling first love from a down-to-earth perspective, are likely to resonate with those in the midst of their youth, along with the excitement of heading to a festival.
It’s the perfect track for making summer memories.
together; along with; bothWANIMA
A song by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band from Kumamoto, that resonates in the heart along with memories of youth.
Featured on the 2016 single “Juice Up!!,” this track’s powerful band sound and heartfelt lyrics give courage to those seeking encouragement in various moments of life.
The lyrics, which depict the strength to keep looking forward even in difficult times and the importance of human connection, are sure to give a push to those living their youth with all their might.
CHE.R.RYYUI
A popular song by YUI with a fresh melody that evokes the arrival of spring.
The bittersweet lyrics portray a budding romance through exchanges over cell phone emails, bringing back memories of the yutori generation’s youth.
Released in March 2007 and featured in KDDI’s “LISMO!” commercial, the track became a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It’s also included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE,” and the acoustic version was well received at YUI’s live shows.
A perfect springtime tune you’ll want to play on a drive or while traveling.
One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS
This is the 14th single by the music duo FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, who announced their return as a two-person act in 2021.
Used as the support song for the 92nd National High School Baseball Championship and adopted as a theme for many baseball-related events, the track features a catchy melody and a gentle tone that resonates deeply.
Its message—that persistent effort will one day be rewarded—hits home and makes it a song you’d want children working hard in their clubs to hear.
Released in August 2010, it enjoyed long-lasting support, peaking at No.
8 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.