Ranking of Popular Japanese Music/J-POP Artists Among University Students [2026]

GO!!!FLOW22rank/position

FLOW 'GO!!! ~15th Anniversary ver.~' (Music Video Full Ver. with Commentary)

This song by the rock band FLOW was also used as a theme song for the anime Naruto, so even though it’s a bit old, I imagine many current students still know it.

The crisp guitar sound is exhilarating, and its sense of speed makes it perfect for events like relay races! The lyrics, which push you to keep taking on challenges even on a rough road, are the essence of youth—truly an upbeat youth anthem!

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Hane Keisuke

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Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA23rank/position

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

This song depicts the courage to face adversity, with a powerful rock sound and a richly projected vocal that represents modern anime.

It captures the indomitable spirit of a protagonist striving to overcome countless hardships and the strong will to protect loved ones, resulting in a striking piece.

LiSA’s vocals brilliantly convey the story’s themes.

Released in April 2019, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, became a massive hit, and earned numerous accolades, including an appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its dynamic, high-impact sound is perfect for sports days and athletic festivals, and it also works great as a rousing cheer song everyone can enjoy together.

The world is smiling at you.Little Glee Monster24rank/position

Little Glee Monster 'The World Is Smiling at You' Short Ver.

We recommend “The World Smiles at You” as a song to make your entrance feel bright and celebratory.

Released in 2018 during Little Glee Monster’s five-member era, this showcase of their exceptional vocals and harmonies has become one of the group’s signature songs, performed in a variety of settings.

It’s even used as a dance track at school sports days and athletic festivals.

The members’ richly colored vocal work and positive message are sure to get you excited! It will boost your energy and help you dive smoothly into the events and cheering.

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KEI

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Fanfaresumika25rank/position

sumika / Fanfare [Music Video]

An uplifting anthem that strikes a chord with its driving melody and bright lyrics! It’s a song that encourages a brave first step—from darkness into light, breaking out of your shell.

The invigorating sound alone gives you energy, and the storytelling—accepting your own weaknesses while stepping into a new world—is memorable.

This refreshing track, woven by sumika’s band sound, was released as a double A-side single in August 2018 and also drew attention as the opening theme for the animated film “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.” It’s perfect for school festival dances, choirs, or band performances, and is sure to gently embrace the entire venue!

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai26rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

An uplifting youth anthem featuring a dynamic melody and a driving, fast-paced sound.

Released by Ryokuoushoku Shakai in July 2024 as the theme song for an ABEMA dating show, it captures the anxieties and aspirations of adolescence and the brilliance of giving your all, expressed through powerful vocals and a grand arrangement with a 40-piece orchestra.

The track is also included on the album “Channel U,” and since its first live performance at Sukima Fes, it has been featured on numerous music programs.

It’s perfect for events like sports days and athletic festivals where you go all out with your friends.

A song that gently supports students living their “only-now” moments to the fullest.

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO27rank/position

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

It’s a friendly, feel-good cheer song that almost everyone has heard at least once.

Unusual among SHISHAMO’s works, it was created based on the excitement felt while watching a match of the soccer team Kawasaki Frontale.

Released in February 2017 as a track on the album “SHISHAMO 4,” it gained wide recognition through its tie-in with an NTT Docomo commercial.

Singing about the joy of meeting your dream heroes on the weekend and the energy you get from it, the song features warm lyrics that convey the support around you and hope for the future.

Even in tough or discouraging times, it’s a stirring track that gives you the courage and strength to look forward, and it resonates in moments when you step forward with power—such as the entrance at a sports day or the opening of a school athletic festival.

Yes, with pleasure.kocchi no kento28rank/position

Sure thing / Kocchino Kento MV

This is a song released by Kocchinoken-to in May 2024, an uplifting anthem that pairs a catchy rhythm and melody with a heartwarming message.

The “Giri Giri Dance,” which spread mainly through social media, became a hot topic as an easy, accessible performance for everyone and has been a huge hit as background music and a cheer song at school sports days.

The track packs a powerful, confidence-boosting message into its up-tempo sound, keeping you feeling positive from start to finish.

It also garnered major buzz on TikTok and even led to a collaboration with Sanrio characters.

Its breezy, get-you-running rhythm and friendly, singable melody are part of its charm.

Perfect not only for school sports festivals and athletic events, it’s also a great pick-me-up for everyday motivation.