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

HEROAmuro Namie36rank/position

Hero – Namie Amuro (Full)

Namie Amuro, the singer who sparked the “Amuraa” boom that became a social phenomenon in the 1990s and rose to fame as a charismatic icon for young women.

Her 45th single “Hero,” chosen as the NHK theme song for broadcasts of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics and Paralympics, features a sweeping melody woven with her beautiful vocals that truly stirs the heart.

Its dramatic ensemble mirrors the ever-changing tides of competition at sports days and athletic festivals, lifting your spirits in step.

With its powerful choral work that amps up the energy, it’s an emotional number through and through.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Fly Highmilet37rank/position

milet “Fly High” MUSIC VIDEO (NHK Winter Sports Theme Song)

Singer milet, who has worked on numerous anime and commercial tie-in songs, is known for her husky yet supple voice.

Among her tracks, the one that’s perfect for a sports day is “Fly High.” It’s included on her 2022 release “visions” and was selected as the theme song for NHK’s “Winter Sports.” Its dramatic sound with a grand atmosphere is truly moving.

If you’re looking for BGM for the opening ceremony or athletes’ entrance, be sure to give it a listen.

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mutō

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A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki38rank/position

Masaki Suda “A Scenery I’ve Never Seen”

This is Masaki Suda’s debut track, packed with passion through its driving rock sound and powerful vocals.

Released in June 2017, the song earnestly portrays people who keep moving forward even while covered in mud.

Its message, full of determination and passion toward the future, was featured in au’s “au BLUE CHALLENGE” series and resonated with many listeners.

The track is included on the album “PLAY” and garnered high acclaim, reaching No.

3 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

It’s also perfect as entrance music for athletes at school sports days, gently yet powerfully pushing forward everyone who is striving to face ahead.

Have a nice dayNishino Kana39rank/position

Kana Nishino 'Have a nice day' MV Full

The theme song selected for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi TV is Kana Nishino’s “Have a nice day.” It’s the lead track from her 2016 album “Just LOVE,” which reached No.

1 on the Oricon chart.

The lyrics, which depict a girl’s hectic morning moments, are utterly charming.

The brisk, up-tempo feel and the alarm clock sound used as an effect make it perfect as an alarm.

Be sure to wake up early and take it easy while watching a morning TV program!

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Hamada Takuya

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It’s okay.BLUE ENCOUNT40rank/position

BLUE ENCOUNT “Daijoubu” Music Video (YouTube Ver.)

With lyrics that hit straight to the heart, BLUE ENCOUNT’s “Daijoubu” pairs perfectly with youth.

Many of Blue En’s songs bring tears and reach straight for your heart, don’t they? This track is their fifth single, released in 2016.

True to the title “Daijoubu” (“It’s okay”), it’s a song that wholeheartedly affirms and cheers you on.

It’s a perfect fit as BGM for a sports day, giving you the motivation to look up, push forward, and aim higher.

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utatane

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We are!kitadani hiroshi41rank/position

We Are Kitadani Hiroshi

“We Are!” is the first opening theme of the anime One Piece, and it remains a beloved classic that continues to be cherished as a staple of anime songs.

Its bright melody and lyrics brimming with excitement for adventure and hopeful positivity make it perfect for school sports festivals and athletic meets.

With a heartfelt message that echoes the sincerity found in the anime’s story, it’s an inspiring song that’s sure to move you.

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Hane Keisuke

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Kokoro-eroodo obu mejyaa42rank/position

Road of Major / Kokoro-e

This is a song by Road of Major that powerfully paints the “picture of the heart” hidden in one’s chest.

Its passionate message—“No matter how many times you stumble, seize the future you dreamed of with your own hands!”—resonates with listeners.

Released in November 2004, this was their major-label debut single and served as the opening theme for the first season of the NHK Educational anime Major.

It can be called a rousing anthem that gives courage to high school baseball players chasing the white ball, and to everyone striving toward a big goal.