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

cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai43rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Sakuranbo (Short Ver.)

This is a love song by Ai Otsuka, who made her mark on the pop scene with her cute vocals and unique worldbuilding.

With its glamorous style and lyrics that resonate perfectly with high school girls, it’s an easy pick as a karaoke song.

Goodbye DeclarationChinozo44rank/position

[Jujutsu Kaisen Cosplay] Goodbye Declaration with Toge Inumaki [Dance]

“Goodbye Declaration,” which became a viral hit as the “finger dance” trend spread on TikTok and other social media, was released in 2020 by Vocaloid producer Chinozo, known for catchy tracks shaped by band experience.

Many teens may already be familiar with it.

Its snappy guitar over an electronic sound is striking, and the fast-paced, poppy melody has a genre-defying appeal.

Try performing the irresistibly cute dance at your school’s culture festival or school fair!

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mutō

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Footsteps ~Be StrongMr.Children45rank/position

Mr.Children “Footsteps” Live from TOUR 2015 REFLECTION

A popular song that was also used as the theme for the drama “Nobunaga Concerto.” Described in the show as a motivational anthem that gives you a push forward, it was reportedly completed after numerous rewrites and marks Mr.

Children’s first self-produced track.

Perhaps for that reason, it carries a vibe of taking a new step.

While it’s not uptempo, it could work well for intermission staging or as background music.

My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS46rank/position

RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (movie ver.) [Official Music Video]

Zenzenzense,” an insert song from the film “Your Name,” is included on the album of the same title released in 2016.

Its poignant yet heartwarming phrases, which feel like reliving the movie’s story, leave a strong impression.

The sight of students taking on various events pairs perfectly with the band’s sense of speed.

The groove-rich sound will elevate a stage that burns with passion.

It’s a rock number that works well either as BGM to spur on students giving their all in competition or as a rousing cheer song.

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mutō

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OrangeSPYAIR47rank/position

Sports Day Dance to 'Orange' by SPYAIR (for upper elementary to high school) – for athletic meets, school festivals, etc.

A refreshing coming-of-age ballad by SPYAIR, released in February 2024 as the theme song for the film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle.

Portraying friendship and growth, its lyrics gently embrace hopes for the future and farewells to teammates, shining like a snapshot of youth itself.

The energetic band sound and YOSUKE’s powerful vocals inspire the courage to move forward and the strength of self-affirmation.

Packed with fiery messages and a thrilling sense of speed, it’s perfect as background music to hype up dance time at school sports days and festivals.

Radiating as a symbol of youth that can turn the entire venue a shade of orange, this is a work that truly shines.

Don’t give upZARD48rank/position

Don't Give Up – ZARD (Full)

“Makenaide” is a classic cheer song beloved by a wide range of generations.

It’s a track released in 1993 by the music unit ZARD.

The song is well known for being sung during the 24-Hour TV charity marathon and for being used as the entrance music at high school baseball tournaments.

Its lyrics depict the feelings of a woman cheering on someone pursuing their dreams.

When you’re on the verge of losing heart, listening to it will surely fill you with energy and spirit.

Why not play it in the final stretch of a long-distance run?

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yamamoto

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Luka Luka★Night Feversamfree49rank/position

[1080P Full style] Luka Luka★Night Fever Megurine Luka Project DIVA English lyrics romaji subtitles

It’s a Eurobeat-style track.

Many people cite this song as one of Megurine Luka’s signature pieces, and it’s very popular.

It’s also well-loved as dance music, with many people creating dance videos using this track.

By the way, there’s a sister song called “Tako Luka★Maguro Fever.”