Ranking of Most Popular Bands Among University Students [2026]

No.1DISH//22rank/position

DISH// – No.1 [Official Video] (TV Anime “My Hero Academia” Season 5 Opening Theme / MY HERO ACADEMIA OPENING THEME)

A guitar-rock tune that powerfully resonates with a message of charging straight toward your goals with an unwavering heart! Released by DISH// in May 2021, this track stands out with its exhilarating piano and edgy guitar sound.

It embodies a strong will to keep moving toward the light of hope without losing sight of your destination, along with a determination to live authentically without making excuses.

Chosen as the opening theme for the first cour of Season 5 of the TV anime My Hero Academia, it won strong support from anime fans as well.

It’s a powerful cheering song you’ll want to hear when you need the courage to face forward—before an important match, in moments of anxiety, or anytime you’re preparing your heart for what’s ahead.

Dear, boyHump Back23rank/position

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

It’s a powerful cheer song that resonates in the hearts of those on the verge of giving up on their dreams.

With warm, tender vocals that embrace the struggle to push forward through the anxieties and setbacks of youth, and a driving rock sound full of momentum, the track has captured the hearts of many listeners.

Released in June 2018 as Hump Back’s major-label debut single, it reached No.

13 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

With its easy-to-sing melody and lyrics that cut straight to the heart, it’s sure to unite the entire school festival venue in excitement!

Prefacemakaroni enpitsu24rank/position

Macaroni Enpitsu “Hashirigaki” MV

If you’re looking for a refreshing yet bittersweet rock track that captures youthful days, “Hashirigaki” is a great pick.

Released in 2021 by Macaroni Empitsu, a band known for emotive songs that reflect the hearts of young people, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Crayon Shin-chan: Shrouded in Mystery! The Flowers of Tenkasu Academy.

Its mellow band sound unfolds over a brisk rhythm.

It’s a coming-of-age song that turns both joyful and painful moments into memories.

If you need BGM for a sports day or school athletics festival, give it a listen.

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mutō

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Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts25rank/position

Creepy Nuts “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” × TV Anime “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES” Collaboration Music Video #BBBB Dance

This piece was produced in January 2024 as the opening theme for the TV anime Mashle: Magic and Muscles.

With Creepy Nuts’ striking track and inventive sound design, it fuses Jersey club elements into an irresistibly addictive production.

The lyrics carry a strong message that reflects the protagonist’s determination to fight without relying on magic, and they blend seamlessly with the duo’s distinctive hip-hop style—sparking a dance challenge that trended on social media.

The song has enjoyed global success, including reaching No.

80 on Spotify’s Global Top 100 chart dated January 15.

It’s the perfect track to get everyone hyped when dancing together for a class performance or school festival.

Live in the present.Saucy Dog26rank/position

Saucy Dog “Live in the present.” Music Video

Powerfully singing of youthful passion and hope, this Saucy Dog track was created as a cheer anthem for the 101st All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Portraying growth through overcoming setbacks and hardship, bonds with teammates, and the courage to move forward while staying true to oneself, the song deeply resonates with young people navigating high school life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Released in December 2022, it has become an indispensable fan favorite at their live shows, giving a strong push not only to soccer players but also to students working hard every day for their clubs and school events.

MONSTER DANCEKEYTALK27rank/position

KEYTALK/「MONSTER DANCE」MUSIC VIDEO

A four-on-the-floor dance rock track is a surefire choice to hype up the crowd! This song is by the four-piece rock band KEYTALK, released as their third single in 2014.

It’s an upbeat, high-energy tune with a hint of Japanese flavor that’ll raise the excitement whether you like it or not as you listen.

Since handclaps pop up throughout the song, be sure to hype the audience so they’ll join in when you play it live.

There’s a section where the tempo changes, so practice thoroughly to keep the rhythm tight and consistent.

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Araki Jakkan

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End the worldHarukamirai28rank/position

Harukamirai – End the World (Official Video)

A four-piece rock band that made their major debut in 2019, Harukamirai’s third single.

With a solid, no-frills sound built on simple instrumentation, an easy-to-groove rhythm, and straightforward vocals, it’s an accessible track that’s perfect for a school festival stage.

There are many unison parts, making it a song everyone can sing together and get pumped up with, so adding it to your setlist can help create dynamic contrast in your live show.

Since there are no difficult phrases like guitar solos, it’s also an easy number for beginner bands to cover—ideal if the school festival stage will be your first live performance.

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Hoshino Takashi

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