[University Students] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation]

From Me to Youflumpool85rank/position

flumpool “Kimi ni Todoke” Music Video

A signature song by flumpool, whose appeal lies not only in their gentle vocals but also in their sweet looks.

When a popular manga was adapted into a live-action film, this track became a huge hit as its theme song.

It’s a refreshing tune that sings of bittersweet, straightforward young love, beloved not only by fans but by many listeners.

If you laugh at the skywacci86rank/position

wacci “If You Laugh at the Sky” Music Video

wacci is a rock band that delivers music that fits seamlessly into everyday life.

Their song “Sora ni Waraeba,” included on the 2018 album Gunjō Refrain, empowers people striving toward their dreams and goals.

The lyrics unfold like a portrait of days spent working hard with classmates toward a school sports festival.

Even when things get tough, you can picture everyone overcoming it together.

With a warm band arrangement incorporating beautiful strings, it’s a moving song that resonates with the heart.

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mutō

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The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP87rank/position

The Only Flower in the World – SMAP

When it comes to moving songs, isn’t it impossible to talk about them without mentioning this one? It’s a signature track by SMAP, the nationally beloved idol group.

With lyrics themed around “Only One,” I think it’s perfect for school sports days, too.

It might be a slightly older song, but I believe it’s one of those timeless classics that still deserves to be loved.

The members’ gentle voices really touch the heart, don’t they?

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Hane Keisuke

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loveback number88rank/position

back number – Love (Short ver.)

A gem from back number that captures bittersweet, tenderly aching emotions swaying in the limited time before graduation.

The lyrics, which freeze a youthful moment—like following your crush with your eyes from a classroom window—are sure to make anyone overlay their own memories.

Released in March 2012, this song overflows with warmth that gently nudges men who are thinking of confessing on White Day but can’t quite find the courage.

On a night when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special, be sure to listen closely.

ApollodorusMrs. GREEN APPLE89rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Apollodorus” Official Lyric Video

This work is a grand composition that expresses the athlete’s inner “calm” and “motion.” It delivers deep inspiration and courage to listeners—truly an anthem for everyone who takes on a challenge.

Released in July 2024, it was also used in broadcasts of the Paris Olympics.

It portrays the pain and anxiety experienced on the path toward a goal, as well as the strength to overcome them.

It’s a song we especially want students dedicated to their club activities and anyone striving toward their dreams to hear.

It’s a piece that lets you feel the breadth and depth of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s musicality.

GiftsSuperfly90rank/position

Superfly『Gifts』(Music Video)

“Gifts” is a song whose message about the importance of living true to yourself resonates deeply.

Released by the musical unit Superfly in 2018, it was also selected as the set piece for the junior high division of the NHK All-Japan School Choir Competition.

It’s filled with words of encouragement for those moments when daily life doesn’t go smoothly and you start to feel down.

It will empower students taking on various events like relays and tamaire (beanbag toss).

Rather than comparing yourself to others, this moving song teaches that the days you’ve spent working hard are what turn into real strength.

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mutō

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Live in the present.Saucy Dog91rank/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.