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

DREAMERIkuta Rira92rank/position

DREAMER

A gemlike ballad that powerfully conveys passion for dreams and a deep love of music.

Standing at life’s crossroads, its lyrics gently support young people chasing their precious dreams, celebrating the beauty of staying true to oneself.

Sung by Rira Ikuta, the song was released in March 2025 alongside the album Hyakka Ryouran and drew wide attention as an insert song in the drama Paripi Komei.

Because she has devoted herself to music since childhood, her true-to-life expressiveness lends words that move the heart.

As a finale track for school sports days and festivals, it’s sure to become a cherished song that colors a page of youth.

RunLittle Glee Monster93rank/position

『Run』 – Little Glee Monster

It’s a youth-boosting anthem that sings about the courage to move forward and the bonds between friends.

With an exhilarating, up-tempo melody and powerful harmonies, this track stands out as a collaboration with Meiji Probio Yogurt R-1, created by Little Glee Monster in March 2025 to cheer on new first graders.

Included on the album “Ambitious,” it’s also slated to be performed on their nationwide tour.

It’s the perfect song to sing and dance to with friends at school events like cultural festivals and sports days.

We’re delivering a message song bursting with energy—one you’ll want to share with friends striving toward their dreams.

ultra soulB’z94rank/position

[Wind Band Hit] ultra soul / B’z

This single, released in March 2001, is an uplifting anthem delivered with a powerful rock sound and a message that strikes straight to the heart.

It conveys encouragement to those striving toward their dreams, depicting the emotions that waver between hope and disappointment, as well as the courage to challenge one’s own limits.

It’s a track where B’z’s signature sense of speed and Koshi Inaba’s dynamic vocals blend seamlessly.

The song was continuously selected as the official theme for the World Aquatics Championships from 2001 to 2024, becoming a staple that energizes the sports scene.

It’s also highly recommended as a cheer song for school sports days and athletic festivals, boosting participants’ morale and uniting everyone in excitement.

ultramarineYOASOBI95rank/position

YOASOBI “Gunjou” Official Music Video

A signature work by YOASOBI that vividly expresses young people’s passion and pursuit of dreams through striking lyrics.

Released in September 2020, the song gained broad recognition after being featured in Bourbon’s “Alfort Mini Chocolate” commercial.

In 2021, it was also selected as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Dance ONE Project ’21,” adding flair to high school students’ dance performances.

Evoking the image of blue light, the piece impressively portrays the challenges of self-expression and creativity, making it perfect for school sports-day entrance marches and dance performances.

It’s a song that lets everyone share in the unique sense of unity of a sports festival and the courage to take the first step toward their dreams.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE96rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s hugely popular song “Boku no Koto,” which captures everyday scenes and feelings, is a wonderful choice for a closing ceremony.

Listening to the lyrics and melody that begin gently and quietly may bring back memories of the emotions and experiences you had throughout the sports day.

Playing it during the awards presentation could make the moment even more exciting.

Rather than focusing on winning or losing, it’s a song that conveys a sense of accomplishment for everyone’s hard work and hope for the future.

Please give it a listen.

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Voice of the SeaKiritani Kenta97rank/position

"The Voice of the Sea" Full ver. / Urashima Taro (Kenta Kiritani) [Official]

It’s a digital single released in 2015, used as the CM song for the au Santaro series, in which Kenta Kiritani, playing Urashima Taro, sings within the commercial.

It was created as an original track for the au feature phone “Voice of the Sea” commercial.

The sound of the sanshin, which evokes an Okinawan atmosphere, pairs well with Kiritani’s husky vocals, making it a very soothing song.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo98rank/position

Hitoto Yo – Hanamizuki

This song has fans across all generations, and I think everyone has heard it at least once.

The bittersweet lyrics really touch the heart.

Even if you’ve only heard it in passing, I’d love for you to listen again while paying attention to the words.

It’s also a popular karaoke choice, so give it a try and sing it.