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

R.Y.U.S.E.ISandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu43rank/position

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / “R.Y.U.S.E.I.” Music Video

The dance-vocal group Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE, known for their emotional vocals and polished dance performances, gained widespread popularity.

Released as a single in June 2014 and selected as the TCK 2014 campaign song, this track captivates with its pop EDM sound themed around the passion of chasing dreams and the bonds with friends.

The song won the Japan Record Award in December of the same year, and its “running man” choreography during the instrumental break became a social phenomenon.

Its exhilarating, fast-paced melody makes it a perfect dance number for everyone to synchronize and perform together at school sports days and athletic festivals.

The world is smiling at you.Little Glee Monster44rank/position

Little Glee Monster 'The World Is Smiling at You' Short Ver.

We recommend “The World Smiles at You” as a song to make your entrance feel bright and celebratory.

Released in 2018 during Little Glee Monster’s five-member era, this showcase of their exceptional vocals and harmonies has become one of the group’s signature songs, performed in a variety of settings.

It’s even used as a dance track at school sports days and athletic festivals.

The members’ richly colored vocal work and positive message are sure to get you excited! It will boost your energy and help you dive smoothly into the events and cheering.

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KEI

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HEROAmuro Namie45rank/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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Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai46rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

An uplifting youth anthem featuring a dynamic melody and a driving, fast-paced sound.

Released by Ryokuoushoku Shakai in July 2024 as the theme song for an ABEMA dating show, it captures the anxieties and aspirations of adolescence and the brilliance of giving your all, expressed through powerful vocals and a grand arrangement with a 40-piece orchestra.

The track is also included on the album “Channel U,” and since its first live performance at Sukima Fes, it has been featured on numerous music programs.

It’s perfect for events like sports days and athletic festivals where you go all out with your friends.

A song that gently supports students living their “only-now” moments to the fullest.

Fly Highmilet47rank/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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Kokoro-eroodo obu mejyaa48rank/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.

A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki49rank/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.