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

DREAMIN’ONDa-iCE1rank/position

Da-iCE / <TV Anime “ONE PIECE” Theme Song> “DREAMIN’ ON” Music Video

This song expresses the courage and strong will to pursue one’s dreams.

Released in August 2020, it was selected as the 23rd opening theme for the popular anime ONE PIECE.

As the first installment of Da-iCE’s six-month consecutive release plan, it was created with a focus on the theme of “vision.” The lyrics, written by Sota Hanamura, are notable for their powerful message.

The song celebrates the spirit of adventure in taking on unknown worlds with your friends and the importance of staying true to yourself.

Conveying the value of moving forward without being defeated by adversity, this track is sure to encourage everyone taking on events at sports days and athletic festivals together with their teammates!

peace signYonezu Kenshi2rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

A powerful song themed around challenge and growth makes the perfect cheer anthem to support practice for sports days and athletic festivals.

Included on the album BOOTLEG, released in November 2017, and chosen as the opening theme for Season 2 of the anime My Hero Academia, this track sings about the importance of moving forward by overcoming past failures and regrets.

With its bright, energetic sound, it fills listeners with courage and hope.

It’s sure to be a song that gives a push to everyone working hard toward their sports day or athletic festival.

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon3rank/position

Shin Takarajima / Sakanaction SIT Band - Sapporo International Information High School Wind Ensemble

This is a lively song brimming with children’s excitement for unknown adventures.

Created by Sakanaction, it was produced in September 2015 as the theme song for the film “Bakuman.” Its retro synthesizer sound and upbeat rhythm are striking, and the production that evokes the late 1980s to early 1990s makes you feel as if you’ve slipped back in time.

Giving you the courage to take a bold step into the future, this track is perfect for a school sports day entrance scene or a dance number! It will fill the venue with a bright mood and put smiles on everyone’s faces.

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN4rank/position

I tried dancing 'Sugar Song and Bitter Step' in front of the Eiffel Tower

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a rock band known for their powerful vocals and high-level musicianship.

Their 2015 release “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is a danceable track packed with vibrant charm.

The lively guitar tones in the intro make you want to step along.

Its refreshing melody line, carried by a rhythmic tempo, will resonate with you.

Whether you go for technical choreography or arrange it for beginners, this uptempo song will liven up any school or cultural festival!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

migratory bird[Alexandros]5rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

When it comes to songs that take the excitement of intense events like relays, ball toss games, and tug-of-war to the next level, “Wataridori” tops the list.

Released in 2015 by the band [Alexandros], known for their distinctive rock sound, it has become a beloved staple at school sports days and athletic festivals.

The lyrics, themed around a bird flying endlessly, perfectly match the image of students taking on various events.

With its grand drumming and rhythmic guitar work, it’s a brisk yet passionate rock number that makes you want to start running.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE6rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Blue and Summer

A rock band massively popular among young people, Mrs.

GREEN APPLE released “Ao to Natsu” in 2018.

Beloved as a quintessential youth anthem, it remains highly popular.

Its exhilarating band sound perfectly matches school sports festivals where students sprint across the field.

The song portrays the inner strength to keep one’s passion alive despite hitting walls in love, club activities, and friendships.

Its fiery lines resonate in the heart, reminding everyone that they are the protagonists of their own youth.

It’s an essential rock tune to energize any student-centered sports day.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts7rank/position

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

The song written as the opening theme for season 2 of the anime Mashle: Magic and Muscles features a catchy, rhythmic sound and an addictive track.

Its lyrics carry a strong message that embodies the protagonist’s determination to take on a world where magic is the norm using nothing but physical strength.

The track’s appeal lies in Creepy Nuts’ hip-hop style blended with elements of Jersey club for a fresh sonic approach.

As a tie-in with the anime airing since January 2024, it has garnered attention, and a cute dance has also trended on social media.

The piece offers a musicality anyone can enjoy, while also serving as a motivational anthem that gives a push to those working hard.

It’s a perfect song for junior high school students dedicated to their clubs and studies.