[College Students] Karaoke Popularity Rankings by Generation [2026]

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN57rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

A song that enjoys great popularity among college students.

It isn’t a recent release, but it’s beloved as a karaoke staple.

For the band that performs it, BUMP OF CHICKEN, this track was their first to reach the top three on the Oricon charts and was the song that ignited their popularity.

Perfect-Sense DreamerONE OK ROCK58rank/position

ONE OK ROCK "The Totally Sensational Dreamer"

A hugely popular song by the band ONE OK ROCK, adored by young people.

It also made headlines because professional figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu listens to it.

With its up-tempo feel, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at karaoke! It’s easy to sing for both men and women.

Cinderella BoySaucy Dog59rank/position

Saucy Dog “Cinderella Boy” Music Video <5th Mini Album “Lazy Sunday” Released on 2021.8.25>

A heartrending song portraying the pain and conflict of love is capturing the hearts of college students.

Saucy Dog’s lyrics deftly express the protagonist’s complex emotions as they struggle with the gap between ideals and reality.

Paired with a melodic sound, it evokes deep empathy.

Included on the mini-album “Lazy Sunday,” released in August 2021, the track led to the band’s first television performance on Music Station in January the following year.

It’s recommended for those wrestling with romantic troubles or wanting to let out the feelings buried deep inside.

This piece shines whether you sing it solo at karaoke or share the experience with friends and resonate together.

cherrysupittsu60rank/position

Spitz / Cherry

It’s a song with an easy-to-grasp rhythm—not too up-tempo, but not as slow as a ballad.

The original key is high, making it easy for women to sing.

It also features a catchy, memorable melody and lyrics that many people can hum along to.

Que sera, seraMrs. GREEN APPLE61rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Que Sera Sera” Official Music Video

A song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that celebrates the strength to overcome life’s setbacks.

Its catchy melody is unforgettable after just one listen, and the lyrics make striking use of the phrase “que sera sera.” Released in April 2023, it garnered major attention as a TV drama theme and in commercials.

It became a huge hit, surpassing 200 million streams, and won an Excellent Work Award at the Japan Record Awards.

It’s the perfect track to hype up a night out with friends or a karaoke session—sing it together, and it’s sure to resonate with everyone.

First LoveUtada Hikaru62rank/position

Hikaru Utada – First Love

This song is a bittersweet breakup ballad loved across generations.

It’s such a well-known classic that many people have probably sung it at karaoke.

It’s a perfect track for when you want to immerse yourself in heartbreak and have a good cry.

Even amid the sadness, the song offers a glimmer of hope.

hundreds of millions of light-yearsOmoinotake63rank/position

Omoinotake | Hundreds of Millions of Light-Years [Official Music Video]

This song captivates with its beautiful melody and lyrics that resonate with young listeners.

Its portrayal of feelings for a loved one far away—transcending time and space—is sure to strike a chord with many.

Released in January 2024 and chosen as the opening theme for the TBS Tuesday drama “Eye Love You,” the track fully showcases Omoinotake’s delicate musical sensibilities, making it a piece that truly seeps into the listener’s heart.

Sing it at karaoke, and it’s guaranteed to bring everyone together as it stirs memories of a lover or someone special.

It’s also a perfect way to wrap up a night out with friends or a group date.