[University Students] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]

We Will Rock YouQueen64rank/position

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

With its powerful handclaps and stomping rhythm, this staple track energizes sports festivals and dance events.

Released in October 1977 by the British rock band Queen from the album “News of the World,” the song celebrates the determination to overcome setbacks and hardships in pursuit of victory.

As a rousing anthem symbolizing unity and fighting spirit, it continues to be embraced across sports scenes worldwide.

The foot stomps and handclaps recorded by the band members themselves create a sense of togetherness that draws in the audience, and in 2002 it was also adopted as the title song for the musical “We Will Rock You.” It’s the perfect choice for those who want to bring an entire venue together during school sports days or dance performances.

silhouetteKANA-BOON65rank/position

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

Silhouette by KANA-BOON is a song that could be said to have defined an era in the Japanese rock scene.

It’s well-known as a theme song for the anime Naruto Shippuden.

Packed with the band’s appeal—catchiness and a simple, easy-to-listen-to structure—it’s a single that really showcases them.

Since it’s an up-tempo track, it’s recommended as background music for running events like relays.

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Hane Keisuke

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Prefacemakaroni enpitsu66rank/position

Macaroni Enpitsu “Hashirigaki” MV

If you’re looking for a refreshing yet bittersweet rock track that captures youthful days, “Hashirigaki” is a great pick.

Released in 2021 by Macaroni Empitsu, a band known for emotive songs that reflect the hearts of young people, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Crayon Shin-chan: Shrouded in Mystery! The Flowers of Tenkasu Academy.

Its mellow band sound unfolds over a brisk rhythm.

It’s a coming-of-age song that turns both joyful and painful moments into memories.

If you need BGM for a sports day or school athletics festival, give it a listen.

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mutō

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You don’t listen to rock.aimyon67rank/position

Aimyon – You Don’t Listen to Rock [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

It’s a song whose vivid, scene-rich lyrics and striking melody truly resonate.

The lyrics portray the protagonist’s bittersweet feelings with realism, capturing the emotions of those in love.

Released in September 2017, it became a hot topic, receiving heavy radio rotation.

It has also become a major hit, surpassing 100 million streams.

It’s a track that feels like a snapshot of youth—one that anyone who has ever had a crush, or fallen for someone, can relate to.

Even if you don’t share the same musical tastes as the person you like, listening to this song will surely help your hearts connect.

It’s a song that will cheer on your feelings of love.

flash[Alexandros]68rank/position

[Alexandros] – Flash (MV) Theme Song of Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway's Flash

[Alexandros]’s song captivates listeners with a rock sound brimming with momentum that soars from the very first line and a grand, expansive scale.

The lyrics, interweaving opposing emotions—anxieties and hopes about growing up, loneliness and bonds, past and future—resonate deeply in the heart.

Released in May 2021 as their 19th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway.

It’s a perfect track not only for dances and events like school sports festivals, but also for moments when you want to elevate each other with your teammates or need the courage to face a new challenge.

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA69rank/position

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

This song depicts the courage to face adversity, with a powerful rock sound and a richly projected vocal that represents modern anime.

It captures the indomitable spirit of a protagonist striving to overcome countless hardships and the strong will to protect loved ones, resulting in a striking piece.

LiSA’s vocals brilliantly convey the story’s themes.

Released in April 2019, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, became a massive hit, and earned numerous accolades, including an appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its dynamic, high-impact sound is perfect for sports days and athletic festivals, and it also works great as a rousing cheer song everyone can enjoy together.

We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā70rank/position

I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.

A powerful anthem that gives you a push in those youthful moments.

Released by Sambomaster in February 2010, this song carries a warm message that boosts self-affirmation and the spirit to take on challenges.

Centered on themes of “not giving up,” “moving forward,” and “possibility,” it offers a gentle embrace for everyone’s anxieties and doubts while giving the courage to take a new step.

It has been featured in a Nissan commercial and as the image song for the film Cheer☆Dance, resonating with many hearts.

It’s a classic that students training for sports festivals, as well as anyone standing at a crossroads in life, should hear.