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

ImaginationSPYAIR92rank/position

SPYAIR “Imagination” TV anime “Haikyu!!” opening theme

SPYAIR is a four-piece rock band whose announcement of a new vocalist in April 2023 has raised expectations for their future.

Their 14th single “Imagination,” used as the opening theme for the TV anime Haikyu!!, features an exhilarating, fast-paced ensemble that really amps up the energy.

With melodies and messages that evoke a favorable tailwind, it seems perfect for opening a school festival.

It’s a rock tune with a crisp band sound that feels great and will liven up any event.

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Hoshino Takashi

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The world is smiling at you.Little Glee Monster93rank/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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Make up your mind!Sabasusutā94rank/position

Sabasister – Make Up Your Mind! Music Video

Saba Sister’s exhilarating rock number.

Its candid lyrics and powerful sound hit straight to the heart.

Featured on their first full album “Kakugo o Kimero!” released in March 2024, this track is a perfect fit for their major-label debut.

Centered on themes of youth, growth, and inner struggle, it boldly sings about having the resolve to choose your own path.

With its straightforward message and driving, high‑energy melody, it’s ideal for kicking off a school culture festival or campus event.

It’s a song everyone can sing along to and get excited about.

For creating special memories that color a page of your youth, why not choose this track?

HeroAmuro Namie95rank/position

Hero – Namie Amuro (Full)

Namie Amuro’s “Hero” adds a touch of brilliance as the children exit the field, no matter the outcome of the competition.

The song was chosen as NHK’s theme for its Rio de Janeiro Olympic and Paralympic broadcasts.

With its grand, sweeping sound and uplifting lyrics—telling you “You’re not alone” and “Everyone’s got your back, so believe in yourself and move forward!”—it’s a perfect fit for a school sports day where classmates support one another as they compete.

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yuri

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Overdosenatori96rank/position

Natori – Overdose

Overdose, Nat(s)ori’s signature song with an impressive languid vibe.

The piece maintains a downer mood throughout, so the high parts are intentionally kept restrained.

Falsetto does appear, but it’s not used because the notes are high; it’s a deliberate stylistic choice.

So if you’re not comfortable with falsetto, singing those parts in chest voice is totally fine.

Whispery vocals sound cool on this track, but overdoing it can come off as narcissistic, so keep that in mind when you sing (lol).

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Ryo

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Cry BabyOfisharu Higedan Dism97rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Cry Baby [Official Video]

An ambitious work crafted by Official HIGE DANDism as the opening theme for the anime Tokyo Revengers.

The song fuses lyrics that brilliantly capture the anime’s worldview with an innovative sound that shifts keys roughly ten times.

It sings of the protagonist’s indomitable spirit in the face of fate, his comeback from setbacks, and the bonds with his friends, inspiring courage and emotion in listeners.

Since its release in May 2021, it peaked at No.

4 on Billboard JAPAN’s Japan Hot 100.

It continued to be a long-running hit, ranking 13th on the year-end chart for 2021.

When you want to strive toward your goals together with your cherished friends, this song is sure to be a pillar of support.

BREAKOUTSnow Man98rank/position

Snow Man「BREAKOUT」Music Video

A rock tune by Snow Man that expresses a life-or-death resolve to protect a loved one, set to powerful guitar riffs and a vibrant, driving beat.

With its exhilarating sound and energetic dance performance, it inspires courage and hope in the face of adversity.

Released in July 2024, the song serves as the theme for the film “Akabane Honoko’s Bodyguard,” starring member Raul, and its high-impact music video—shot over the course of more than 14 hours in total—also generated buzz.

It’s the perfect track to create an uplifting atmosphere at school festivals and cultural events, or to cheer on friends striving toward their dreams.