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

StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE22rank/position

Usable for sports day! Mrs. GREEN APPLE “StaRt” easy dance choreography ♪ #SportsDay #PEdance #MrsGreenApple

This is a song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that captured many hearts with its exhilarating pop-rock sound and uplifting message.

It was included on their major-label debut mini-album “Variety,” released in July 2015, and was also featured in a Kao Merit commercial in 2017.

Riding an up-tempo rhythm, the song celebrates the small joys hidden in everyday life and the courage to take on new challenges.

Brimming with youthful performance and a pleasant, positive energy, it’s a perfect track for school festivals or sports day dance routines.

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon23rank/position

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

This lively song is brimming with the excitement of children embarking on unknown adventures.

Created by Sakanaction, it was produced in September 2015 as the theme song for the film Bakuman.

Its retro synthesizer tones and brisk beat are striking, evoking the sound of the late 1980s to early 1990s and making you feel as if you’ve time-traveled.

Giving you the courage to take a bold step toward the future, this track is perfect for a sports day entrance scene! It fills the entire venue with a bright mood and is a song that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.

migratory bird[Alexandros]24rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

[Alexandros] is a four-piece rock band that captivates fans with songs that sprinkle modern essence into a classic rock sound.

Their major-label debut single Watari-dori, released as a double A-side with Dracula La, is still known as one of their signature tracks.

The guitar riff in the intro, which sets the tone for the song, actually uses only four notes and is simple, making it something any guitarist will want to play.

The rhythm section is also straightforward in terms of playing skill, but because drive and bounce are crucial, beginner band members should practice syncing tightly with one another.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Zankyo SankaAimer25rank/position

Aimer「Zankyosanka」MUSIC VIDEO（Demon Slayer:Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc Theme Song）

Released in January 2022 as Aimer’s 20th single, this song was selected as the opening theme for the popular anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Entertainment District Arc.

It topped the Billboard Japan Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks, surpassed 200 million streams, and received a Special Award at the Japan Record Awards.

Masahiro Tobinai’s bold arrangement features resplendent brass and strings that brilliantly capture both the opulence of the red-light district and the tension of battle.

The lyrics, imbued with a powerful resolve to overcome past pain and resound into the future, embody the very determination of characters who confront their fate.

Performed even in cheering scenes at Koshien, it’s a song cherished not only by anime fans but also by many listeners running through their youth.

A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki26rank/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.

New My NormalMrs. GREEN APPLE27rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “New My Normal” Official Music Video

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE is a three-piece rock band that has gained popularity with songs featuring a piercing high-tone voice and lyrical lyrics.

Their 5th digital single, “New My Normal,” is the track that marked the beginning of the band’s “Phase 2” in 2022.

Because the arrangement develops at a dizzying pace, be careful not to rush or drag the rhythm in any part.

With its exhilarating sense of speed that lifts the energy, it’s an ideal uptempo number for school festivals as well.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai28rank/position

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

This song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai vividly portrays the rush of sprinting through the fleeting moments of youth.

Released in July 2024, its uptempo sound and distinctive melodic lines resonate powerfully with young listeners.

It carries a message: there’s no need to be embarrassed about giving your all—treasure the experiences you can only have in this very moment.

The track is included on the album “Channel U” and was also chosen as the theme song for ABEMA’s original romance show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.

Summer Vacation 2024.” It’s a perfect fit for scenes of coming together at school sports days or athletic events, making it an ideal choice as background music for group gymnastics as well.