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

Full-Power BoySukima Suichi29rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Zenryoku Shonen” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / Zenryoku Shonen Music Video

Celebrated as one of Sukima Switch’s signature songs, this track sings of the strength of a pure heart that evokes the freshness of youth.

Carrying a message about the importance of holding on to youthful passion, it inspires the courage and energy to face difficulties.

It rekindles the playful spirit and willingness to take on challenges that are often lost in adulthood, reminding us of the beauty of living life to the fullest.

Released in April 2004, the song was featured in an NTT Docomo commercial for the Kansai region and became a key work that showcased Sukima Switch’s musical evolution.

It gives a boost to students practicing for sports days and athletic festivals, and serves as a reliable ally when you want to give your all toward a goal.

Walking with youNovelbright30rank/position

Novelbright – Walking with you [Official Music Video]

This is a coming-of-age number whose straightforward feelings and moving melody resonate in the heart.

Its powerful message—singing of the resolve and hope to walk through life with the one you love—inevitably stirs your emotions.

Released in October 2018 as the lead track of the album “SKYWALK,” it also drew attention as an insert song for AbemaTV’s “Koisuru Weekend Homestay 2020 Spring.” Novelbright’s sound, blending strength with wistfulness, is beautifully expressed through Takenaka’s soaring vocals.

If you sing it at a school festival, you’ll be able to fully showcase both your vocal ability and expressiveness!

Odoru-LoopFurederikku31rank/position

Frederic “Oddloop” Music Video | Frederic “oddloop”

A dance-rock number with a bouncy, high-speed beat and a four-on-the-floor rhythm that feels great.

Its charm lies in lyrics sprinkled with quirky wordplay and an addictive melody you’ll want to replay over and over.

Featured on Frederic’s major-label debut, the mini-album “oddloop” released in September 2014, the track was used as the ending theme for the anime “Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches” and in UNIQLO’s web commercials.

The unforgettable rhythm naturally makes you want to move, making it perfect for a culture-festival stage where you want to get the whole venue fired up! Why not take some free steps and share a fun time with everyone?

My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS32rank/position

RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (movie ver.) [Official Music Video]

This is a RADWIMPS song created for director Makoto Shinkai’s animated film, singing of a fateful love that transcends time.

It’s a pop tune that conveys strength amid poignancy, marked by energetic guitar sounds and a driving, up-tempo rhythm.

Included on the album “Your Name.” released in August 2016, the track drew major attention alongside the film’s mega-hit success, and it’s also beloved as a staple at school festivals where everyone can get excited together.

If you simplify the guitar and drum rhythm parts, it can be enjoyed in performance regardless of skill level.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION33rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite” (M-1 Grand Prix 2024 Promotion Video Theme Song)

A searing, emotional masterpiece that grabs high schoolers’ hearts and never lets go! Its grand melody and exhilarating, driving guitar sound will fill the entire school festival venue with excitement.

The lyrics portray real, down-to-earth youth who question their own purpose, face failure, and keep moving forward—sure to stir your soul.

Released by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION in August 2004, this song was chosen as the opening theme for the popular anime Fullmetal Alchemist.

It’s a classic that begs to be performed live, uniting the whole crowd in a frenzy.

Highly recommended even for those just starting out with band performances!

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism34rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Fate [Official Video]

Official HIGE DANDism is a band that has gained popularity for their piercingly high-toned vocals and classic, mainstream pop sound.

This song they perform is an energetic number where piano and brass tones layer together and gradually build in intensity.

It stands by the conflicts and anxieties you face before a big challenge, singing as if to powerfully push you forward.

Released as a single in July 2019 and included on the masterpiece album “Traveler,” it was also selected that year as the “ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song” and the theme for the TV program “Netto Koshien.” It’s perfect as opening BGM for cultural and school festivals, or for brass band performances.

A highly recommended track that fires up the heart and colors a page of youth.

KICKBACKYonezu Kenshi35rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – KICKBACK

Kenshi Yonezu, who draws attention for his genre-blurring musicality from electronica to folk, released his 13th single in November 2022 as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man—a track that sonically paints protagonist Denji’s desires and inner turmoil.

Its lyrics, where a thirst for happiness collides with the emptiness of reality, resonate with the mindset of young people trying to claw their way up from rock bottom.

The fierce drum’n’bass-infused beat and dizzying key changes are an emotional roller coaster in themselves.

With dance videos spreading across social media, it also meshes perfectly with the digitally native Gen Z audience.

It’s an impulsive rock tune for anyone craving a jolt in their everyday life.