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

Adolescent Complexkessoku bando43rank/position

TV anime “Bocchi the Rock!” opening sequence / “Seishun Complex” #Kessoku Band

Kessoku Band is the rock band that appears within the TV anime Bocchi the Rock!, which is based on Aki Hamaji’s four-panel manga.

The opening theme used in the anime, “Seishun Complex,” features a catchy guitar riff and a tight rock sound that really amps up the energy.

Its catchy melody and driving tempo, combined with the anime’s popularity, make it perfect for livening up a school festival.

It’s an upbeat tune that’s fun to play and recommended in terms of both difficulty and excitement.

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Hoshino Takashi

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InfernoMrs. GREEN APPLE44rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Inferno

How about a rock number with a sound that amps you up from the intro and irresistibly sharp, cutting vocals? Crafted by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, this track was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Fire Force.

Since Motoki Omori, who handles vocals and guitar, was a fan of the original manga, he distilled its worldview into the music.

It was released digitally in July 2019 and is also included on their album Attitude.

According to Oricon’s figures, its cumulative streaming plays surpassed 500 million by 2025, showing its enduring popularity.

With a sound that exquisitely balances “darkness” and “a sense of speed,” it’s perfect BGM for a competition where everything is decided right here and now!

One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS45rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “One More”

A classic cheer song! This signature track by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS—a group that gained popularity with a style that blends J-pop with hip-hop elements—was released in August 2010.

“Ato Hitotsu,” a timeless masterpiece etched in many people’s memories as a summer high school baseball cheer song, is also included on the album “Funky Monkey Babys 4.” Its lyrics carry the message that even in tough situations, taking just one more step can bring you closer to your dreams, stirring the hearts of listeners.

It’s guaranteed to amplify emotional moments, from entrance marches to climactic competitions.

A perfect number to send a passionate cheer to everyone giving their all at sports days and athletic festivals!

No.1DISH//46rank/position

DISH// – No.1 [Official Video] (TV Anime “My Hero Academia” Season 5 Opening Theme / MY HERO ACADEMIA OPENING THEME)

A guitar-rock tune that powerfully resonates with a message of charging straight toward your goals with an unwavering heart! Released by DISH// in May 2021, this track stands out with its exhilarating piano and edgy guitar sound.

It embodies a strong will to keep moving toward the light of hope without losing sight of your destination, along with a determination to live authentically without making excuses.

Chosen as the opening theme for the first cour of Season 5 of the TV anime My Hero Academia, it won strong support from anime fans as well.

It’s a powerful cheering song you’ll want to hear when you need the courage to face forward—before an important match, in moments of anxiety, or anytime you’re preparing your heart for what’s ahead.

Otona Blueatarashii gakkou no rīdāzu47rank/position

ATARASHII GAKKO! – Otona Blue (Official Music Video)

A vibrant song by Atarashii Gakko! that vividly portrays the struggles and growth of youth.

It expresses the gap between a mature appearance and a pure inner self, and the desire to connect heart-to-heart.

Released in April 2023, it drew attention on TikTok with the trending “head-shaking dance.” They opened the year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen, proving their popularity.

With down-to-earth lyrics and dazzling dance performance, it’s perfect for energizing cultural and school festivals.

Highly recommended if you’re looking for a captivating track that resonates with young people.

Effeminate; overly sentimental; being clingy/whiny (context-dependent)Gōruden Bonbā48rank/position

Effeminate / Golden Bomber – Music Video

Familiar from TV and the NHK New Year’s Eve music show, this song captures the feelings of a heartbroken man with an upbeat melody.

Its message—filled with lingering attachment to an ex, regret, and the wish to be together again—has resonated with many.

Released in October 2009, the track has spawned yearly “buzzword” versions that reflect the spirit of the times.

In fiscal 2013, it won the JASRAC Gold Award, a remarkable feat for an indie release.

It was also used in a House Foods “Mega Shaki” commercial, gaining popularity across a wide audience.

Perfect for amping up sports festivals and dance events, it’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike can enjoy dancing to.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi49rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW

The exhilarating melody and powerful drum patterns brilliantly capture the sensation of sprinting forward.

Crafted by Kenshi Yonezu, this piece portrays the courage and passion of taking on figure skating through the metaphor of a bow and arrow.

It vividly depicts both the challenger striving to surpass themselves and the bonds with those who support them, achieving a fine balance between the allure of sports and human drama.

Released in January 2025, it was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime “Medalist.” Yonezu, a fan of the original work, personally requested to create the anime’s theme song—a background that is reflected in the work’s high level of polish.

From brisk exit scenes to dynamic performances at school sports days, the song’s tone complements the powerful movements of children and stands out as one of its key charms.