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

Loverssumika57rank/position

sumika / Lovers【Music Video】

sumika is a rock band that captivates many listeners with refreshing melodies and heartwarming messages.

Originally released in March 2016 as a limited-edition single, this song was created in gratitude to fans and members after overcoming the hardship of a hiatus.

It became widely known when it was selected as the theme song for the “Mune-Kyun Sukatto” segment of the TV show “Tsuukai TV Sukatto Japan,” and it’s now beloved as a wedding staple.

Its brisk rhythm and catchy melody are perfect for school festival stages, too.

With handclaps and call-and-response, this pop tune is sure to bring the whole venue together in excitement!

SolaninASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION58rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Soranin'

Released in 2010 as the theme song for the film Solanin, which moved audiences all across Japan, this track is quintessential ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION.

Its dramatic lyrics—sung with someone special in mind—will surely resonate with you whether you’re performing it or listening to it at a school festival.

It’s a classic packed with moments that dip and soar, with plenty of highlights to captivate.

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idolYOASOBI59rank/position

YOASOBI "Idol" Official Music Video

A song by YOASOBI that drew widespread attention as the opening theme for the anime “Oshi no Ko.” It captures the protagonist’s turbulent emotions as they waver between the ideal and the reality of being an idol, set to an aggressive musical style.

Released digitally in April 2023, it sparked a huge reaction both in Japan and abroad, becoming the first Japanese song to top the Billboard Global Excl.

U.S.

chart.

With a unique atmosphere reminiscent of performances at live houses in Akihabara, it’s guaranteed to fire up any karaoke session.

Highly recommended not only for idol fans but also for those who don’t usually listen to anime songs.

Marigoldaimyon60rank/position

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A song by Aimyon that delicately portrays both the joy and the heartache of love.

It layers the fleeting yet beautiful feelings of romance onto the language of flowers for marigolds.

With a gentle melody, it weaves scenes of intimate moments with a lover and the belief that hearts remain connected even when apart.

Released in August 2018, the song captivated many, becoming the first by a domestic artist to surpass 100 million streams.

It’s a great pick for university students—perfect for getting hyped at karaoke with friends or for singing your heart out solo.

silhouetteKANA-BOON61rank/position

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

How about a masterpiece whose driving guitar riffs and powerful band sound strike straight to the heart? It’s a single released in November 2014 by KANA-BOON, a rock band formed in Osaka.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Naruto Shippuden, it sparked major buzz both in Japan and abroad.

This work conveys a resolve to move forward while recognizing that past experiences and encounters shape who we are today, holding what’s precious close to our hearts.

Vocalist Maguro Taniguchi’s emotional voice powerfully encourages students who put in daily effort toward their big moment.

It’s the perfect cheer song for heated events like relays and pep rallies!

Fanfaresumika62rank/position

sumika / Fanfare [Music Video]

The refreshing sound gets my spirits soaring! This is a song by sumika, a rock band from Kanagawa Prefecture, released in August 2018 as a double A-side single.

It was newly written as the opening theme for the animated feature film “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.” Its straightforward message—urging us to keep moving toward hope and light—resonates deeply.

The pop-rock sound woven from the brisk acoustic guitar strumming and sparkling piano is a perfect match for a sunny playing field.

Brimming with positive energy, this track is ideal for moments of new beginnings and serves as a rousing anthem that will make player entrances truly exhilarating!

Gather round! Party people!Yabai T-shatsu Yasan63rank/position

Yabai T-Shirts Yasan – “Gather Around! Party People” Music Video [Major Version]

A humorous EDM-flavored party song that depicts party and club scenes.

With a unique worldview, it captures images like glow-in-the-dark sunglasses and EDM dancing, and satirically portrays a stereotypical party-people image alongside a lively melody.

Released in November 2016 as a track on the album “We love Tank-top,” the song was selected as SPACE SHOWER TV’s “POWER PUSH,” helping boost the band’s recognition.

It’s the perfect track to hype up school festivals and live events.