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

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN1rank/position

I tried dancing 'Sugar Song and Bitter Step' in front of the Eiffel Tower

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a rock band known for their overwhelming vocals and high-level musicianship.

Their 2015 release Sugar Song and Bitter Step is a danceable track packed with colorful charm.

The moment you hear the light, upbeat guitar in the intro, you can’t help but want to start stepping.

The refreshing melody line that unfolds with a rhythmic tempo also resonates with the heart.

It’s an uptempo tune that works both with technical choreography and beginner-friendly arrangements—perfect for livening up culture festivals and school festivals!

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mutō

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lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE2rank/position

[Lilac] Mrs. GREEN APPLE 'Flag & Easy Dance' — A simple arrangement dance you can perform at sports festivals and recitals!

A heartwarming cheer song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that gently embraces the youthful days where hope and anxiety coexist.

While tenderly acknowledging the loneliness and inner struggles we carry as time passes, it conveys the message: “Cherish yourself just as you are.” Released in April 2024 as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery” (Bokyaku Battery), it won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

Singing of unforgettable memories and bonds with cherished people, this song is perfect for group performances at school sports festivals and field days.

It fosters unity among students and helps create unforgettable moments.

Planet LoopNayutan Seijin3rank/position

[Reversed & Back View ver.] Planet Loop - I Tried Dancing [Yuno] dance/practice use

An irresistibly catchy and cute tune, ‘Planet Loop.’ It’s a track by NayutalieN, a Vocaloid producer also known for providing songs like ‘Meteo’ and ‘Gingira Galaxy.’ With a poppy, refreshing melody that makes your body start moving just by listening, and gentle choreography that kids and adults alike can dance to, it’s a recommended pick for anyone looking for an easy dance number.

There are plenty of dance cover videos, so you can practice thoroughly while watching.

It’s also hugely popular among the Vocaloid generation!

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sasashina

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RomanticismMrs. GREEN APPLE4rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Romanticism

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE is a rock band known for their piercing pop sensibilities and melodies brimming with euphoria.

This single, released in April 2019, was written specifically for a Shiseido SEA BREEZE commercial.

Crafted by Motoki Ohmori, the song depicts human love and the vitality of life on a grand scale, captivating listeners’ hearts.

Its colorful, bouncy sound and dynamic energy make it perfect for high schoolers who want to fire up a school festival live show.

It’s a highly recommended up-tempo tune that embraces the bittersweet exhilaration of youth and lets the entire venue come together and have fun.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN5rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

BUMP OF CHICKEN’s signature song “Tentai Kansoku” (Stargazing).

Watching this music video reminds me of how I used to look up at the sky over and over with the telescope we had at home, almost every night.

Even though it’s a song from the very beginning of the 21st century, it’s a timeless classic!

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE6rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Blue and Summer

Brimming with the sparkle and exhilaration of summer, this piece is perfect as BGM for sports days and athletic festivals.

Created by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, it was released in August 2018 as the theme song for the film “Aonatsu: 30 Days of Love.” It was later included on the album “Attitude.” Its refreshing band sound and a worldview that captures the brilliance of youth are the song’s key charms.

Overflowing with energy that gives listeners a push forward, it boosts the motivation of students practicing hard for the big day.

How about playing it during relays, cheer battles, and other moments when you want to heat up the field? It’s sure to become a cheer that resonates in the hearts of those working up a sweat.

Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya7rank/position

Where Our Blue Is / Tatsuya Kitani

Tatsuya Kitani’s song “Ao no Sumika” captivates with a beautiful, heart‑stirring melody that feels like a snapshot of a fleeting moment in youth.

Released in July 2023, it drew attention as the opening theme for the second season of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen.

The lyrics, which portray lost time and feelings that never reached their destination, resonate deeply with listeners.

Its sense of speed and drive makes it perfect for school sports days and athletic festivals.

It’s a track I especially recommend to those who are right in the midst of their youth.