Ranking of Popular Band Songs Among University Students [2026]

Kokoro-eroodo obu mejyaa78rank/position

Road of Major / Kokoro-e

This is a song by Road of Major that powerfully paints the “picture of the heart” hidden in one’s chest.

Its passionate message—“No matter how many times you stumble, seize the future you dreamed of with your own hands!”—resonates with listeners.

Released in November 2004, this was their major-label debut single and served as the opening theme for the first season of the NHK Educational anime Major.

It can be called a rousing anthem that gives courage to high school baseball players chasing the white ball, and to everyone striving toward a big goal.

Footsteps ~Be StrongMr.Children79rank/position

Mr.Children “Footsteps” Live from TOUR 2015 REFLECTION

A popular song that was also used as the theme for the drama “Nobunaga Concerto.” Described in the show as a motivational anthem that gives you a push forward, it was reportedly completed after numerous rewrites and marks Mr.

Children’s first self-produced track.

Perhaps for that reason, it carries a vibe of taking a new step.

While it’s not uptempo, it could work well for intermission staging or as background music.

DOLLSCANDAL80rank/position

SCANDAL 「DOLL」 ‐Music Video

This track by SCANDAL is a rock number that captures a yearning for freedom and a pure desire for love.

Despite their cute looks, they drew attention as a high school girl band delivering gritty garage rock.

Released in October 2008 as their major-label debut single, it peaked at No.

26 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

With heavy radio airplay nationwide, it sparked a big reaction.

If you’re forming a band for a school festival, this is definitely a song you should perform.

It will surely convey your feelings to the audience.

With its youthful, energetic sound and relatable lyrics, it’s guaranteed to get the crowd going!

Shangri-LaChatto Monchī81rank/position

Chatmonchy “Shangri-La” Music Video

This is Chatmonchy’s third single, used as the ending theme for the TV anime Hataraki Man.

While it’s a straightforward rock number, the irregular meter in the chorus serves as a hook.

None of the parts are technically difficult, but the bass line—though mostly root notes—features frequent moves up to the high frets that create the song’s groove, so playing it accurately helps capture the overall feel.

With its catchy melody and comfortable beat, it’s a number that would likely go over well when performed at school festivals or cultural events.

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DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE82rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video

An encouraging anthem that gently stays by your side and gives you a push forward, dedicated to everyone who feels anxiety and uncertainty in the midst of youth.

With Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s signature emotional, catchy melodies and lyrics rich with messages that boost self-esteem, it resonates deeply.

Released in January 2025, the song was written for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.

GREEN APPLE 18-sai Matsuri” and featured a special performance alongside 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation.

Play it as the finale of a sports day or school athletic festival, and you’re sure to end on a moving, memorable note!

Critical HitRADWIMPS83rank/position

RADWIMPS – A Masterstroke [Official Music Video]

This is a rock anthem packed with a grand message that resonates with young people, included by RADWIMPS in their December 2013 album “X to O to Tsumi to.” Riding on powerful guitar riffs and driving drum rhythms, it portrays the struggles and growth of a protagonist trying to find their own path in the midst of youth.

Its uncompromising alternative sound is brimming with energy, making it perfect for opening or closing ceremonies at school sports days.

The music video was filmed at Ageo Municipal Baseball Stadium in Saitama Prefecture and features a massive scale with 1,500 extras.

This work strongly supports students in the thick of their youth and those standing at life’s crossroads.

It’s the perfect song when you need the courage to take a new step forward.

bouquetback number84rank/position

back number – Bouquet (Short ver.)

back number is a band popular among university students, and their popularity is expected to keep rising.

Their song Hanataba starts off like a conversation between a couple, with warm and heartwarming lyrics.

It’s a band song that’s especially popular with men, so it’s highly recommended for college students to sing at karaoke.