Popular Youth Songs Ranking [2026]

ApollodorusMrs. GREEN APPLE64rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Apollodorus” Official Lyric Video

This work is a grand composition that expresses the athlete’s inner “calm” and “motion.” It delivers deep inspiration and courage to listeners—truly an anthem for everyone who takes on a challenge.

Released in July 2024, it was also used in broadcasts of the Paris Olympics.

It portrays the pain and anxiety experienced on the path toward a goal, as well as the strength to overcome them.

It’s a song we especially want students dedicated to their club activities and anyone striving toward their dreams to hear.

It’s a piece that lets you feel the breadth and depth of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s musicality.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number65rank/position

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

A signature song by back number that begins with a spacious guitar riff and resonates with poignant lyrics and a beautiful melody.

The lyrics, which depict the heartache of unrequited love in one’s youth, have struck a chord with many listeners.

Featured on the album “Love Story,” the track has remained beloved over time, even being used in a Kirin Brewery commercial in 2019.

Released in June 2013 as their eighth single, it has enjoyed massive popularity, with its music video surpassing 100 million views on YouTube.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when reminiscing about your youth or when you’re carrying feelings of unrequited love.

ANTENNAMrs. GREEN APPLE66rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「ANTENNA」Official Music Video

An energetic band sound that cranks up the excitement of a sports day to the max.

The melody woven by vocalist Motoki Omori will move your heart.

Portraying the will to press forward while carrying anxiety, this song by the hugely popular Mrs.

GREEN APPLE was also selected as the support song for Japan’s national team in Fuji TV’s “FIVB Paris Olympic Qualifiers / World Cup Volleyball 2023.” It’s the perfect BGM for those moments when you give your all in pursuit of victory.

A masterpiece with an overwhelming sense of scale, worthy of the passion of sports.

Blue Springback number67rank/position

back number – Aoi Haru (full)

This rock number by back number is characterized by its strummed guitars and exhilarating, fast-paced sound.

While wrestling with one’s own shortcomings, the down-to-earth message of desperately trying to keep looking forward carries a heat that can ignite the listener’s heart.

Released in November 2012 as the band’s seventh single, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “High School Entrance Exam” starring Masami Nagasawa, and also drew attention as the band’s first self-produced work.

For high school students feeling the pressure of daily studies and club activities, why not turn to this song when you hit a wall and use it as strength to push through? It’s sure to rouse a discouraged heart.

CHE.R.RYYUI68rank/position

YUI　『CHE.R.RY-short ver.-』

This song, which could be considered one of YUI’s signature tracks, refreshingly portrays the spark of romance that begins with a cellphone’s vibration.

The lyrics vividly and honestly express the budding feelings that grow through exchanging emails and the pure, irresistible urge to reply.

Paired with a light, acoustic guitar-driven sound, it creates an atmosphere that evokes the arrival of spring.

Released in March 2007, the track is included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE,” and was also featured in commercials for KDDI and Okinawa Cellular’s “LISMO!” service.

In addition, it was used as the ending theme for the anime “ReLIFE: Final Arc.” It’s a recommended listen for anyone who wants to recall the sweet beginnings of love or savor the feeling of spring.

youth↑THE HIGH-LOWS↓69rank/position

[Official] The High-Lows “Seishun” [14th Single (2000/5/24)] THE HIGH-LOWS / Seisyun

The 14th single by the Japanese rock band ↑THE HIGH-LOWS↓ was released in May 2000.

Chosen as the theme song for the TV drama “Legendary Teacher,” it became a popular track, reaching No.

8 on the Oricon chart.

Written and composed by Masatoshi Mashima, its lyrics—depicting rebelliousness and first love in student days—deeply resonate with listeners.

With a straightforward rock ensemble that conveys both the brilliance and anguish of youth, it’s an emotional rock tune.

In 2019, it was also featured in a SoftBank commercial, earning support from a wide range of generations.

HONEYL’Arc〜en〜Ciel70rank/position

L’Arc～en～Ciel「HONEY」-Music Clip-

A four-piece rock band L’Arc~en~Ciel’s 10th single, which was used as the ending theme for the soccer information program “Super Soccer.” Released simultaneously with “Kasou” and “Shinsoku ~lose control~,” this single stands apart from the other two—known for their manic, dark, and meticulously crafted styles—by delivering a refreshing arrangement built on a simple rock ensemble, and it became a major hit.

Its powerful sound can still get anyone in their 40s—who grew up with it—excited even today.

It’s a high-velocity rock tune with a satisfying sense of drive that cemented L’Arc~en~Ciel’s popularity and critical acclaim.

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Hoshino Takashi

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