A Must-See for Those in Their 20s: A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days
People in their 20s today—what songs come to mind when you hear the phrase “youth anthem”? The songs you listened to as a student can instantly bring back the fun times and the tough moments, right? Why not take this opportunity to look back on those memorable classics from your youth? In this article, we’ll introduce songs that people in their 20s find nostalgic.
Surely, memories of what happened back then—exchanges with friends, and the person you had a crush on—will all come vividly flooding back.
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[A Must-See for People in Their 20s] A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Memories (71–80)
Geeshōjo jidai
A song by Girls’ Generation, a female idol group that debuted not only in their home country of South Korea but also in Japan, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, and across Europe and the United States, becoming top stars in the K-pop idol scene.
Beyond being a smash hit that put the group’s name on the map, some people may have first learned about it through the parody unit “Showa Jidai” performed by Masahiro Nakai of SMAP with the Oyaji Dancers on the TV show SMAP×SMAP.
Its irresistibly cute, poppy melody and fast, thrilling beat likely made a big impact on those who were in their twenties at the time.
It’s an iconic number that cemented K-pop’s popularity in Japan.
R.Y.U.S.E.I.Sandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu
R.Y.U.S.E.I.
by Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE, released in 2014, features a dazzling dance beat rooted in EDM.
The “Running Man” choreography showcased during the instrumental break became a sensation, drawing attention alongside its danceable sound.
The lyrics convey a passionate message about repeatedly challenging oneself in pursuit of dreams and goals.
If you’re in your twenties, it may bring back memories of friends or lovers from that time.
Give this fiery, exhilarating dance track a listen.
Fukuwarai (a traditional Japanese “lucky laugh” face-making game)Takahashi Yuu
Yu Takahashi has many songs that give you the strength to keep going in tough times and help you stay positive.
His track “Fukuwarai” is exactly one of those, a number that reaches not only younger listeners but people of all ages and moods, slipping right in and giving them power.
Released in 2011 as Takahashi’s third single, it carries that distinctive sense of reassurance his music often has—like an unwavering ally by your side.
Listening to this song brings that same comfort; it’s like nourishment for the heart.
A Must-See for People in Their 20s: A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days (81–90)
I want to be kinder.Saitō Kazuyoshi
A heartwarming medium-tempo ballad imbued with a wish for kindness.
Released in November 2011, it drew attention as the theme song for the Nippon TV drama “I’m Mita, Your Housekeeper.” Kazuyoshi Saito’s warm vocals gently embrace the feelings of searching for a balance between strength and tenderness.
It reached No.
6 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, marking his highest position to date.
The CD has sold over 100,000 copies, making it the best-selling single of Saito’s career.
This is a song to listen to when you’re standing at a crossroads in life or when you want to deepen your bond with someone important.
BeginningBLUE ENCOUNT
Hajimari by BLUE ENCOUNT, known as the theme song for the 94th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
Set to a soothing melody line worthy of being called a beautiful melody, it portrays students devoted to their club activities.
Many listeners will surely relate to the lyrics that depict the effort built up over time and the anxieties they carry.
And reading the chorus lyrics gives you an even greater boost of courage.
It’s a highly recommended track not only for soccer players but for anyone who was involved in a club during their school days.
GuaranaSukima Suichi
Among Sukima Switch’s songs, this one is especially popular—the up-tempo groove paired with Takuya Ohashi’s powerful vocals is just so cool! It was used as the theme song for the 2006 film “Rough,” so hearing it probably brings the movie’s story back to mind, doesn’t it? The lyrics also carry a message that cheers on those who can’t bring themselves to confess their feelings, and I bet many people back then found the courage they needed through this song.
Heart Throbsnobobyknows̟+
It’s a punchy, feel-good upper tune! A signature track by the hip-hop group nobodyknows+, released as their third single in 2004.
It was used as the ending theme for the anime SD Gundam Force.
From the very start it ramps up the energy, building a sense of excitement.
Its snappy lyrics and flow are also big reasons for its popularity.
I bet some of you often sing it at karaoke, right? It’s perfect for everyone to sing together when you go to karaoke!
