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 Days (101–110)
Apply false eyelasheskyarī pamyu pamyu
This is the debut single by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, a female singer who is also active as a fashion model and TV personality, and who enjoys immense popularity especially among younger generations.
Released ahead of schedule in 73 countries including Japan—the most ever for a Japanese artist—it made a striking impression on the world.
The fusion of producer Yasutaka Nakata’s pop, fairytale-like sound with Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s voice and aura—fancy yet mysterious—surely left a powerful mark on the youth of those now in their twenties.
It’s a track with irresistibly catchy phrases and melodies that stick with you after just one listen.
Love so sweetarashi
There’s a perfect song for those in their twenties who spent their youth in the 2000s to early 2010s: Arashi’s “Love so sweet.” Released in 2007, it was beloved by many as the theme song for the hit drama Boys Over Flowers 2 (Hana Yori Dango 2).
With Arashi’s signature pop melodies and catchy sound, it still resonates with countless listeners today.
It’s a nostalgia-packed track that brings back memories from that time.
With its gentle, refreshing vibe, the song is sure to give listeners energy and hope.
Snow Magic FantasySEKAI NO OWARI
SEKAI NO OWARI’s “Snow Magic Fantasy” is a beloved song that was released in 2014.
The track even topped the Oricon charts, so you probably heard it in all sorts of places.
At the time of its release, SEKAI NO OWARI was widely known, especially among students, and enjoyed immense popularity.
Among their songs, this one stands out for its fantastical worldview and beautiful melody, evoking a distinctly wintry atmosphere.
LemonYonezu Kenshi
An emotionally moving song by Kenshi Yonezu that tenderly looks back on a beloved person with deep affection.
Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Unnatural,” this track was written based on Yonezu’s own experience of losing his grandfather, singing of the sorrow of loss and the profound presence of a loved one.
While facing the grief of what’s gone, it etches the beautiful memories of that person in one’s heart.
Anyone who has lost someone dear will surely resonate with the feelings embedded in this song.
Since its release, it has repeatedly broken download ranking records and topped the charts for two consecutive years.
It is also included on the album “STRAY SHEEP,” captivating many with its heartfelt vocals and melody.
Mass-produced boyfriendSHISHAMO
Released in June 2019, it’s one of the most striking songs in SHISHAMO’s catalog! With Asako Miyazaki’s candid vocals, the heartbreak and loneliness of unrequited love resonate deeply with listeners.
Though not based on real experiences, the lyrics are written from the perspective of an imaginary protagonist, like a short manga, and they have struck a chord with many people.
Comparing yourself to the boyfriend chosen by the person you like…
hasn’t everyone felt that at some point? I think it’s a song that brings back the bittersweet memories of youth.
[A Must-See for People in Their 20s] A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days (111–120)
If I Fall in LoveCrystal Kay
This song was chosen as the theme for the drama “Koi ni Ochitara: Boku no Seikō no Himitsu” and became a hit.
It’s a track by Crystal Kay, a singer renowned for her beautiful vocal work, released as a single in 2005.
The mature atmosphere of the melody and her voice blend so well that you can’t help but be drawn in.
The lyrics, which reflect a straightforward, unwavering love, are also part of its charm.
It’s a song that can lift you up when you’re tired or feeling down.
If you listen to it after turning 20, you might get a different impression than you did back then.
astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN
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!