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 Your 20s] A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days (21–30)
Song of the WheelsBUMP OF CHICKEN
It’s BUMP OF CHICKEN’s eighth single, released in 2004.
The lyrics unfold like a story and are utterly heartrending—many listeners were surely moved to tears.
For those who happened to be students when it came out, it has undoubtedly become a defining song of their youth.
ButterflyKōda Kumi
This is a signature song by Koda Kumi, a singer who was hugely active in the 2000s.
It was released in 2005 as her 16th single.
After being selected as the theme song for the drama “Cosme no Mahō 2,” it became a massive hit.
It earned tremendous support from women across generations in particular.
The reason, no doubt, lies in the lyrics that convey a powerful message: “I can shine even more!” Many people must have admired her and thought, “I want to be like that, too.” It’s a wonderful, cool coming-of-age song that will surely encourage you even now.
Kokoro-eroodo obu mejyaa
Some of you probably sing this often at karaoke.
It’s the signature song by the rock band Road of Major, released in 2004 as their major-label debut single.
It was used as the theme song for the anime Major: 1st Season and became a hot topic.
The way it kicks off with the vocals and gradually builds is already blazing! Kenichi Kitagawa’s singing and the youth-filled lyrics are a perfect match, and the whole track radiates incredible energy.
It’s a classic that inevitably makes me think back to my school days.
The BeginningONE OK ROCK
A little while back, it might have been BUMP OF CHICKEN or RADWIMPS, but especially for people in their early twenties, when you think of the quintessential Japanese rock band, you just can’t leave out ONE OK ROCK, right? And among those who play in bands, I bet a good number have covered their songs at some point.
This track was released as a single in 2012 and was later included on the album Jinsei×Boku=.
For our generation, ONE OK ROCK really is a charismatic presence, isn’t it?
My WayDef Tech
A long-running hit included on their smash 2005 debut album.
Although the initial sales were underwhelming, it spread nationwide through word of mouth on radio and beyond.
With its Hawaiian vibe and a melody-rich rap by Micro and Shen that feels like riding a wave, it’s such a pleasant number.
I’m sure many people had memories from the heart of their school days come rushing back, or used this song to get pumped up.
The summers spent with an open, liberated feeling while listening to “My Way” were truly hot!
Someone more important than a friendGoriki Ayame
This is Ayame Gouriki’s captivating debut work, portraying a deep bond that goes beyond friendship.
When you realize that someone is irreplaceable to you, the relationship begins to mean more than just friends.
Like magic, the moments when your bond warms your heart are expressed with a bright, pop melody.
Released in July 2013, the song was also featured in Yamazaki Baking’s “Lunch Pack” commercial, earning broad support across generations.
When you’re struggling with a relationship with someone important, listening to this song will help you reaffirm the depth and value of that bond.
Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze
It’s a pure love song, just as the title suggests, that sings about life-sized feelings for someone special.
It’s a smash hit by the music group Shonan no Kaze, released in 2006 as their fifth single.
Many listeners resonated with the lyrics, which candidly express how the singer fell in love, memories with that person, and their honest feelings.
When it was a hit, some people may even have borrowed the song’s courage to confess their love.
To this day, it remains a popular choice for karaoke.