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] Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days (41–50)
CHE.R.RYYUI
The song I’d recommend for a scene where people in their twenties reminisce about their youth is “CHE.R.RY.” It was released in 2007 by the singer-songwriter YUI and is known as one of her signature tracks.
Some listeners may feel nostalgic about the au by KDDI “LISMO!” commercial it featured in.
The song portrays a cute crush—liking someone but not quite being able to take that first step—and evokes the sweet-and-sour feeling of youthful days.
Its lively sound features bright synth tones.
Why not give it a listen as you look back on the romances of that time?
[A Must-See for People in Their 20s] A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days (51–60)
366 daysHY
Speaking of HY, many people in their 20s probably think of the songs “366 Days” and “NAO.” “366 Days” was included on HY’s fifth album, HeartY, released in 2008.
It became a huge hit as a tear-jerking love song, and it’s a gem that has been passed down through the years, with many artists covering it.
Back when it was popular, some listeners even said the song made them cry.
Though it deals with an unfulfilled love, it’s a track that powerfully conveys the depth of feelings for the other person.
Feeling great!!mihimaru GT
Kibun Jojo ↑↑ by mihimaru GT was the kind of track that totally hyped up people in their twenties back then.
If you want a quick way to liven up the vibe or sing a crowd-pleaser at karaoke, this song is super handy! Released in 2006, it was used in commercials and all sorts of tie-ins, instantly spreading mihimaru GT’s name.
It’s a song that amps up the already sky-high energy of students even more.
Even when you’re feeling down, just listening to it will lift your spirits.
It’ll flood you with fun memories from your school days and make you think, “I wish I could go back to those times!”—no doubt about it!
Rising SunEXILE
Maybe some of you can sing and dance too? Here’s the hit number “Rising Sun” by the dance-vocal group EXILE.
It was released in 2011 as their 37th single.
It’s a support song for the reconstruction after the Great East Japan Earthquake, and its hopeful lyrics—saying that no matter what happens, the sun will rise again—are truly encouraging.
That message fits perfectly with the grand, futuristic sound.
It’s a work that gives you a push when times are tough and you’re struggling.
All or NothingB’z
Ichibu to Zenbu, released in 2009 by B’z, a rock band boasting nationwide popularity.
The song was featured in the drama “Buzzer Beat: Gakeppuchi no Hero” and has become a staple of their live shows.
Riding on a heavy rock sound, Koshi Inaba’s vocals resonate with both poignancy and power.
The lyrics portray the feeling of one’s emotions gradually becoming heavier as they spend time with someone they love.
If you’re in your twenties now, it might bring to mind relationships with someone you dated or had feelings for back then.
It’s a number that’s sure to elevate karaoke sessions or drives with friends and partners of the same generation.
Maru-Maru-Mori-Mori!Kaoru to Tomoki, tama ni Mukku.
Set to a bright, cheerful rhythm, this song carries a warm message of watching over children as they grow.
Its story-like lyrics convey the beauty of cherishing each day and holding on to one’s dreams.
Released in May 2011 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Marumo no Okite,” it was also performed at the 62nd NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen that same year, creating a buzz.
With easy-to-learn choreography and an approachable melody, it became popular at kindergarten and nursery school recitals.
The adorable performances by Mana Ashida and Fuku Suzuki—both now hugely successful actors—are truly heartwarming.
AgainWANIMA
This is a powerful message song by WANIMA that passionately sings of second chances and hope.
The protagonist’s strong will to face forward after overcoming failure and setbacks resonates with an energetic melody.
Included on the single “Good Job!!,” released in March 2019, and used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Maison de Police,” the track expresses the resolve to rise again despite carrying past pain and regret, as well as the courage to believe in oneself and move forward.
It’s a perfect song for those looking back on both the good and tough times of their school days and trying to lift their heads and keep going.