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)
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!
[A Must-See for People in Their 20s] A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days (51–60)
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.
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.
Heavy rotationAKB48
Countless people have been encouraged by this high-energy song! It’s a hit by the popular idol group AKB48, released in 2010 as their 17th single.
The refreshing, fast-paced rock sound really shines with the members’ cute vocals! The lyrics, which compare the feeling of being in love to music, are adorable too.
I bet there are people who were inspired by this song and the group to pursue an idol career.
Give it a listen while reminiscing about the “Heavy Rotation” craze of the time!
MisterKARA
You might find yourself humming along as soon as the intro starts! This smash hit by the Korea-born idol group KARA was released in 2010 as their debut single in Japan.
Its catchy melody and that distinctive dance became a huge topic back then.
The lyrics portray a passionate, straightforward view of love in a very cute way.
It’s sure to be a hit if you pick it at karaoke with people from the same generation.
Definitely give it a try at a reunion or similar get-together!
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.
