A Must-See for Those in Their 20s: A Collection of Youthful Songs That Bring Back School Days

Thank youFUNKY MONKEY BABYS

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “Thank You”

This is a song by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS that expresses gratitude as straightforwardly as possible.

Its warm melody, which gently envelops the listener’s heart, is also memorable, and it continues to be loved as a track that prompts us to reflect on our feelings for those who have supported us.

Released in February 2013, the song was chosen as the theme for MBS and GAORA’s broadcast of the 85th Senbatsu High School Baseball Tournament, as well as for Nippon TV’s “Akamru! Scoop Koshien.” The music video features Sanma Akashiya, which drew significant attention.

It’s a song to play when you want to convey your gratitude to someone important or to mark a milestone in life.

migratory bird[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

Released in June 2015, many of you probably listened to this song often during your school days.

It carries a powerful message that gives listeners courage by contrasting loneliness with hope.

It has been used as a movie theme song and in commercials, and has been loved by a wide audience.

It’s also popular at events like sports days and school festivals, and it’s a hit at karaoke.

It’s recommended when you need the courage to carve out your own path or when you want to start a new challenge.

LOSERYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – LOSER

A vivid portrayal of the feelings of young people struggling with self-loathing and how to face society, this is one of Kenshi Yonezu’s signature works.

While self-deprecatingly accepting the label “loser,” the protagonist’s determination to rise from that state is deeply moving.

Released as a double A-side single in September 2016 and later included on the 2017 album BOOTLEG, the song also drew attention for its music video, in which Yonezu himself tried dancing for the first time.

In 2018, it was featured in a Honda JADE car commercial, earning widespread support across diverse audiences.

It’s a track not only for those who want to look back on their youth, but also for anyone who feels they haven’t found their place or who harbors anxiety about the future.

It’s not me unless it’s meGesu no Kiwami Otome.

Gesu no Kiwami Otome “Watashi Igai Watashi Janai no”

This is a masterpiece that brilliantly captures the subtle workings of a heart endlessly searching for what it means to be oneself.

It delicately portrays the feelings of modern people struggling with self-denial and comparisons with others, making it a song that resonates deeply with many listeners.

Released in April 2015 as Gesu no Kiwami Otome’s second single, the track captivates with its unique sound that skillfully fuses diverse genres such as funk and progressive rock.

Chosen as the theme song for Coca-Cola’s “Name Bottle Campaign” commercial and performed at the 66th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen that same year, it became a widely recognized work in society.

It’s a song I especially recommend to anyone facing themselves and trying to take a new step forward.

Baby, I love youTEE

TEE – Baby, I Love You

A warm love song by TEE that wraps up the feeling of inviting someone special with the words, “Let’s go on a trip, let’s go see the ocean.” Released in October 2010 and featured on TBS’s music program COUNT DOWN TV as well as in Aoyama Trading’s “Yofuku no Aoyama” commercials, the song gently sings of affection for a loved one over a relaxed rhythm.

The music video features model Mikiko Yano, and the visual beauty crafted by director Takahiro Miki also drew attention.

Beloved as a wedding staple, this track is one you’ll want to hear as it accompanies special moments with someone dear, and warmly resonates with those in love.

Monsterarashi

ARASHI – Monster [Official Music Video]

This is a poignant love song about a mysterious being who awakens in the darkness of night and pours out deep feelings for a beloved.

Even if memories fade or they are reborn, the unwavering resolve to keep searching for that person is strikingly portrayed, and the vow of eternal love is truly moving.

Released in May 2010 as Arashi’s 30th single, the song drew attention as the theme for the Nippon TV drama “Kaibutsu-kun,” starring Satoshi Ohno.

Blending a dark, mysterious atmosphere with pop elements, sharp choreography, and a compelling sound, it continues to enjoy strong support from a wide audience.

It’s the perfect track when you want to feel the ache of love and the constancy of devotion to someone dear.

SenbonzakuraKurousa-P

"MV" Senbonzakura WhiteFlame feat. Hatsune Miku

This work, notable for its Japanese-style rock sound and a world that evokes the Taisho Romantic era, is a signature VOCALOID piece by KuroUsa-P.

Set in a time when Western and Japanese cultures fused, it skillfully depicts the contrast between technological progress and tradition, as well as the struggles people faced amid rapid social change.

Released in September 2011, the song was included on the album “1st Anniversary Album ALL THAT Senbonzakura!!,” and numerous arranged versions were produced.

In 2015, Wagakki Band’s cover was broadcast on television, and that same year Sachiko Kobayashi performed it in a special segment on NHK’s Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

With its driving melody and incorporation of traditional Japanese elements, the song continues to be cherished—especially by younger audiences—as a piece that resonates with nostalgic memories.