[For adults too] Youth songs that let you look back on your memories
What was your youth like?
Did you ever throw yourself into something, agonize over love, or spend tons of time with friends? I imagine each of you has spent that special time in your own unique way.
And among those reading this, some of you might even be right in the middle of your youth now!
In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of songs that sing about all kinds of “youth,” the kind that will set your heart ablaze.
It’s a playlist that feels like the very heart of young people—hot, sweet-and-sour, a little bitter, and swirling with all sorts of emotions.
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[For adults too] Youth songs that let you look back on your memories (111–120)
Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai
This is a Ryokuoushoku Shakai song that depicts the brilliance and inner struggles of youth.
Released as a digital-only single in July 2024, it was written as the theme song for ABEMA’s dating show “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita.
Summer Break 2024.” Its upbeat, powerful sound is paired with lyrics that capture young people sprinting forward with everything they’ve got.
The track conveys the importance of living to the fullest within the limited time of one’s youth, resonating with many young listeners.
The music video, featuring a grand collaboration with a 40-piece orchestra, also became a hot topic.
It’s a must-listen for anyone in the thick of their youth.
[For Adults Too] Youth Songs That Let You Look Back on Memories (121–130)
12th graderFunaki Kazuo
This is a masterpiece whose nostalgic, march-like melody and warm vocals—enveloping the bittersweet farewell of youth—resonate deeply.
It begins with the scene of the setting sun reflected on the school building, moves through images of boys and girls dancing a folk dance, and gently depicts the end of high school life with memories shared among friends before parting.
Released in June 1963 as Kazuo Funaki’s debut single, it became a massive hit, selling over one million copies within a year.
In November of the same year, a film of the same title was produced, with Funaki himself in the starring role.
It’s a song I’d recommend to those who cherish memories of their youth or feel nostalgic for their school days.
Why not give it a listen in the springtime, when you want to spend your days with a calm and peaceful heart?
Happy life175R
175R’s major-label debut, “Happy Life.” It’s a bursting-at-the-seams record that captures the very essence of classic youth punk—their raw earnestness and explosive energy.
When it dropped in 2003, there were tons of youth punk bands, and many people had it on repeat back then.
Its breakneck melodies swept away adolescent angst and anxiety, and countless listeners were hooked.
This is the kind of album I want you to revisit when you’re worn out by everyday life—let it take you back to those days, remind you of the dreams you once had, and give you courage.
That paper airplane splits the cloudy sky19
I’m sure some of you reading this right now are thinking, “Wow, this brings back so many memories!” It’s 19’s classic song ‘Ano Kami Hikōki Kumorizora Waatte,’ released in 1999.
Back in the era when ‘chaku-uta’ ringtones were all the rage, lots of people set it as their ringtone.
The lyrics, like pages from our youth, still tighten our chests with emotion even now.
The melody feels like it bottles the atmosphere of that time as-is, and the gentle sounds of the acoustic guitar and harmonica are heartwarming too.
Bubble feat.UtaEVE
This is the 11th major digital single by singer-songwriter Eve, written as the theme song for the animated film “Bubble,” which features parkour—street sport that has drawn attention in recent years.
The track features singer-songwriter Riria, who voices the film’s heroine, Uta, and it’s a refreshing number that evokes the work’s sense of speed and buoyancy.
The lyrics, brimming with the boundless possibilities of youth, may remind listeners of the passion and initial spark we tend to forget once we enter society.
It’s an exhilarating rock tune for those in the thick of their youth and for anyone who wants to relive it.
It’s nothing.RADWIMPS
This song portrays the poignant ache of love that transcends time and a fateful encounter.
It was included on RADWIMPS’ album “Your Name.” released in August 2016, and is also known as the ending theme of the blockbuster film of the same name.
The delicate expression of the emotions of youths racing against time resonates deeply with listeners.
The lyrics, which align brilliantly with the film’s worldview, showcase the exceptional talent of Yojiro Noda.
It’s a recommended track for those who want to look back on the bittersweet memories of their youth or feel the bond with someone special.
Blue Springback number
A song that portrays the struggles and hopes of youth.
It captures the unorthodox spirit of young people in words uniquely crafted by Iyori Shimizu.
Released in November 2012 as back number’s sixth single, it was also used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “High School Entrance Exam.” The lyrics depict young people “desperately living while dancing,” striking a powerful chord with listeners.
It’s a track that supports those leaping into new environments or feeling uncertain about the future, and it’s also recommended for moments when you want to look back on your youthful days.