Ranking of Western Music Artists Popular Among University Students [2025]

Kill This LoveBLACKPINK22rank/position

BLACKPINK – ‘Kill This Love’ M/V

BLACKPINK has become popular worldwide as an idol group originating from K-pop.

“Kill This Love” is one of their signature songs.

Many middle and high school students who like K-pop may be familiar with it.

With its cool, dark-themed dance music style, it’s recommended as background music for dance performances or as an entrance song.

HaloBeyoncé23rank/position

Beyoncé – Halo

This is a 2008 song by the globally beloved diva, Beyoncé.

Has there ever been a love song this beautiful and divine? You’ll be overwhelmed by the lyrics that feel bathed in light, the majestic melody, and her powerful vocals.

bad guyBillie Eilish24rank/position

Billie Eilish – bad guy

Billie Eilish, the breakout new artist everyone’s talking about.

Her popularity is soaring in Japan as well! This is her signature song, “bad guy.” Since it was used as the theme song for the TV drama “Shiro demo Kuro demo nai Sekai de, Panda wa Warau” (The World of Neither White Nor Black, the Panda Laughs), many people have probably heard it even if they don’t know her.

The catchy bassline and whispery vocals give it a very cool vibe, yet there’s something a bit comical about it too.

It’s a buzzworthy track, so you can’t go wrong adding it to your playlist!

GIRL LIKE MEBlack Eyed Peas, Shakira25rank/position

Black Eyed Peas, Shakira – GIRL LIKE ME (Official Music Video)

Shakira, a popular artist from Colombia, is also well-loved in Japan.

Here’s a collaboration between her and the internationally popular group Black Eyed Peas: “GIRL LIKE ME.” While the track uses a modern sound, it’s crafted with a distinctive vibe that evokes the 1980s.

It might not be suitable for sprinting or relay races, but I think it’s perfect for quirky events like obstacle courses or scavenger hunts!

It’s My LifeBon Jovi26rank/position

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

This is a signature work by the American rock band Bon Jovi, delivering a powerful message and a high-octane rock sound that champions the importance of staying true to yourself.

The song, which boldly sings about self-assertion and taking the helm of your own life, was included on the album Crush released in May 2000 and won strong support from younger listeners.

Its uplifting lyrics and catchy melody line are striking, and the exhilarating sound—like speeding down a highway—stirs the soul.

A must-have track for energizing dance scenes, it’s perfect as BGM for school sports days and athletic festivals.

A classic that gives you the courage and vitality to stand tall and follow your own path, it surpassed 1 billion views on its music video in July 2021.

This Is What You Came For ft. RihannaCalvin Harris27rank/position

Calvin Harris, Rihanna – This Is What You Came For (Official Video)

This is their first song together since “We Found Love,” a massive hit by the hugely popular electronic DJ Calvin Harris and the incomparable songstress Rihanna—and this one was a big hit too.

By the way, rumor has it the song was written by Calvin Harris’s ex, Taylor Swift… or maybe not.

It’s a track with a little bit of lore behind it.

Good TimeCarly Rae Jepsen28rank/position

Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time (Official Video)

Since its release in 2012, this staple has been popular at sports days and athletic festivals across the country: Good Time, a collaboration between Carly Rae Jepsen and electropop artist Owl City.

The sparkling, effervescent synthesizer tones are perfect for the glittering, refreshing coming-of-age event that is the sports festival! The song’s theme is “having a great time.” If everyone listens to the same track and gets fired up together, you’re sure to make your sports festival an unforgettable memory for life!