[University Students] Popular Western Music Rankings [By Generation]

STAYThe Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber64rank/position

The Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber – STAY (Official Video)

Released in 2021, “Stay” became a worldwide hit.

It’s a track by Australian rapper The Kid Laroi featuring Justin Bieber.

With its clear, airy sound and steady beat, the arrangement has a driving feel.

The call-and-response section that corresponds to the pre-chorus is a part that even those who can’t sing in English can join in on.

It’s perfect for sports days where people of all ages gather.

A video of Chocolate Planet’s Matsuo dancing to this song also went viral.

Because of that, even people who don’t usually listen to Western music have likely heard this song at least once.

2002Anne-Marie65rank/position

Anne-Marie – 2002 [Official Video]

Anne-Marie’s “2002,” released in 2018, is a track that won the Brit Award for British Single of the Year.

Its lyrics, which vividly portray childhood infatuation, have been highly praised.

It’s an extremely cute song.

Because both the melody and the lyrics are charming and sweet, it probably isn’t suited to competitive-style events.

With its easy-to-follow rhythm, it’s recommended as a theme for dance categories.

Be sure to check it out, including the Japanese translation!

One Kiss (with Dua Lipa)Calvin Harris66rank/position

Calvin Harris, Dua Lipa – One Kiss (Official Video)

Since the album released in 2017, a shift to that ’90s middle-school sound has earned high praise even from listeners outside the EDM crowd.

It’s a collaboration between hit-making Scottish producer Calvin Harris and London singer Dua Lipa—a summery track that brings back memories of summer.

Be sure to check it out.

Firestone ft. Conrad SewellKygo67rank/position

Kygo – Firestone ft. Conrad Sewell (Official Video)

It was a hot topic at the Rio Olympics too.

This track by Kygo, a popular DJ in tropical EDM, sounds like a hot and passionate love song just from the title.

It may be a love song, but it’s a tune you can dance to without thinking about anything.

Blinding LightsThe Weeknd68rank/position

The Weeknd – Blinding Lights (Official Video)

Blinding Lights is notable for its sound that blends a near-futuristic vibe with retro flair.

It’s a track released in 2019 by The Weeknd, a leading figure steering the next generation of R&B.

Right after its release, synth-pop—a genre that was a massive hit in the 1980s—became a trend.

Because of that, the song is regarded as one of the emblematic tracks of the revival boom.

With the steady drums and bass characteristic of synth-pop, it’s a tune that really gets you moving.

The NightsAvicii69rank/position

Avicii – The Nights

This track blends powerful guitar riffs with dynamic electro-house sounds, brimming with forward-looking energy.

Created by Swedish artist Avicii, it appears on the EP “The Days / Nights EP,” released in December 2014, and carries a message about living life to the fullest.

American singer-songwriter Nicholas Furlong’s commanding vocals add even more appeal.

Featured on the soundtrack of the popular soccer video game FIFA 15, it captured the hearts of players around the world.

It’s a perfect song for school sports days and dance performances, and its exhilarating sound is sure to energize the entire venue.

Pump ItThe Black Eyed Peas70rank/position

The Black Eyed Peas – Pump It (Official Music Video)

This is a signature track by the Black Eyed Peas, notable for its grand sound that samples the surf rock classic “Misirlou.” Its energetic guitar riff, heavy beats, and lyrics that express a full-bodied passion for music blend perfectly, creating an irresistible pull for listeners.

Released in May 2005 as a track on the album Monkey Business, it achieved international success, reaching the top 10 in 13 countries worldwide.

It was also featured on the soundtracks of the films Little Man and Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties, and its overwhelming presence has made it a favorite across various media.

It’s also ideal as background music for school sports days or athletic events, making it a perfect choice to boost participants’ motivation and enhance the sense of unity at the venue.