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

Finesse feat. Cardi B(Remix)Bruno Mars71rank/position

Bruno Mars – Finesse (Remix) (feat. Cardi B) (Official Music Video)

Bruno Mars is a singer-songwriter whose sophisticated musicality has earned him high praise from around the world.

In the early stages of his career he focused on pop, then shifted mainly to rock ’n’ roll in the mid-period, and now he’s fully embraced disco and soul music.

His “Finesse feat.

Cardi B (Remix)” is polished into a stylish R&B track that showcases this side of his sound.

While it’s not particularly fast in tempo, the groove is excellent, making it a track I’d recommend for dance routines.

Like I’m Gonna Lose You ft. John LegendMeghan Trainor72rank/position

Meghan Trainor – Like I’m Gonna Lose You (Official Video) ft. John Legend

It’s a popular love song by American singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor.

Since she had a dream where her partner disappeared, she resolves to cherish them more from now on—that seems to be the gist.

It’s a song that can be taken as both cute and a bittersweet love ballad.

I Gotta FeelingThe Black Eyed Peas73rank/position

The Black Eyed Peas – I Gotta Feeling (Official Music Video)

Celebrated around the world as an essential anthem for parties and events, this is one of the Black Eyed Peas’ signature works.

Released in June 2009 by the Los Angeles–based group, the track became a massive hit with its upbeat, optimistic message and dance-inducing beat, spending 14 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Produced with David Guetta, its innovative sound—seamlessly fusing EDM and pop—also drew major attention.

Dropped amid a severe economic crisis, it was embraced as a song of encouragement that gave people hope and energy, and it remains an ideal choice for group performances at events like school sports days and athletic festivals.

GIRL LIKE MEBlack Eyed Peas, Shakira74rank/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!

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire75rank/position

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

When it comes to top artists in 1970s Black music and disco sound, it has to be Earth, Wind & Fire.

For those of us who are older, their irresistibly danceable songs bring back such fond memories, and I can’t help but feel delighted—but I also want younger generations to experience this ultimate form of Black music.

High HopesPanic! At The Disco76rank/position

Panic! At The Disco – High Hopes (Official Video)

Here’s a striking track with an impressive melody and a stunning male high-tone voice: “High Hopes.” It’s a song released in 2018 by Panic! At The Disco, the project led by vocalist Brendon Urie.

The song carries the message that you should always keep your hopes high, no matter what.

It’s a perfect anthem to encourage those pursuing their dreams and goals—and an ideal pick to cheer on kids working hard in sports!

We Are Never Ever Getting Back TogetherTaylor Swift77rank/position

Taylor Swift – We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together

This song by the global songstress Taylor was also the theme song for Terrace House.

It’s about a boyfriend who’s always quick to break up.

She’s fed up with him and sings about her resolve to never get back together.

College students might relate to it…