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

Back in BlackAC/DC57rank/position

AC/DC – Back In Black (Official 4K Video)

AC/DC is a high-pitched, shout-style band.

If I had to explain it in one phrase to someone who doesn’t know the band name, I’d say it’s the kind of music you often hear on “Soramimi Hour.” There might even be some lyrics that sound like funny mishearings somewhere in their songs.

CAN’T HOLD US FEAT. RAY DALTONMacklemore & Ryan Lewis58rank/position

MACKLEMORE & RYAN LEWIS – CAN’T HOLD US FEAT. RAY DALTON (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

This track grabs your heart with powerful vocals and an energetic beat.

Hailing from Seattle, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis boldly sing about their convictions, passion, and pride as independent artists.

It’s infused with their desire for creative freedom without relying on major labels and a deep love for their hometown, conveying a relentless will to push beyond limits.

The song reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100 in 2013 and held the top spot for five consecutive weeks.

It was also featured in a UK Miller beer commercial and the trailer for the film “Jobs.” Perfect for boosting motivation before training or exercise, it’s a song that strongly propels anyone striving toward their dreams.

Eye Of The TigerSurvivor59rank/position

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)

Eye of the Tiger by the American rock band Survivor.

The guitar riff that goes “ja, jaa-ja-ja!” is incredibly striking.

The drums feel great too, and as you listen, your body naturally starts to move.

It’s still used as background music on TV and the like, so if you play it at a school sports day, there will probably be people who think, “I’ve heard this song before,” and get excited.

In particular, since it was the theme song for the movie Rocky III, it might sound especially nostalgic to parents’ generation!

Into YouAriana Grande60rank/position

Ariana Grande – Into You (Official Video)

A dance-pop track released in 2016 by American singer Ariana Grande.

It became a hit worldwide and was certified platinum in seven countries.

The desert-set music video was directed by Hannah Lux Davis.

Black MagicLittle Mix61rank/position

Little Mix – Black Magic (Official Video)

A dance-pop track released in 2015 by the British girl group Little Mix.

The song is about seducing men.

In the music video, the members play teenagers taking revenge on bullies, inspired by films such as The Craft.

FlowersMiley Cyrus62rank/position

Miley Cyrus – Flowers (Official Video)

American songstress Miley Cyrus rose to fame in the 2000s through Disney Channel’s hit series Hannah Montana and has continued to evolve as an artist, exploring a wide range of genres including pop, rock, R&B, and country.

Flowers, which she released in January 2023 as the lead single, is a precursor to her eighth album, Endless Summer Vacation.

It’s a moving message song about the importance of self-love, written after experiencing heartbreak and nearly losing herself, and then overcoming that period.

As one of the biggest international hits of 2023, your students have likely heard it somewhere.

Miley’s powerful vocals, memorable melody, and disco-tinged pop sound are sure to create maximum excitement at key moments in events like sports festivals and school field days.

ButterBTS63rank/position

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘Butter’ Official MV

An upbeat track that blends edgier pop with dance sounds—perfect for summertime hype.

Delivered entirely in English by the global Korean group BTS in May 2021, it features a lively beat inspired by 1980s and 1990s disco music.

With its dynamic melody and the sharp dance performance of the seven members, it topped the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100 chart for eight consecutive weeks.

It’s a great choice for opening ceremonies at school sports festivals, athletic events, or dance performances, and it also creates a strong sense of unity as background music.

An undeniable crowd-pleaser for sports settings and any scene where you want to get a big group pumped up.