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

Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)Shakira1rank/position

Shakira – Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Song)

Unfolding with dynamic energy, this pop number overflows with African spirit atop a powerful, groovy rhythm.

The celebratory sound woven by Colombia’s Shakira and South African band Freshlyground is sure to be the ultimate BGM to fire up any sports day.

Released in May 2010, the track gained worldwide popularity as the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, selling over 15 million copies globally.

It topped the charts in 15 countries and has amassed over 4 billion views on YouTube.

Blending a feverish, danceable beat with the spirit of football, this song is a perfect match for sporting events—powerfully propelling athletes toward victory and uniting the entire venue in a shared sense of excitement.

Despacito ft. Daddy YankeeLuis Fonsi2rank/position

Luis Fonsi – Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee

Luis Fonsi’s classic “Despacito ft.

Daddy Yankee,” with an unforgettable intro that begins with a rich, soulful flamenco guitar tone.

The song was released in 2017.

Around the same time, the music video was uploaded to YouTube, and in just eight months it surpassed approximately 3.

8 billion views.

It became explosively popular.

The addition of hip-hop elements to a reggae foundation gives it an especially catchy, danceable groove!

Wake Me UpAvicii3rank/position

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Video)

Avicii, who came from Sweden, was one of the key figures who elevated EDM from a European genre to a globally popular style of music.

“Wake Me Up” is a song that expresses the feelings of a protagonist who didn’t realize they were lost in life and in how they were living, and who, wanting to avert their eyes from that sense of emptiness, wishes to be awakened once everything is over.

While following the EDM style of ramping up the tempo before the chorus and exploding at the chorus, the track also carries a sense of folk-like roots.

Considering the climactic lift in the chorus, I think it matches well with events like cavalry battles, where team strength determines victory or defeat!

We Will Rock YouQueen4rank/position

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

With its powerful handclaps and stomping rhythm, this staple track energizes sports festivals and dance events.

Released in October 1977 by the British rock band Queen from the album “News of the World,” the song celebrates the determination to overcome setbacks and hardships in pursuit of victory.

As a rousing anthem symbolizing unity and fighting spirit, it continues to be embraced across sports scenes worldwide.

The foot stomps and handclaps recorded by the band members themselves create a sense of togetherness that draws in the audience, and in 2002 it was also adopted as the title song for the musical “We Will Rock You.” It’s the perfect choice for those who want to bring an entire venue together during school sports days or dance performances.

Love AgainDua Lipa5rank/position

Dua Lipa – Love Again (Official Music Video)

Dua Lipa, a UK pop icon with multiple Grammy Awards and worldwide recognition, released “Love Again” in 2021—a high-energy track that can get the whole school hyped.

The music video is captivating, featuring her stylishly dancing as a cowgirl.

Alongside her rhythmic flow, you’ll sense a nostalgic disco-like vibe.

It’s also recommended for those who enjoy funky, glamorous arrangements.

It’s a pop song that will excite not only students but the audience as well, so be sure to check it out.

DALLA DALLAITZY6rank/position

ITZY “달라달라(DALLA DALLA)” M/V @ITZY

ITZY, who debuted in 2019 as TWICE’s junior group.

This is their debut song, “DALLA DALLA.” It features a bouncy bassline, a cool verse section, and a chorus that bursts with brightness.

There’s also a part reminiscent of cheerleading that adds spice to the track.

Packed with many elements, this high-energy song makes for a seriously cool dance performance!

SacrificeBebe Rexha7rank/position

Bebe Rexha – Sacrifice [Official Music Video]

A true dance music classic, “Sacrifice.” This track was released in 2021 by American singer-songwriter Bebe Rexha and is included on the album “Better Mistakes,” released the same year.

Though it runs only about two and a half minutes, its catchy melody, shimmering piano sounds, and driving drum beat make for an undeniably cool vibe from start to finish.

Be sure to check it out.