[Culture and School Festival Songs] A curated selection of popular and hit songs to brighten up your venues and events!

GLAMOROUS SKYNakajima Mika

GLAMOROUS SKY / Mika Nakashima

The theme song of the film “NANA,” woven from a powerful guitar sound, striking melodies, and soul-stirring lyrics.

It’s an ambitious work in which Mika Nakashima makes a bold shift from her previous ballad style to a rock-tinged approach.

Infused with a strong will to keep moving forward despite the emptiness and loneliness of everyday life, it gives listeners courage and hope.

Released in August 2005, it topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart for two consecutive weeks.

This star-studded collaboration features composition by HYDE of L’Arc〜en〜Ciel and lyrics by the original author, Ai Yazawa.

With its simple rhythms and catchy melodies, this piece is perfect for band performances at school and cultural festivals—great for practicing and enjoying with friends.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW

A youth anthem whose exhilarating melody and powerful vocals strike straight to the heart! Created at Kenshi Yonezu’s own request as the opening theme for the figure-skating anime “Medalist,” this ambitious work accompanies the story of a young man who has faced setbacks and a girl chasing her dreams.

Through the symbolic motif of “bow and arrow,” it conveys challenge, growth, and the importance of supporting one another.

Produced in January 2025, the song debuted on the first day of his nationwide tour, “Kenshi Yonezu 2025 TOUR / JUNK,” sending the venue into a frenzy.

It’s a gem of a cheer song you’ll want to hear with friends striving toward their goals—perfect for lighting up school and culture festivals.

paper airplanesuis from Yorushika × Evan Call

suis from Yorushika × Evan Call “Paper Airplane” [Theme song for the anime ‘Dragonite and the Mailman’]

This is a grand message song by Yorushika’s suis and Evan Call, where the feelings conveyed through a letter are expressed with an orchestra and a clear, translucent vocal.

Its melody gently embraces both the importance and the difficulty of delivering words to someone, resonating deeply in the heart.

Released in February 2025, it was chosen as the theme song for the anime “Dragonite and the Mail Carrier,” which premiered around the same time.

Two versions were produced— a Japanese version by Ameko Kodama and an English version by Evan Call—carrying the power and potential of words across borders.

It’s recommended as a memorable finale song for school and cultural festivals, and for anyone holding dear feelings for someone special.

Betrayal GameBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Betrayal Game -Music Video-

BE:FIRST delivers a striking dance number that deftly portrays the subtle push-and-pull between a man and a woman.

The thrilling dynamic of probing each other’s perspectives and feelings is expressed through refined vocals and dance performance.

The interplay of light-and-dark aesthetics with each member’s individuality results in an irresistibly captivating track.

Released digitally in April 2022, the song was later included on the album “BE:1” the same year.

It was also chosen as the theme song for the drama “Detective Is Way Ahead: Spring Trick-Back Festival,” showcasing a seamless harmony between the members’ expressive power and SKY-HI’s artistic vision.

With its powerful beat and danceable rhythm, it’s a perfect piece for creative choreography.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

BUMP OF CHICKEN is a four-piece rock band so influential that people say there isn’t an artist active today who hasn’t been affected by them.

Their third single, Tentai Kansoku (Stargazing), one of their signature songs, is a massive hit that has earned numerous tie-ins over the years.

With a catchy melody riding a driving beat and an introductory guitar riff said to evoke shooting stars, it has a freshness that’s hard to believe dates back to its 2001 release.

It’s a youthful rock tune that would surely turn into a mass sing-along if performed on a school festival stage.

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Hoshino Takashi

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APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars

ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – APT. (Official Music Video)

This ambitious work effectively combines the essences of pop and rock, fusing Korean youth culture with a global sound.

The distinctive vocals of Rosé and Bruno Mars blend beautifully, skillfully conveying the exhilaration of a party and the anticipation of romance.

Released in October 2024, it held the top spot on the Billboard Global 200 for nine consecutive weeks.

In November of the same year, it had its first live performance at the 2024 MAMA Awards held in Osaka, captivating the audience.

With a rhythm that makes you want to move and a chant-like chorus, this track is perfect for dance performances.

If you’re looking to create choreography with friends or seeking a song to present at an event, this is a great pick.

Liberated zoneASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION 'Liberated Zone'

This is a song that resonates with young people in the midst of their youth.

The lyrics, filled with a strong desire for freedom, and the melodious, powerful band sound will blow away the haze of everyday life.

It’s included on ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION’s single “Dororo/Kaibōku,” released in May 2019.

The track, which also became the official support song for Fujieda MYFC, is guaranteed to unite and excite the entire venue when used for a cultural festival band performance or as background music! It’s also a perfect choice to close out a live show.