Classic and popular ballad songs recommended for high school students
The great thing about ballad songs is that you can really take in the emotions and messages in the lyrics and enjoy them while relating them to your own experiences.
I’ve picked out some ballad songs I’d recommend to high school students!
You might just discover a new favorite ballad.
Classic and popular ballad songs recommended for high school students (1–10)
Class journalNEW!murasaki ima
Set in the universal setting of schools and classrooms, this moving number portrays the imperfections and kindness of friends.
Its theme, gently illuminating those who carry wounds, leaves a strong impression.
A grand ballad highlighted by gospel and choral elements, it shines with a quiet, fragile melody line and dramatic development.
Released in January 2024, it was chosen as the ending theme for the TV anime Blue Exorcist: The Blue Night Saga – The Shimane Illuminati Arc.
It is also included on the album eMulsion, released in March 2025.
Highly recommended for those who want to feel the urgency of adolescence or who are carrying unbearable emotions.
Blue JeansHANA
It’s a mid-tempo ballad that sings of the bittersweetness of being in love and the down-to-earth longing to see the person you like.
The lyrics cleverly and stylishly overlay complicated feelings of love onto worn-in jeans and sneakers.
It portrays the emotions of nights when you feel insecure and lack confidence—something many high school students will surely relate to.
The song is by HANA, a girl group born from an audition program, and it was released as their second single in July 2025.
Their debut track, ROSE, even hit No.
1 on the Billboard JAPAN HOT 100, showing no signs of their momentum slowing down.
This release also features a collaboration with the casual brand DIESEL, and its visuals drew considerable attention.
It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to on your way to school or on nights when you’re feeling a bit sentimental.
May it be filled with kindnessFlower
This is a cover song by Flower released in 2016.
They’re a group that’s especially popular among high school students.
The poignant melody and lyrics are striking, and I think many people feel a sense of warmth when they listen to this song.
It’s one of those tracks you find yourself wanting to listen to on a whim.
Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi
This is Aoi Teshima’s fifth single, released in 2016.
It was used as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Someday, I Will Remember This Love and Surely Cry.” Many people are likely soothed by Teshima’s distinctive singing voice.
It’s a heartwarming song.
bowknotAimer
This is Aimer’s 11th single, released in 2016.
Many people are likely captivated by Aimer’s clear, transparent vocals.
It’s a heartrending ballad that warms your heart just by listening.
Many listeners may also find her distinctive voice soothing.
Bunny GirlAKASAKI
AKASAKI’s hit song “Bunny Girl.” Thanks to its explosive popularity on TikTok and Instagram, I think any high school student would know it.
While the track is great for hyping up a crowd, it’s also exceptionally easy to sing.
The main reason is its vocal range: mid1 C to mid2 E.
For a recent Japanese pop song, that’s remarkably narrow, making key adjustments easy and allowing anyone—regardless of gender—to sing it.
Definitely consider adding it to your repertoire.
GloriousBE:FIRST
A ballad with a gently stirring melody and a warm message that affirms even the effort itself—the very “footsteps” you leave behind.
Released for streaming in November 2023, it was written as the support song for the 102nd All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.
Also included on the album “2:BE,” it has become beloved not only by fans but by many listeners.
The lyrics honor both winners and those who fall short, carrying a quiet strength that gives listeners a gentle push forward.
It’s a song especially worth hearing for anyone who has been running full-tilt—through club activities, exam prep, and more.