Classic and popular ballad songs recommended for high school students

Blue JeansHANA

HANA / Blue Jeans -Music Video-

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.

GloriousBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Glorious -Special Movie-

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.

bowknotAimer

Aimer “Chouchou Musubi” (produced and written by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS)

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.

May it be filled with kindnessFlower

Flower “So That It Overflows With Kindness” [Movie “Evergreen Love (A Herb Book): I Picked Up a Fateful Love” Theme Song ver.]

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.

KanadeSukima Suichi

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

Released in 2004 as their second single, it was featured across many forms of media, including the film “Rough.” It stayed on the Oricon charts for 38 consecutive weeks, becoming a significant long-running hit.

Thanks to its high acclaim, many musicians have covered it for over a decade.

It’s a very moving song that brings listeners to tears.

Bunny GirlAKASAKI

[AKASAKI] Bunny Girl (Lyric Video)

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.

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SparkleRADWIMPS

Sparkle / RADWIMPS (Cover)

It’s a 2016 track by RADWIMPS, a four-member rock band led by Yojiro Noda.

It became popular for being featured in the blockbuster film “Your Name.” Listening to it together with the movie is so moving it gives you goosebumps.