Moving songs recommended for high school students: classic and popular Japanese hits

Love and romanceNovelbright

Novelbright – Love and Romance [Official Music Video]

Novelbright’s heartwarming love song is attracting attention.

With lyrics overflowing with feelings for a lover and a refreshing melody, it’s a captivating track that resonates with listeners.

Released digitally in April 2022, it was later included on the album “Assort.” Centered on pop rock, the song is notable for its clear, expansive vocals.

It carefully depicts the deep affection one feels for a partner in everyday life and the inner changes brought about by their presence.

It’s a song that lifts your spirits—even on a dreary Monday, just thinking of your loved one makes your heart leap—and fills you with a positive outlook.

It’s moving in the way it celebrates the feeling of being in love.

Song SevenRADWIMPS

Nanoka

RADWIMPS, who continue to captivate countless listeners with their unique worldview.

Featured on their 2009 masterpiece Altcolony no Teiri, this song is especially striking for its structure, opening with a grand, gospel-like chorus.

Despite its six-and-a-half-minute length, the dramatic arc—from a quiet, storytelling tone to a chorus that erupts with emotion—never fails to stir the heart with each listen.

Lyrics by Yojiro Noda that affirm fate and express love for family—like “Oton to Okan” (Dad and Mom)—are surely etched deeply into the hearts of many who spent their youth with this music.

It’s a number that creates moving, unifying moments across entire venues at live shows, so give it a listen on a night when you want to forget the bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in music.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN

GReeeeN – Michi (Road/Path)

A classic GReeeeN song to listen to when you hit a wall with daily studies or club activities and feel like giving up.

Released in January 2007, it was their memorable debut single and was featured widely in the media, including as the opening theme for CDTV.

The lyrics convey a message of believing in yourself and moving forward no matter the difficulties, offering comfort and courage to listeners.

It’s loved by top athletes as well—pitcher Yu Darvish has said it supported him.

In 2017, it was used in a SUBARU commercial, drawing renewed attention a decade after its release.

When you feel uncertain about the path you’ve chosen, this is a cheer song that gently nudges you forward.

After-schoolDaisycall

After School / Daisycall (Official Music Video)

This song captures the bittersweetness of youth and the emotions of love.

Featured on Daisycall’s first EP, “After School,” it was released in April 2023.

Its driving melody and energetic, sing-along-ready lyrics leave a strong impression.

The words evoke memories of school days and a nostalgia for lost time, resonating with many listeners.

It’s a popular track at live shows for the way it brings performers and audience together, and it’s been a hot topic among fans of youth punk.

Highly recommended for high school students and anyone who feels nostalgic about their student days.

Dear, boyHump Back

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

This is one of Hump Back’s signature songs, expressing everyday joys and sorrows with straightforward lyrics and a catchy melody.

As an anthem for people chasing their dreams, it’s beloved by many fans.

Released in June 2018, the track was used as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02” and as a commercial song for Shinken Seminar’s High School Course.

The lyrics, said to be written with thoughts of the songwriter’s high school bandmates, portray the conflicts and hopes of youth.

It’s a must-listen for high school students striving toward their dreams and young people who feel uncertain about the future.

Its passionate spirit is truly moving.

Welcome back.Tani Yuuki

Welcome Back – Tani Yuuki [MV]

This song portrays feelings for a cherished person far away.

Tani Yuuki’s delicate vocals gently wrap the aching tenderness.

Included on the album “Memories,” it was released digitally in November 2022.

The music video tells a story of a married couple and their child through puppet animation, featuring striking visuals such as a giant tree stump and a carved wooden robot.

It carries a powerful message that hearts remain connected even when apart, making it a recommended track for anyone longing to reunite with someone dear.

Its warmth of affection is truly moving.

Love SongUru

[Official] Uru “Love Song” — Theme song for Fuji TV’s Thursday drama series “My Fair Prince”

This is a song by Uru, known for her crystal-clear vocals.

It was released in August 2021 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Oshi no Oujisama.” Written and composed by Uru herself, the piece depicts the joys of love and the importance of everyday life, while also serving as an anthem that cheers on those who are doing their best.

Though it’s a medium-tempo love song, it marks a new frontier that blends gentleness with strength.

It carries a message about realizing the value of meeting someone special and the presence of companions while chasing your dreams, and it resonates with those who find it hard to be honest about the person they hold in their hearts.

It’s a song we especially recommend to high school students in the midst of their youth.