[School Festival] High schoolers hype up a live show! A collection of recommended Japanese band songs

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

When it comes to iconic Japanese rock songs of the 2000s, you can’t leave out this representative track by BUMP.

Though it was released in 2001, it continues to enjoy overwhelming support from younger generations and has become a staple for cover bands.

Because the song itself is so well-known, it’s perfect for performing in front of large audiences.

On top of that, its classic guitar-rock sound and catchy, sing-along chorus make it a sure-fire crowd-pleaser at live shows.

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Hane Keisuke

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migratory bird[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

Renamed from [Champagne] in 2014, the four-piece rock band [Alexandros] has since torn through the J-pop scene as a rock act everyone knows.

Their 10th single, Wataridori, released as a double A-side with Dracula La, became a major hit that landed numerous tie-ins, despite being their major-label debut track.

From the exhilarating opening guitar riff to the driving, fast-paced ensemble, it’s a perfect fit for a student festival that looks toward a bright future.

It’s also a simple song to perform, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleasing rock tune for any school festival stage.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Young adultmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Young Adult” MV

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Released by Macaroni Empitsu in 2019, “Young Adult” is included on the mini-album season and the full album hope.

While the rhythm is gentle, the sounds played carry a powerful force, evoking an image of complex emotions with no place to go.

Since the performance as a whole steadily marks the rhythm, it may be important to focus on a sense of groove so that the vocals stand out and the lift of the chorus is emphasized.

Precisely because the rhythm is gentle, the technique of letting each note resonate fully and then switching quickly is essential.

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kappamaki

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Effeminate; overly sentimental; being clingy/whiny (context-dependent)Gōruden Bonbā

Effeminate / Golden Bomber – Music Video

This song expresses the heartfelt feelings of a heartbroken man, set to a catchy melody.

Released by Golden Bomber in October 2009, it portrays lingering attachment to a lover, regret, and the desire to be loved once more, all through distinctive expressions.

From the moment it was released, the track drew attention on the music scene and gained support across generations as one of the band’s signature songs.

It’s perfect for livening up a school festival or karaoke! It also works great when performed with a playful, tongue-in-cheek vibe.

Walking with youNovelbright

Novelbright – Walking with you [Official Music Video]

A song by the five-piece rock band Novelbright, featured as an insert track in the ABEMA TV drama “Koisuru ❤ Shuumatsu Homestay 2020 Spring.” Included on their first mini-album “SKYWALK,” the track helped bring the band wide recognition.

With an opening that starts from the chorus and an intro featuring a memorable guitar riff based on the vocal melody, its straightforward rock arrangement seems perfect for a school festival stage.

While it has a sense of speed, the difficulty level isn’t that high, making it a recommended rock tune for high school students who are just starting a band.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Life is BeautifulASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Life Is Beautiful” Music Video

If you want to feel a sense of unity as a band with a song by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION, also known as Ajikan, the track “Life Is Beautiful,” released in February 2025, is a perfect choice.

It’s packed with the essence of expansive, bittersweet guitar rock, so we’d love to see beginner bands give it a try.

On guitar, make sure to clearly convey the interplay between the chord-driven parts and the color-adding phrases.

The relatively easy riffs and solos—by their standards—make it ideal for guitarists looking to grow.

When you actually play it, the tempo is on the faster side, so the rhythm section should steadily drill the fundamentals to reproduce Ajikan’s signature driving feel with stable performance.

silhouetteKANA-BOON

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

Speaking of KANA-BOON, they’re not only known for earning support through live performances at venues nationwide and major festivals, but also for producing numerous anime songs.

Their hallmark is approachable rhythms and catchy, singable melodies, a style that has captivated many Japanese rock fans.

In particular, this song is considered one of their signature tracks: it’s fast-paced, refreshing, and features a catchy, memorable melody.

That’s why I think it’s perfect for a high school cultural festival.

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Hane Keisuke

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