Heartwarming songs recommended for high school students

The Final RiverCHEMISTRY

CHEMISTRY “The Final River” Official Video

This song was selected as the theme song for the film “The Elephant’s Back.” It powerfully conveys a universal love: accepting one’s fate and striving to live strongly, yet feeling a deep ache when thinking of the beloved family one must leave behind—all expressed through beautiful vocals and harmonies.

I want to take only you away just like this.DEEN

DEEN 'I Want to Steal You Away Just Like This (DEEN The Best DX)' Music Video

A heartrending love song cherished across generations.

It’s a love I thought I’d forgotten, yet the loneliness rises vividly within me.

There aren’t many lyrics that capture the nature of love as powerfully as this universal expression of longing.

ANTHEMNEWS

ANTHEM

It was the theme song for the CWC 2015 (Club World Cup) held in December 2015.

The meaning of ANTHEM seems to include things like “national anthem,” “hymn,” and “fight song.” Seeing NEWS, who have been through a lot, sing it with such power feels inspiring and gives me courage.

Daphne (winter daphne)DISH//

DISH// – Sweet Daphne [Official Video]

This song by DISH// features gentle vocals and a warm melody that deeply resonate.

Combining a march-inspired arrangement with choral elements, it centers on the feelings of exam-takers and gratitude toward family.

Released in November 2021, it was chosen as the theme song for the NTV drama “The Winner in February: The Classroom of Guaranteed Success.” Co-written by Takumi Kitamura and Hattori from Macaroni Empitsu, the track carries a message to encourage students preparing for exams.

It’s a song we hope will be heard not only by those studying hard every day, but by anyone facing challenges or difficulties—a true anthem of support.

The word “thank you” echoes beautifully throughout this wonderful piece.

We areONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK: We Are [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

An empowering anthem that stands by the anxieties and struggles of young people, powerfully singing the importance of living true to yourself! Taka from ONE OK ROCK delivers an emotionally rich vocal performance, and the fusion with the emotive melody creates a soul-stirring sound that leaves a lasting impression.

Featured on the album “Ambitions” and released in January 2017, this track was chosen as NHK’s soccer theme song and deeply moved many viewers.

It’s a warm song that supports and encourages not only students in the midst of their youth, but also those who feel unable to face societal pressures and surrounding prejudice, and those on the verge of losing their sense of self.

A Song for a FriendSonar Pocket

Sonar Pocket 'A Song for a Friend' [MV Short]

This pop tune by Sonar Pocket vividly sings about memories from a youth spent with cherished friends.

Nostalgic scenes from student life are depicted with rich emotion, and the unshakable bond with friends who have gone their separate ways is strikingly portrayed.

Released in February 2009, the song is also included on the album “Sonapokeism ①: The Shape of Happiness,” and is often performed at graduation ceremonies and farewell parties.

It’s a heartwarming piece meant to be listened to while thinking of friends who now live far away.

Dear Sir or Madam, on this day when cherry blossoms fluttermafumafu

[MV] Dear Sir/Madam, On This Day When Cherry Blossoms Flutter Down / Mafumafu [Shonen Janmaga Gakuen]

A heartwarming coming-of-age story by Mafumafu that vividly captures the emotion of spring as cherry blossoms dance in the air.

The song’s structure is striking, beginning with gentle piano melodies and unfolding into an exhilarating, fast-paced rhythm.

It delicately weaves universal themes of school-day memories, friendship, and farewells, highlighted by a warm vocal delivery that feels close to the listener’s heart.

Included on the album “Kagurairo Artifact,” released in October 2019, it was also used as the theme song for the website Shonen Janmaga Gakuen.

It’s a track to listen to when you want to feel the tender memories of student days, the arrival of spring, or when you’re going through a parting from someone important.