Heartwarming songs recommended for high school students

Critical HitRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – A Masterstroke [Official Music Video]

This is a rock anthem packed with a grand message that resonates with young people, included by RADWIMPS in their December 2013 album “X to O to Tsumi to.” Riding on powerful guitar riffs and driving drum rhythms, it portrays the struggles and growth of a protagonist trying to find their own path in the midst of youth.

Its uncompromising alternative sound is brimming with energy, making it perfect for opening or closing ceremonies at school sports days.

The music video was filmed at Ageo Municipal Baseball Stadium in Saitama Prefecture and features a massive scale with 1,500 extras.

This work strongly supports students in the thick of their youth and those standing at life’s crossroads.

It’s the perfect song when you need the courage to take a new step forward.

FIND YOUberii guddoman

“SAGA Local Hometown Youth Song” ‘FIND YOU’

This is an uplifting anthem created from youth stories collected from over 20,000 high school students in Saga.

Set against the rich nature of their hometowns, it celebrates the beauty of discovering one’s own dreams and future.

Berry Goodman’s bright, parade-like sound will gently give listeners a push forward.

The song is included on the album “Thank You,” releasing in February 2025.

In collaboration with KBC Kyushu Asahi Broadcasting’s “High Schoolers’ Time,” the music video features more than 190 students from 20 schools.

If you’re facing a new challenge or need a little courage, listening to this track will surely lift your spirits.

It’s also lovely to listen while thinking of your own hometown.

Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)Yonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)

This is an evocative duet that overlays memories of the past with present emotions shared with a dear friend.

Kenshi Yonezu and Masaki Suda blend their voices to portray the innocence of a youth that remains unforgettable even in adulthood, as well as the way relationships change amid days of missing each other.

Included on the October 2017 album “BOOTLEG,” the song carries a wish to remain unchanged even while being swept up in daily life.

It’s truly a perfect track for school and cultural festivals, where friendship and bonds are key themes.

StargazeSixTONES

SixTONES – Stargaze [YouTube ver.]

This is a song by SixTONES that drew attention even before its release because it was written specifically for them by Yojiro Noda of RADWIMPS.

Released in 2025, the group’s 10th anniversary year, the track was chosen as the support song for Nippon TV’s 45th National High School Quiz Championship.

Its poetic lyrics and dramatic sound come together to make you feel as if you’re watching a scene from a coming-of-age film.

You can almost see friends joining hands and facing hardships head-on with hope in their hearts.

This piece gives a powerful push to anyone striving toward a goal, so it’s also recommended listening before an important exam or game.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE has delivered a gem of a song that beautifully captures both the brilliance and the fragility of youth.

It delicately portrays the feelings of trying to embrace everyday anxieties, inner conflicts, and the pains of growth as cherished memories.

The song was also chosen as the opening theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery” and won the 66th Japan Record Awards in December 2024, marking an unprecedented achievement of back-to-back wins for the band.

This heartwarming track offers empathy and encouragement to middle school students grappling with the uniquely turbulent emotions of adolescence and feelings of self-doubt.

It will surely stay close to your heart and give you the courage to look ahead.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW / Yuzuru Hanyu Short Program ver.

This is a powerful track that Kenshi Yonezu poured his heart and soul into, created as the opening theme for an anime centered on figure skating.

Depicting a story of challenge and growth, the work captures the passion of those who push themselves in the world of sports through its strong melody and profound lyrics.

Released in January 2025, it was written specifically as the theme song for the anime “Medalist,” and it’s memorable that Yonezu, a huge fan of the original manga, personally offered to create it.

The song was also performed on the opening day of the nationwide tour “Kenshi Yonezu 2025 TOUR / JUNK,” captivating the audience.

It’s highly recommended for anyone striving toward the dreams and goals of their youth, making it a perfect choice to boost motivation during morning commutes to school or before club activities.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

A masterful song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that captivates with its grand rock ballad sound and heartfelt lyrics.

It gently asks what it means to live true to yourself, and how your own existence becomes visible through differences with others.

Its warm perspective resonates deeply, standing by those who, despite anxiety and loneliness, strive to move forward step by step.

Released in January 2019, it stirred the hearts of many as the support song for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

From November 2022, an orchestral arrangement was also featured in Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s CalorieMate “Support for Exam Takers” commercial series, showcasing a new charm.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you stand at a crossroads in life, when you feel you might lose your way, or when you want to encourage someone dear to you.