[For High School Students] A Collection of Motivational Songs to Boost Study Focus

After the rainWANIMA

Ameagari

If you want to snap into focus mode in a short time, this track—now a staple at WANIMA’s live shows—is perfect.

It’s included on their first mini-album, “Can Not Behaved!!,” released in October 2014, and it’s packed with the band’s early, raw energy.

The lyrics, which acknowledge anxiety and doubt while ultimately urging you to look ahead and move forward, will surely bolster your nerves before an exam.

Even when you’re down after a poor mock test result, listening to this song will help you reset—like your field of vision suddenly opening up.

migratory bird[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

A signature number by [Alexandros], with a driving melody and piercing high-register vocals that stir the listener’s heart.

It was included on a single released in March 2015 and is also known as the theme song for the film “Ake Garasu (Akegarasu).” The lyrics, which depict striving single-mindedly toward dreams and goals like a bird spreading its wings and soaring into the sky, really resonate.

When your mock exam results aren’t great or you feel anxious because you can’t see what lies ahead, the song’s positive energy will give you a push forward.

It’s a track I want exam takers to keep as a good-luck charm—something to listen to when you want to believe in yourself and sprint all the way to the finish.

festivalsumika

sumika / Festival [Music Video] - Morinaga Confectionery “In Jelly for Exams 2021” CM Song

Sumika is a rock band known for their bright, pop-infused, refreshing sound.

This track carries a powerful message that turns even anxiety and impatience into forward-driving energy, giving you the courage to take on challenges with the mindset that “nerves are proof you’re serious.” Included on the album AMUSIC released in March 2021, it was also featured in Morinaga’s “Juken ni in Jelly 2021” commercial.

The vibrant performance gives a strong push to anyone working hard.

It’s a song for exam-takers—one that inspires belief in your efforts and the power to step into a new landscape.

every dayYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Mainichi (Every Day)

Even the most boring routine work instantly feels like a dance floor with this song! It’s a track with a magical power, released by Kenshi Yonezu in May 2024.

The bouncy beat and repeating phrases seem to turn even off days into a light, upbeat rhythm, and just listening to it lifts your spirits.

Familiar as the theme for Japan Coca-Cola’s “Georgia” commercials, this number is also included on the album LOST CORNER.

With Yaffle handling the arrangement, its danceable sound is the perfect spark when you’re stuck.

When work or studying has you bogged down, try listening to it like you’d grab a coffee for a quick reset.

Mela!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

Even when you sit down at your desk, you just can’t stay focused… this is a song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai you should listen to at times like that.

Its sprightly beat that makes you want to move and the bright sound of brass will instantly lift your sunken mood.

Cherishing the impulse of “Now’s the time!” and striving to change yourself, its positive message will surely give a powerful push to your efforts toward your goals.

It was released in April 2020 as an advance single from the album SINGALONG.

When you’re feeling sleepy or want to make a final sprint, listen to it and you’ll feel energy welling up from within.

Burn!Fuji Kaze

Fujii Kaze – MO-EH-YO (Official Video)

Singer-songwriter Kaze Fujii, who continues to captivate many with his outstanding piano playing and vocals.

Released in 2021 as a Google Pixel commercial song and included on the album “LOVE ALL SERVE ALL,” this track is a fiery pep song that lights a spark in listeners’ hearts.

Many of you may remember his performance on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its message—embracing even failures and embarrassment and urging you to move forward—will surely resonate deeply with exam-takers battling anxiety.

When your studies hit a wall or you need one last push, listening to it will fill you with energy from within.

Have a nice dayNishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'Have a nice day' MV Full

“I just can’t get out of bed in the morning…” For those sleepy mornings, this song—beloved as the theme for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi TV in 2016—gives you a boost of energy.

With lyrics full of everyday vibes that practically let you hear the alarm clock and smell the coffee, it’s something anyone can relate to! The down-to-earth message Kana Nishino delivers is packed with positive energy that nudges you to say, “Alright, let’s do our best today!” even when studying or going to school feels like a drag.

Even the hectic rush of getting ready in the morning seems like it could move along smoothly when you listen to this track.