Uplifting songs recommended for high school students

THE BALLERSSixTONES

SixTONES – THE BALLERS [YouTube ver.]

A high-energy cheer song that brilliantly fuses the heat of youth with the dynamism of sports! A track included on the album “GOLD,” released in January 2025, has been chosen as the official theme song for the B.League basketball 2024–25 season.

As SixTONES’ first sports song, it strikingly portrays overcoming adversity and fighting with all your might as a team toward a shared goal.

The spirit of never giving up and the hunger for victory resonate alongside an exhilarating, upbeat sound.

Also recommended as BGM for school festivals and for dance performances!

Fanfaresumika

sumika / Fanfare [Music Video]

An uplifting anthem that strikes a chord with its driving melody and bright lyrics! It’s a song that encourages a brave first step—from darkness into light, breaking out of your shell.

The invigorating sound alone gives you energy, and the storytelling—accepting your own weaknesses while stepping into a new world—is memorable.

This refreshing track, woven by sumika’s band sound, was released as a double A-side single in August 2018 and also drew attention as the opening theme for the animated film “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.” It’s perfect for school festival dances, choirs, or band performances, and is sure to gently embrace the entire venue!

Kira KiraHatsuboshi Gakuen

Kira Kira

An electronic tune that sings of the dazzling glow of youth.

Performed by Seika Shiun of Hatsuboshi Academy, the song blends a hopeful vocal with a danceable beat, resulting in a refined sound that leaves a strong impression.

It was unveiled as a surprise during the evening show of “Hatsu TOUR -First Love Performance-” held at Umeda CLUB QUATTRO in Osaka in October 2024, captivating the audience.

Lyrics by Chica; composed by Dirty Orange and MOMONADY.

Perfect for when you need a boost of energy or are ready to take a new step forward.

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

A rousing youth anthem with a lively melody and exhilarating drive! This song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai was released in July 2024 as the theme for an ABEMA dating show.

It conveys the anxieties and longings of adolescence, as well as the radiance of those who give their all, through powerful vocals and a grand arrangement featuring a 40-piece orchestra.

Included on the album “Channel U,” it has been performed on numerous music programs since its premiere at Sukima Fes.

Perfect for school festivals, class performances, and club recitals—any moment when you pour your heart into something with friends.

It’s a song that gently supports young people who are doing their utmost to seize the “now-or-never” moments.

GO FOR IT!!Nishino Kana

Kana Nishino 'GO FOR IT!! (short ver.)'

A cheerleader-like anthem that pushes you forward with positivity! Centered on the theme of “the courage to take the first step,” it gently embraces the worries and inner conflicts of a girl in love while warmly encouraging everyone striving toward their dreams.

Kana Nishino’s soft vocals pair perfectly with the energetic melody in this track, which was released in July 2012 and also featured in Yamazaki Baking’s Lunch Pack commercial.

It’s a sure-fire song to light up any moment where you want to get the crowd pumped, like school festivals or live events.

OtonokeCreepy Nuts

Creepy Nuts – Otonoke [Official MV] [Dandadan Opening]

The opening sound for the TV anime Dandadan masterfully fuses the disparate elements of music and the supernatural, crafting an epic sonic world.

With Creepy Nuts’ razor-sharp rap and singular worldview, it breathes new allure into this occult-themed story.

Written specifically for the anime, which began airing in October 2024, the track showcases the full extent of DJ Matsunaga and R-Shitei’s exceptional skills.

Also included on the album Legion, it serves as a bridge connecting the distinct cultures of hip-hop and anime.

Its mysteriously compelling melodies and powerful beats make it a recommended listen even for those who don’t usually follow anime songs.

Whether in an after-school classroom or through earbuds on the commute to school, it’s sure to capture the hearts of middle schoolers seeking a fresh musical encounter.

We againSG

We Again (Wind Ensemble ver.) – SG (Official Behind-the-Scenes Music Video)

This work by SG has gained support as an encouraging song that resonates deeply during graduations and farewells.

Its gentle melody, which accompanies young people as they overcome partings and take new steps forward, and its lyrics filled with hope for reunion are especially appealing.

Released in April 2021, it has become a popular track with a cumulative 150 million streams.

Starting in November 2024, it has also been featured in Calorie Mate’s exam-season support commercial, and a concert band version by the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Ensemble has been making waves.

It’s a heartwarming song for farewells, graduation ceremonies, and moments when you long to see someone special again.

It’s a recommended track for times when you want to cherish your memories while looking ahead and doing your best.