Recommended wake-up songs for high school students: classic and popular Japanese hits

Dear, boyHump Back

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

Hump Back’s 2018 release “Dear, Young Boy” is a track that depicts the struggles and hopes of youth.

Its driving melody and relatable lyrics encourage high school students working hard on exams and club activities.

Each time you face anxiety or setbacks, this song will help strengthen your heart.

It’s undeniably a powerful anthem you’ll want to listen to when you pause for breath.

When confronted with trials, it will surely be a song that gives you the courage to rise again.

StardomKing Gnu

King Gnu – Stardom

For high school students facing daily studies, club activities, and entrance exams, a song that can be a source of support is King Gnu’s “Stardom.” Especially at the decisive moment, this track—released with a burst of high-energy band sound and lyrics that lift your spirits—will give you a strong push forward.

In particular, when practice isn’t going well or when pre-exam anxiety creeps in, it’s sure to give you the courage to rise again.

Filled with King Gnu’s musicality that delivers passion and hope, this song will help you find the motivation to keep moving forward.

ChangeONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK: Change [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

A single by ONE OK ROCK released on February 6, 2018.

It was also used as the second commercial song for HondaJet’s “Go, Vantage Point.”, so many of you may have heard it.

The powerful, dry sound is surprisingly reminiscent of Western music.

How about adding it to your wake-up playlist?

OrangeSPYAIR

SPYAIR “Orange” Music Video (Theme Song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie)

When it comes to support songs that stay close to the hearts of high school students, this is the one.

Released by SPYAIR in February 2024, the track was also chosen as the theme song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie.

Centered on the themes of encounters, bonds, and farewells within a limited time, it sings of the courage to not say goodbye and the hope of meeting again.

The powerful vocals over an up-tempo melody convey the courage to keep moving forward.

It’s perfect for the graduation season when you part ways with dear friends, or on the eve of an entrance ceremony as you dive into a new environment.

ReCodaTRUE

Non-Credit Opening Video of the TV Anime 'Sound! Euphonium 3'

This piece, which debuted in April 2024 as the opening theme for the TV anime Sound! Euphonium 3, is an uplifting anthem that encourages listeners with a powerful message.

The lyrics, which turn everyday joys and regrets into sound and emphasize the importance of moving forward, are sure to resonate with high school students devoted to clubs or exam prep.

TRUE’s soaring vocals and synth-pop sound stoke a passion for challenge and growth.

It’s the perfect song for those who want to value their own voice and take a new first step.

Give it a listen!

no heart rate[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Heart Rate of Zero (MMV)

[Alexandros]’s “Heart-Rate Zero” is a passionately resonant song that gives high school students a powerful push forward.

Released in 2022, it also made waves as the opening theme for the anime Ao Ashi.

Its uptempo, exhilarating band sound is sure to motivate you in your studies and club activities.

For high schoolers striving in sports in particular, the driving melody will give you strength.

When you hit a wall or take on a challenge, listen to this track to steel your resolve.

Take in this rousing cheer from [Alexandros] to help you power through your high school life.

Sense of Wondersumika

sumika / “Sense of Wonder” Special Movie

When it comes to rousing anthems that set young hearts ablaze, this is the song.

Chosen as the theme for a Shinken Zemi commercial, sumika’s track deeply resonates with younger generations.

Its lyrics, which celebrate finding what you want to do and taking on challenges without fear of failure, are especially compelling.

The song is included on the EP Harmonize e.p, released in March 2020.

Sumika is a four-member band formed in 2013, performing with the aim of becoming a “dwelling place” for many people.

It’s the perfect track for high school students taking on club activities or entrance exams.

Give it a listen as a pep song that will give you the courage to believe in yourself and keep moving forward.