A roundup of youth-themed songs recommended for high school students

Uniform and the SunKeyakizaka46

[Sakurazaka46 RISA WATANABE GRADUATION CONCERT] Uniform and the Sun [High Quality]

Don’t you ever suddenly feel stifled by the routine of spending every day in a prescribed uniform? Rather than just walking the path laid out by adults, you want to move forward by your own will toward a sunlit future.

This is a cheer song that carries that hidden inner cry on a refreshing sound.

Included on Keyakizaka46’s single Futari Saison, released in November 2016, this track frees the heart from a cramped everyday life.

When you’re unsure about something, you want the courage to follow your true feelings.

If you listen at such a moment, won’t your heart feel a little lighter, as if you took a deep breath under the sky of the schoolyard?

A mermaid in a uniformSakurazaka46

Sakurazaka46 “Mermaid in Uniform” Vocal Line Distribution

Casting off the uniforms that symbolize suffocating rules to become mermaids who swim freely—that earnest wish of the girls resonates at the heart of this Sakurazaka46 unit song.

It sets to upbeat electropop the delicate emotional landscape where rebellion against growing up mingles with a thirst to become someone.

The track is included on the single “Samidare yo,” released in April 2022.

The slightly sassy, precocious live performances further accentuate the song’s world.

When you feel like you’re struggling inside the “fish tank” of school regulations and others’ expectations, listening to it will gently nudge you toward staying true to yourself.

blue skyMarushii

Marcy – Blue Sky (Official Music Video)

An emotional rock ballad that portrays the hope that if you keep moving forward despite doubts and inner conflict, your heart will one day clear.

Created by Marcy, it was released in June 2025 as the theme song for the film “Youth Gestalt Collapse.” Vocalist-guitarist Ukyo Yoshida immersed himself in the script and drew on his own experiences during production, resulting in a piece that stands by the characters with complex emotions and resonates gently with listeners.

When you feel like you’re losing yourself, it’s sure to give you a gentle push forward.

summer squallarashi

ARASHI – Natsu Hayate [Official Music Video]

This uplifting and energetic cheer song by Arashi leaves a strong impression.

Written and composed by Yujin Kitagawa of the folk duo Yuzu, it delivers a powerful message of support to the high school baseball players who devote themselves wholeheartedly at the Summer Koshien.

When you hear this track, don’t you feel your heart swell with the players’ sweat, tears, and pure passion as they chase their dreams in the fleeting summer? Released in July 2018 as their 55th single, the song moved many as the official support song for that year’s 100th National High School Baseball Championship and the theme for the TV program “Netto Koshien.” It is also included in the best-of album “5×20 All the BEST!! 1999-2019.” It’s truly a hope-filled track that vividly colors the Summer Koshien.

cold; curt; blunt; unfriendlyRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Aloof [Official Music Video]

RADWIMPS is a rock band known for highly empathetic lyrics and heart-fluttering love songs.

Among their tracks, the one especially recommended for high school students is a number called “Sokkenai.” Many listeners will find themselves swooning over the lyrics that capture the delicate atmosphere before two people start dating.

While the song runs a relatively long seven minutes, it’s packed with charm that makes the time fly by when you listen while reading the lyrics.

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Saitō Ayumu

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A butterfly that cannot fly dreamsTogenashi Togeari

[Official Music Video] Tokenashi Togeari “A Butterfly That Can’t Fly Dreams” – Anime “Girls Band Cry”

An emotional rock tune that resonates with the heart, sublimating the worries and hopes of youth.

The raw feelings of young people seeking freedom are expressed alongside a powerful sound.

The exhilarating melody and memorable guitar riffs showcase a high level of polish that proves their ability.

Released in May 2025 as the B-side to Togenashi Togeari’s 10th single, “Daremo,” this track is a coming-of-age anthem that gently embraces the feelings of young people striving to look forward while torn between dreams and reality.

It’s a song that gives energy and courage—one you’ll want to listen to in a classroom after school—and a must-hear for young listeners struggling with their worries.

AgainWANIMA

WANIMA “Again” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This is a powerful message song by WANIMA that passionately sings of second chances and hope.

The protagonist’s strong will to face forward after overcoming failure and setbacks resonates with an energetic melody.

Included on the single “Good Job!!,” released in March 2019, and used as the theme song for the TBS drama “Maison de Police,” the track expresses the resolve to rise again despite carrying past pain and regret, as well as the courage to believe in oneself and move forward.

It’s a perfect song for those looking back on both the good and tough times of their school days and trying to lift their heads and keep going.