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

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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You and the summer music festivalSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “You and the Summer Festival”

This is a very refreshing rock tune with the sparkling melodies of the three-piece all-female rock band SHISHAMO.

The driving, exhilarating beat feels like it links perfectly with high school life, and as you listen, you’ll feel like you could burst into a run at any moment.

Whether you’re going to a rock festival or not, listen to “Kimi to Natsu Fes” while thinking about “you”—definitely give it a try!

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Murakami Shinpei

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earnest desireSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Ketsubou” MV

A gem of a rock number that strikingly portrays the importance of human connection and smiles arrives from SUPER BEAVER.

One person’s happiness is built through the involvement of many, and smiles spread to those around us.

This song sings about such simple, subtle feelings in straightforward words.

Its lyrics, which encourage looking warmly upon others and embracing a generous heart, resonate strongly with the emotions of youth.

Included on the February 2024 album “Ongaku” (Music), the release also features several buzzworthy tracks such as “Gradation,” the theme song for Tokyo Revengers 2.

It’s a perfect choice for school events or sports festivals, ideal for young people who want to reaffirm their bonds with friends.

I like you.YUTORI-SEDAI

[Official Music Video] YUTORI-SEDAI – I Like You (Suki)

A song packed with the sweet, tender feelings of high school romance—stealing glances in class, getting absorbed in whatever your crush loves.

Many listeners will instantly relate to the anxiety of “Would it bother them if I told them how I feel?” Being rejected is scary, but it hurts even more to say nothing and have someone else swoop in, right? Why not listen to this track, take the courage it gives you, and go for a bold confession? YUTORI-SEDAI’s vocals will surely give you the push you need.

proofflumpool

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

A heartwarming song themed around parting with friends and setting out on new journeys.

It was released in September 2011 and produced as the set piece for the middle school division of that year’s NHK Nationwide School Music Competition.

It is also included on flumpool’s third original album, “experience.” The song was performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen, capturing the hearts of many.

Its lyrics, which sing of hope for the future and bonds between friends, especially resonate with students.

It’s a track that many can deeply relate to when facing changes like graduation or advancing to the next stage.

While expressing the sadness of saying goodbye to friends, it also portrays mutual respect for each other’s dreams, making it a song that speaks closely to high school students.

FRIENDS!!!imase

【imase】FRIENDS!!!（MV）

Set to a light, breezy melody, this heartwarming coming-of-age song celebrates the importance of friendship.

A groovy rhythm and the gentle vocals of imase, an artist from Gifu Prefecture, weave an exquisite harmony that carefully depicts reunions with friends, the subtle distances between hearts, and the feelings toward an unchanging bond.

Released in February 2025 as the theme song for the collaboration project “Everyone’s Concert” by the live communication app Pococha and Yamaha Corporation, the piece also features a special video with over 120 performers, proposing new ways to forge connections through music.

It’s perfect not only as BGM for school sports festivals and athletic meets, but also as a track to brighten any playlist capturing pages of youth spent with friends.

I adore you, you cutie!SUI

Adorable you are so precious! /sui

This is one of sui’s signature songs, capturing the sweet-and-sour feelings of youthful first love.

It tells how the narrator’s thoughts about the classmate they like—sitting right next to them—turn everyday life, starting with a simple “good morning,” into heart-throbbing, special moments.

The song vividly portrays the pangs and sweetness of being in love, from being disarmed by a smile to becoming completely infatuated.

Released in August 2020, the track became a hot topic among young people—especially on TikTok—and was a massive hit on YouTube with millions of views.

It’s a must-listen not only for high schoolers, but also for anyone who wants to revisit the bittersweet memories of first love!