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

Savoring youthIkuta Rira feat. ano

Lilas Ikuta feat. ano “Seishun Ouka” Official Music Video

A song has been born that portrays the syrupy monotony of everyday life while showing how those very days will one day shine as treasured memories.

The warm voices of Lila Ikuta and ano ride the melody and quietly resonate.

Pure bewilderment at changes in the world and our surroundings, along with a strong resolve to overcome them together with someone dear, gently seep into the heart alongside the tender tune.

Released in March 2024 as the theme song for the latter chapter of the film Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction, the work also drew attention for the two artists’ performances as voice actors.

It is a heartwarming piece that embraces those who cherish the small joys hidden in a student’s daily life, the casual conversations with friends, and those who strive to face forward without fearing change.

Youth and a momentmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Youth and a Moment” MV

This is a moving song that captures a single, poignant moment of youth that resonates with high school students.

It finds light in the monotony of everyday life and carries a message to cherish each fleeting moment that leads into the future.

Macaroni Enpitsu’s delicate vocals and emotional sound gently embrace the feelings of young people.

Released as a digital single in March 2019, the track was later included on the album “season,” released in September of the same year.

It was also written for a McDonald’s commercial, and the music video featuring actress Nana Mori drew significant attention.

The song was used as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo drama “Ano Ko no Yume wo Mitandesu.” For those feeling bored or lost, and for students in the midst of their youth, this is a song that inspires you to treasure the present moment.

footprint(s)Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster “Ashiato” Music Video

This song, performed by the vocal group Little Glee Monster, was selected as the compulsory piece for the junior high division of the 2020 NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

The powerful singing of each member set against a piano‑featured accompaniment leaves a strong impression.

The lyrics depict the struggles that students and other young people are likely to face, along with their hopes and anxieties about the future.

The encouraging, forward-looking words are sure to sweep away any worries you may have! The image of pushing forward while struggling is the very essence of youth.

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Hane Keisuke

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It doesn’t meltmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Tokenai” MV

At first glance, the lyrics might make this song seem like a love tune, but it’s actually a coming-of-age anthem about friendship that really hits you in the heart.

The catchy melody line creates a familiar, comfortable vibe.

At the same time, there’s a tricky development mid-song where the tone shifts and a funky section appears, showcasing Macaroni Enpitsu’s impressive range.

The lyrics are excellent, so I recommend listening carefully while reading them multiple times.

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Hane Keisuke

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ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Chessboard [Official Video]

This is a grand number by Official HIGE DANDism that gives you the courage to take your own step, even as you lose your way, on the vast board we call life.

Its worldview, likened to a checkerboard of black and white squares, is sure to resonate deeply with high school students living through days without rules or right answers.

Included on a single released in September 2023, the song was created as the set piece for the Middle School Division of the 90th NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

It was also broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta and has been loved across generations.

Give it a listen when you feel crushed by wins and losses in club activities or the overwhelming pressure of entrance exams.

It will affirm the path you’ve taken so far and give you the strength to choose your next move.

Song SevenRADWIMPS

Nanoka

RADWIMPS, who continue to captivate countless listeners with their unique worldview.

Featured on their 2009 masterpiece Altcolony no Teiri, this song is especially striking for its structure, opening with a grand, gospel-like chorus.

Despite its six-and-a-half-minute length, the dramatic arc—from a quiet, storytelling tone to a chorus that erupts with emotion—never fails to stir the heart with each listen.

Lyrics by Yojiro Noda that affirm fate and express love for family—like “Oton to Okan” (Dad and Mom)—are surely etched deeply into the hearts of many who spent their youth with this music.

It’s a number that creates moving, unifying moments across entire venues at live shows, so give it a listen on a night when you want to forget the bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in music.

SunMy Hair is Bad

My Hair is Bad – Sun

It’s a song by My Hair is Bad imbued with the freshness of a spring breeze.

Vivid depictions unique to high school baseball—pre-game nerves, the smell of mud on the field, the sound of the brass band—resonate deeply.

The members’ past and present feelings intertwine, resulting in a gem that fires up the hearts of its listeners.

Released in March 2024, the track was written as the official theme song for MBS for the 96th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

At their show at Saitama Super Arena, they created a moving stage together with a full house of fans.

It’s a work that will resonate not only with those who have memories of the baseball club, but with anyone who threw themselves wholeheartedly into their youth.