Recommended ballad songs for junior high school students. Famous and popular J-Pop songs.

OLDROSEAqua Timez

『BLEACH』× Aqua Timez『OLDROSE』 | JUMP MV

This is a gem of a number that sings about human connections and the meaning of life.

Created by Aqua Timez, the piece was written specifically for the anime BLEACH.

For the band—who have four previous tie-ins with the series, from “Sen no Yoru wo Koete” to “MASK”—this marks their fifth collaboration.

Their signature emotional vocals blend beautifully with melodic instrumentation.

While closely aligning with the anime’s world, the song delivers a universal message that anyone can relate to.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking music that resonates with the heart.

precious loveEXILE ATSUSHI

EXILE ATSUSHI / Precious Love

This is a song by EXILE’s ATSUSHI.

I think anyone in love will find parts they can relate to.

ATSUSHI’s clear voice evokes a bittersweet yet gentle feeling.

It’s a song that makes you want to cherish the person you’re with.

May it be filled with kindnessFlower

Flower “So That It Overflows With Kindness” [Movie “Evergreen Love (A Herb Book): I Picked Up a Fateful Love” Theme Song ver.]

This is a cover song by Flower released in 2016.

They’re a group that’s especially popular among high school students.

The poignant melody and lyrics are striking, and I think many people feel a sense of warmth when they listen to this song.

It’s one of those tracks you find yourself wanting to listen to on a whim.

HEROMr.Children

Mr.Children「HERO」［(an imitation)blood orange］Tour2013 Live

I feel like I could cry just from the opening lines.

The title is “HERO,” but it’s not about a hero who saves many people—it’s a song about wanting to be a hero for someone special.

It’s a classic that conveys quiet, thoughtful kindness.

CorrectRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

A perfect song by RADWIMPS for graduation season.

Released digitally in January 2024, this track carries a message that resonates with students.

Ever since it was performed at the live event “18 Fes,” it has been a hot topic among young people.

It features a distinctive arrangement incorporating a student choir, with a structure that ranges widely from piano accompaniment to full band sound.

It’s recommended not only for students about to graduate, but for anyone ready to take a new step in life.

Be sure to give it a listen this spring.

We againSG

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

A ballad wrapped in warm kindness, with a melody and lyrics that portray life’s important milestones and resonate deeply.

It weaves the universal themes of “farewell” and “reunion” together with everyday memories, overflowing with a gentle empathy that stays close to the listener’s heart.

SG’s expansive, expressive vocals deliver these feelings with care.

Released in April 2021, the song was also featured from November 2024 as the Calorie Mate exam-season support commercial song.

A wind ensemble version in collaboration with the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Orchestra has also generated buzz.

It’s a perfect track for soothing a work-weary heart or when you want a boost to keep going tomorrow.

fateTani Yuuki

Fate – Tani Yuuki [MV]

A moving song that sings of life’s uncertainty and hope.

It’s Tani Yuuki’s self-cover of a track he gifted to Ryota Katayose, included on the album “Tamentai.” Also featured as an insert song in the TV Tokyo drama “Fate Police,” this piece delicately captures the feelings of those pursuing their dreams.

The tug-of-war between the self that wants to give up and the strong self that refuses is portrayed beautifully.

You’re sure to relate to the struggle to find one’s path amid the intertwining of happiness and unhappiness.

It’s a song I especially want high school students to hear—one that might spark hopes and dreams for the future.