Japanese bands recommended for junior high school students

O-P-P-A-IKankaku Pierrot

Kankaku Piero 'O.P.P.A.I' OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

It’s “O.P.P.A.I” by Kan-Boon? No—by Kankaku Piero, a song whose title directly embodies a phrase that fires up the imagination of hot-blooded middle schoolers.

It’s a track that passionately belts out, with incredible intensity, a theme that’s simply what’s in the title.

While it might seem like a gag song, the sound is solid, making it a sure-fire tune to stir the hearts of rock kids.

One Night CarnivalKishidan

Kishidan – One Night Carnival

This is Kishidan’s debut song, whose live performances—featuring their one-of-a-kind style of school uniforms and pompadours—left a mark on the music scene.

Its retro vibe might feel fresh to today’s junior high students.

It’s a track that captures the soul of old-school tsuppari rebels.

modern kidsShinsei Kamattechan

Shinsei Kamattechan “Imadoki no Ko” MUSIC VIDEO

Their eccentric world is very unique, and they have many devoted young fans—like a cult following.

It might be a bit intense for middle schoolers, but I think you can make exciting new discoveries by checking out different bands, so I definitely recommend watching their music videos at least once.

cpxBIGMAMA

CPX

This is a work from the early days of BIGMAMA, a hugely popular band that now plays live at the Budokan.

The vibe is a bit different from today’s, with a somewhat rough-around-the-edges feel, but I want middle schoolers who only know the current BIGMAMA to understand that the roots of their emotional songs include tracks like this.

Ready Steady GoL’Arc〜en〜Ciel

L’Arc～en～Ciel「READY STEADY GO」-Music Clip-

Now, it’s no exaggeration to say they stand at the very top as a charismatic, show-stopping band, boasting tremendous popularity across all ages.

It wouldn’t be an overstatement to say they could hold their own on the world stage.

Of course, reaching the pinnacle as a band is tough, but it’s great to hone your skills and set your sights on a clear goal.

Funny Bunnythe pillows

Funny Bunny

This is “Funny Bunny,” a classic by the pillows that countless artists can’t help but cover.

It’s an uplifting anthem that sings about how dreams come true as a result of persevering without giving up.

I highly recommend it to middle school students who are pursuing a variety of dreams.

LAST HEROBLUE ENCOUNT

BLUE ENCOUNT “LAST HERO” Music Video [Theme song for the NTV Saturday drama “THE LAST COP”]

BLUE ENCOUNT is a rock band that has been active since 2004.

This song was used as the theme song for the NTV drama “THE LAST COP,” and the tie-in helped raise their profile not only among young people but across a wide range of age groups.