RAG MusicBand
A wonderful Japanese music band

Japanese bands recommended for junior high school students

I think many people first pick up an instrument in middle school.

I’d like to introduce some bands that could inspire you to start your own band.

They’re all super cool and passionate—absolute must-listens for middle schoolers!

Recommended Japanese bands for junior high school students (11–20)

Windy DayELLEGARDEN

It’s “Kaze no Hi” by the four-piece rock band ELLEGARDEN, who have become legendary—already ten years since they went on hiatus.

Life has tough days and fun days, but this is a cheering song filled with the message: let’s live joyfully and keep moving forward.

It’s a track I especially want middle schoolers—who weren’t around during the band’s active years—to listen to.

asking for the moonKANA-BOON

KANA-BOON “Naimono Nedari” Music Video
asking for the moonKANA-BOON

Here comes KANA-BOON, known for their upbeat tracks.

Their music has a wonderful handmade feel—simple, honest, and charming in a way that puts you at ease.

I hope the middle schoolers can fully bring out their own unpretentious appeal and grow into a really cool band.

Take me underMAN WITH A MISSION

When it comes to wolf-themed bands, it’s them.

Every time I watch them on TV, I get drawn into their world.

A hard, no-nonsense band.

Their orthodox songs are cool precisely because they stick to their guns without wavering.

Practice every day.

Work hard, put in the effort, and let’s play with style.

Get UpMONOEYES

MONOEYES – Get Up(Music Video)
Get UpMONOEYES

Get Up by MONOEYES is a four-piece rock band led by Takeshi Hosomi, featuring members that would excite any rock kid.

It’s an anthem that blows away the overwhelming anxiety of not seeing what lies ahead and gives you a push on the back to keep moving forward, even if you’re wounded.

69ONE OK ROCK

【HD】ONE OK ROCK – 69 “Mighty Long Fall at Yokohama Stadium” LIVE
69ONE OK ROCK

Among ONE OK ROCK’s many songs, this one stands out for its distinctive approach: it revolves around the theme that there are things a song alone cannot convey, and is characterized by unfolding primarily through spoken narration.

It is a track that teaches us there are times when we devote our lives to turning dreams into reality.

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO

Among teenage girl bands, SHISHAMO is definitely the most popular.

They’re very cute, and beyond that, their musical skills leave a great impression.

I recommend first aiming for SHISHAMO and trying to copy their instrumental techniques.

Go for it, girls’ bands!

Recommended Japanese bands for junior high school students (21–30)

I’m a BelieverSPYAIR

SPYAIR “I’m a Believer” – TV anime Haikyu!! Second Season opening theme
I'm a BelieverSPYAIR

SPYAIR, well-known for their work on the theme songs for the anime Haikyu!!, deliver a refreshing, straight-ahead rock sound with a sense of speed.

There are probably bands out there doing complete covers of their songs.

Keep practicing every day, and I hope you’ll become a band with the same sharp edge as they have.