Recommended cheer-up songs for middle schoolers: Classic Japanese hits that will empower student life

life-formHoshino Gen

Gen Hoshino – Living Being (Official Video)

A single by Gen Hoshino released in August 2023, notable for its moving melody and powerful lyrics.

Chosen as the theme song for the World Athletics Championships and the Asian Games, this track carries a message that resonates beyond the world of sports and into everyday life.

Hoshino’s uniquely approachable yet strong vocals are sure to inspire a positive outlook.

It’s a song I especially want junior high school students to hear.

When you face your first hurdles in school life or club activities, this piece will stay close to your heart and gently give you a push forward.

CharacterRyokushokushakai

“Character” Live Video (Ryokuoushoku Shakai × Nippon Budokan “20122022”)

An uplifting song that lets you shine as your true self.

Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s track was released digitally in January 2022 and is included on the album “Actor.” Set to a contemporary sound influenced by soul and funk, it carries a message that boosts self-esteem.

It was also featured as the theme song for the “Juken ni in Jelly 2022” commercial, drawing attention.

Its bright melody and powerful lyrics are sure to resonate with junior high school students and give them a push.

It’s a song that energizes you in many moments of student life—studying, club activities, friendships, and more.

Listening to this track will help you reaffirm your individuality and sense of worth, and leave you feeling positive.

So, you are not alone.Little Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster “So, You’re Not Alone” Music Video Short Ver.

A heartwarming song packed with Little Glee Monster’s charm.

Released in May 2017, it was also used as the ending theme for the TV anime My Hero Academia.

It embodies their resolve for new challenges as they overcame the change of a member’s hiatus.

The music video, made in collaboration with Universal Studios Japan, also drew attention.

With lyrics that sing about the courage to face hardship and the importance of bonds with friends, it’s sure to resonate with middle schoolers.

It’s a recommended cheer song that gives you a push when you’re struggling with entrance exams or club activities.

It’s also a blast to belt out at karaoke!

Horse of YouthHinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46 'The Horse of Youth'

Hinatazaka46’s uplifting anthem, released as a coupling track to the 2020 single “Sonna Koto Nai yo.” Its dynamic rhythm and powerful message resonate deeply.

It was also chosen as the theme song for the drama “DASADA,” showcasing the members’ expressive performance.

In recent years, it’s often been danced to at school and cultural festivals.

There’s even a story that some members were moved to tears when they first heard the track during choreography practice, struck by its sheer power.

I think it’s wonderful to let this song unleash the conflicts and emotions of student life—especially when you feel you’re losing sight of your goals—and dance your heart out to it.

-ness; typicality; the quality/essence of being [X] (as in “X-ness” or “X-like character”)Ofisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Rashisa [Official Video]

This is a song by Official HIGE DANDism, a four-piece piano pop band from Shimane Prefecture.

Set to a fast-paced rock sound, it delivers a powerful message that affirms a heart wavering amid competition and inner conflict.

Released as a single in August 2025, the track serves as the theme song for the animated feature film “100m,” which portrays young athletes taking on track and field.

Its dramatic development, linked to the passionate themes of the original manga, is sure to give listeners a strong push forward.

When you hit a wall in club activities or studies, or when you can’t find motivation, listening to it will spark the courage to think, “It’s okay to be myself.” Perfect for boosting motivation right before a make-or-break moment.

MagicMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「Magic」Official Music Video

With the theme of “a little magic that changes your everyday mood,” this exhilarating number gives listeners a powerful push forward.

When your heart feels weary, its message helps flip your mindset to a positive “might as well enjoy it.” Released by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE in June 2023, it’s also known as the opening track of the album ANTENNA.

Written specifically for a Coca-Cola commercial, the song has garnered strong support, surpassing 300 million streams.

It’s perfect for a quick refresh between study sessions or when you just can’t get motivated.

The uplifting sound will clear away a gloomy mood in an instant.

You can do it.okayu

Okayu “You Can Do It” Music Video / Okayu “Kiminara Dekiru” Music Video

On the morning you slip into a brand-new uniform, the words “You can do it” are what warm your nervous heart.

This piece by singer-songwriter Okayu, released in December 2025, was selected as Cultural Broadcasting’s “Plus Tune” for December.

The episode of how it gave courage to so many people through radio is wonderful, too.

Its melody feels like moving from winter’s chill toward spring’s warmth, and the earnest vocals leave a strong impression.

Blending the nostalgic essence of Showa-era kayōkyoku with the familiarity of J-pop, this work is truly one of a kind.

When you feel a bit uneasy in an unfamiliar environment, its lyrics give you the strength to believe in yourself and cheer on your new life.

Especially when you hit a wall in the junior high school days ahead, make sure to receive the encouragement of this song.