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

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

This song’s free-spirited trumpet sounds feel absolutely amazing.

It’s a track by SHISHAMO, a three-piece girls’ band from Kanagawa Prefecture.

It’s included on their 2017 album SHISHAMO 4.

Even if you’re worn out today, listening to this will help you keep going tomorrow.

Her voice is so cute.

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Araki Jakkan

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ultramarineYOASOBI

YOASOBI “Gunjō” from their first concert with an audience, ‘NICE TO MEET YOU,’ 2021.12.04 @ Nippon Budokan

This song gives you the courage and hope to move forward toward your dreams.

Its unique worldview, based on a novel, is captivating and resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in September 2020, it was so popular that it stayed on the charts for 182 weeks.

For middle school students, this track is sure to be a powerful ally in school life.

It’s perfect for those moments when you want to motivate yourself—whether it’s studying, club activities, or friendship.

When you set out on a journey to find your own colors, give it a listen.

It will surely give you the courage to take a step toward tomorrow!

-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.

horizonback number

back number – Horizon Line / from LIVE Blu-ray & DVD 'in your humor tour 2023 at Tokyo Dome'

A gem of a ballad from back number, known for their poignant lyrics and melodies.

It was created as an encouragement song for high school students whose Inter-High championships were canceled during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The vocalist Iyori Shimizu himself once aimed for the Inter-High in his own high school days, and he poured special feelings into the song.

It was released as a surprise on YouTube in August 2020 and later garnered a huge response on streaming platforms.

The lyrics portray setbacks and hardships in the pursuit of dreams, as well as the strength to overcome them—resonating with many young people.

It’s a song that gently supports students struggling with school life and anyone who wants to take on a challenge.

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism

Official HIGE DANDism – Fate [Official Video]

This song powerfully portrays the passion and challenges of high school baseball players.

Released by Official HIGE DANDism in July 2019, it was chosen as the 2019 ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song and the theme song for “Netto Koshien,” capturing the hearts of many.

While it shows that the road to a dream is never smooth, it gives the courage to keep moving forward without giving up.

Its message—that the days of effort, crystallized in sweat and tears, will surely become treasures that color your future—will resonate with anyone struggling through student life.

It’s a must-listen, especially for junior high school students preparing for high school entrance exams.

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.