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

Good Luck!SixTONES

SixTONES – Good Luck! [YouTube ver.]

This is an exceptionally positive cheer song chosen as the theme for member Jesse’s first starring drama, “Saisho wa Pā.” Released as a single in November 2022, it was later included on the album “Koe.” If you have a dream you want to achieve, it’s okay to fail or be laughed at.

That kind of straightforward encouragement gives a powerful push to junior high schoolers diving into a new environment.

Packed with down-to-earth smiles and brightness that feel a bit different from their previously cool image, this work is perfect for the morning of an entrance ceremony when you want to blow away your worries.

Debuting at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, it captured many hearts.

Just listening to it will make you feel positive, so why not play it on your commute as a good-luck charm for the school life that’s about to begin?

what kind of person / who (on earth)King&Prince

King & Prince “Nanimono” MV YouTube Edit

When you look in the mirror dressed in your new uniform, don’t you feel a little more grown-up? In that heart-thumping spring, there’s a warm cheer song by King & Prince that gently stays by your side.

Released as a single in June 2023, it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “However, I Have Passion,” which depicts the half-lives of Masayasu Wakabayashi and Ryota Yamasato.

Centered on the theme of the importance of enjoying the present without putting on airs, just listening makes your heart feel light and buoyant.

Changes in your environment can bring anxiety, but this song will surely give you a gentle push forward.

Its unadorned words carry a message that helps you notice the small happiness in everyday life.

If you listen on your way to school, your excitement for school life will grow, and your steps will surely feel lighter.

Blossom declaration!Chou Tokimeki♡Sendenbu

Blossom declaration!

The idol group Cho Tokimeki♡Sendenbu, who are gaining popularity for bringing heart-fluttering excitement to their audience, released “Kaika Sengen!” in January 2026—a track marked by a bright, springlike, sparkling sound.

The song was selected as the theme for the film “Secret AiPri the Movie: Mankai Bazurium Live!” Its lyrics portray a resolve to bloom as oneself while hiding a timid heart, offering strong encouragement to new students filled with both hope and anxiety.

It’s also included on their March 2026 album “Tokimeki Egao,” showcasing the group’s momentum.

Even on a nerve-wracking entrance ceremony morning, receiving their cheer will help you step forward with a smile!

Decisive Battle SpiritCHiCO with HoneyWorks

Decisive Battle Spirit / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

A cheer song that stands by the hearts of junior high school students.

It’s a number that laughs off the impossible and sings about the importance of never giving up.

It will surely resonate with students struggling with club activities or studies.

Released in February 2020, this track was also used as the ending theme for the anime Haikyu!! TO THE TOP.

It’s a song packed with the charm of CHiCO with HoneyWorks.

The band team joined the recording, resulting in a track that conveys its heat and passion as-is.

It’s recommended listening on the day before an important occasion, like high school entrance exams or a big tournament.

It’s sure to give you the energy you need for tomorrow!

PRIDEChōkyūmei

“PRIDE” Music Video / Cho Q May

The band Chōkyūmei drew attention from listeners with the viral hit “I Want to Be Your Lover.” Among their genre-defying tracks, the song we especially want middle schoolers to hear is the uplifting “PRIDE.” It expresses a strong resolve to overcome any hardship and be a source of strength for someone important.

Backed by a bright band arrangement that features a horn section, Rei’s clear, expansive vocals deliver a powerful cheer.

It’s a track that’s perfect for pivotal moments, or for singing when you want to encourage someone.

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365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48

[MV] Paper Airplane of 365 Days (Short ver.) / AKB48 [Official]

Isn’t it the perfect song for high school students who are about to embark on many different paths in life? There will be times when the future seems unclear or you feel anxious.

When you listen to this song, it makes you feel like you can keep going at your own pace without rushing.

rainbowAqua Timez

Aqua Timez “Niji” Music Video (Theme song for the drama Gokusen Season 3)

Aqua Timez’s “Niji” gently wraps a heart on the verge of breaking and gives it a powerful push forward.

Released in May 2008 as their sixth single, it became widely loved as the theme song for the drama Gokusen: The Third Series, starring Yukie Nakama.

The melody, which fuses sweeping strings with a powerful band sound, has a refreshing clarity that feels like your view opening up just by listening.

Its million certification for surpassing one million downloads also speaks to its long-lasting support.

When you feel lonely studying for exams or frustrated by results in your club activities, give this song a listen.

The straightforward message in the chorus will pour fresh energy into your anxious heart and help you keep going.