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.

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.

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!

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.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN

GReeeeN – Michi (Road/Path)

A classic GReeeeN song to listen to when you hit a wall with daily studies or club activities and feel like giving up.

Released in January 2007, it was their memorable debut single and was featured widely in the media, including as the opening theme for CDTV.

The lyrics convey a message of believing in yourself and moving forward no matter the difficulties, offering comfort and courage to listeners.

It’s loved by top athletes as well—pitcher Yu Darvish has said it supported him.

In 2017, it was used in a SUBARU commercial, drawing renewed attention a decade after its release.

When you feel uncertain about the path you’ve chosen, this is a cheer song that gently nudges you forward.

IBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN「I」（Official Audio）

When you need the courage to choose your future, how about the powerful sound of BUMP OF CHICKEN? This track was selected as the ending theme for the TV anime My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON.

Released for streaming in October 2025, the song was created with deep respect for the story’s world, as all the band members are fans of the original work.

As the title—meaning “myself”—suggests, the lyrics portray a mix of hope and impatience, while the exhilarating rock sound is sure to resonate with teens in the midst of their youth.

Give it a listen especially when you want to fire yourself up.

single-minded; earnest; wholehearted; dedicatedSUPER BEAVER

SUPER BEAVER “Hitamuki” Music Video (TV Anime “My Hero Academia” Season 6 Opening Theme)

This is a work I want middle schoolers to hear when they’re on the verge of breaking down because they’re not getting the results they hoped for in studies or club activities: the latest from SUPER BEAVER, a rock band that delivers passionate messages.

It’s a straightforward cheer song that affirms giving your all—in other words, “single-minded dedication” itself.

No matter how many times you fail, the will to take just one step forward from there is what leads to hope for the future—the song gives you a powerful push on the back.

The lyrics, which preach the importance of believing in yourself and moving forward, are sure to resonate with anyone working hard at their studies.

Released as a single in November 2022, it was chosen as the opening theme for Season 6 of the popular anime My Hero Academia.

It also aligns with the anime’s worldview of facing hardships, making it perfect for those clutch moments before a test or a game when you need to fire yourself up!