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

Surges (feat. Natsuse & Luan)Orangestar

Orangestar – Surges (feat. Natsuse & Ruan) / CalorieMate web movie

This is a cheering song by Orangestar, whose exhilarating feel—like bursting through a summer blue sky—will fire up your determined heart.

Released in August 2021 and featured in a Calorie Mate web video, many of you may remember it.

Overlapping with the image of students sweating toward their goals, this piece gives you the courage to push through emotions that ebb and flow like waves and to dash toward the future.

Doesn’t that crystal-clear voice make you feel like it’s gently nudging you forward, whispering, “You’ve got this!”?

100% CourageHikaru GENJI

[Cheering Song] 100% Courage / Nintama Rantarō [covered by Yūki Kuroki]

Speaking of songs from the TV anime Nintama Rantarō, this one—Yūki 100%—is the classic.

Did you know it was released in 1993? It’s a song loved by people all across Japan, from kids to adults.

Even now that I’m grown up, I still find myself humming it—it’s such an upbeat, energetic tune.

Give it a listen whenever you’re feeling down.

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A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda “A Scenery I’ve Never Seen”

Its powerful message and emotional sound make it a great recommendation for junior high school students working hard in their club activities.

It’s a song by Masaki Suda, who is active as a popular actor.

It was released in 2017 as his solo debut single.

It gained attention after being featured in a commercial as a support song for Japan’s national soccer team.

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Araki Jakkan

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It’s not me unless it’s meGesu no Kiwami Otome.

Gesu no Kiwami Otome “Watashi Igai Watashi Janai no”

The catchy chorus leaves a strong impression, and once you hear it, you can’t forget it—it’s addictive.

Haven’t you heard it somewhere before? Even when you’re unsure or troubled, just like the title says, “No one but me is me,” it’s a song that helps you feel positive.

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Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster

Little Glee Monster 'Someday These Tears Will' Short Ver.

“Itsuka Kono Namida ga” by Little Glee Monster, a five-member female vocal group, was chosen as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Championship.

Their powerful vocals and uplifting lyrics really stir the heart.

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Let’s give it a tryWANIMA

au Santaro TV commercial: “Let’s Try It” edition (60 seconds + making-of footage)

WANIMA’s “Yatte Minai?”—featured as an au commercial song—is an energetic, exhilarating anthem.

Listening to it before club activities or studying will fire you up.

It’s a wonderful track that makes you feel positive and ready to take on any challenge.

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OutsiderAwesome City Club

Awesome City Club – Outsider (Music Video)

When you want to stay true to yourself, this is the Awesome City Club song to play.

Released in July 2015 and included on their second album, “Awesome City Tracks 2,” it features a crisp, upbeat groove with sharp guitar cutting and a stylish, urban interplay between male and female twin vocals.

The song’s theme is the importance of following the path you believe in.

That powerful message reportedly became a major turning point for the band.

It was also chosen as the theme song for Akita Asahi Broadcasting’s “Sata Navi!” and drew considerable attention.

If you listen to it when you’re taking a new step forward or feeling a bit unsure, it just might give you the courage you need.