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!”?

CathartistRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Catharsist [Official Music Video]

This is a song by the rock band RADWIMPS, also known for the hit “Zenzenzense.” It was released in 2018 as their 22nd single.

The contrast between the cool, hip-hop-like phrases and the grand chorus is really stylish! It was featured as a TV network’s soccer support song and became a hot topic.

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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.

threadChris Hart

Chris Hart – Ito

This is a cover of Miyuki Nakajima’s “Ito,” a song that became a major talking point.

Chris Hart’s gentle, enveloping voice carries a beautiful melancholy.

It’s a song that teaches us the importance of people supporting one another as they go through life.

Precisely because high school is such an emotionally sensitive time, it’s a song I hope students will listen to.

Bitter VacationMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Bitter Vacation” Official Music Video

Accompanied by a gentle melody that stays close to the heart, this song resonates with the message, “It’s okay to take a break.” When you’re worn out from trying too hard, it reminds you of the importance of loosening your shoulders and taking a breath.

With soothing vocals and warm lyrics, it’s sure to heal the listener’s heart.

Seamlessly blending Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s musicality with the world of the film Saint Young Men THE MOVIE: Holy Men vs.

the Demon Army, the piece was written as the theme song in November 2024.

It’s a perfect cheer-up anthem not only for those struggling with worries, but also for anyone feeling tired from everyday life.

Nostalgic FutureKamishiraishi Mone

Mone Kamishiraishi “Natsukashii Mirai” (Lyrics/Composition: Naotaro Moriyama) Music Video

It’s an uplifting support song filled with dreams and hope.

Released in January 2022, Mone Kamishiraishi’s clear, pure voice resonates deeply.

Created as the support song for the 100th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, it was written and composed by Naotaro Moriyama.

The lyrics, which gently reassure those striving toward their dreams with the message “You are not alone,” are especially memorable, conveying a sense of hope for the future and bonds with friends.

It’s perfect for those stepping into a new environment or anyone wanting to cheer on new students, making it a great recommendation as background music for entrance ceremonies.

IlluminationB’z

B’z / Illumination

This heartwarming theme song for NHK’s morning drama series Omusubi blends hopeful lyrics with a memorable melody.

It warmly portrays bonds with those close to us and the joys of life, turning dreams and hopes found beneath the lingering evening sky into a beautiful piece that shines like illuminations.

Released by B’z in October 2024, this ambitious work marks their first contribution to a morning drama theme, featuring a gentle sound that stands apart from their previous hard rock style.

It’s a perfect song for when you want to cherish the small happinesses of everyday life or move toward your dreams together with friends.

It also resonates as a support song that balances tenderness with strength, making it great for school sports days and cheering scenes.