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A wonderful classic

Friendship songs recommended for middle school students

Friends are treasures!

Here’s a quick introduction to a few songs that are popular with middle schoolers right now.

Many of them are major hits, but if there are any you don’t know yet, definitely add them to your playlist.

Reflect on your own feelings and, even just occasionally, say thank you to your friends and let them know you appreciate them.

Friendship Songs Recommended for Junior High School Students (81–90)

WINDKōda Kumi

A smash hit by Koda Kumi, one of Japan’s leading artists, celebrated for her exceptional vocals that move countless listeners and her overwhelming performances.

This track expresses the resolve to keep moving forward by drawing strength from memories with friends, even in difficult times.

FRIENDSOkazaki Taiiku

Okazaki Taiiku “FRIENDS” Music Video
FRIENDSOkazaki Taiiku

A song that resonates with the preciousness of friendship has been born.

The unique world view spun by Okazaki Taiiku and the pop, catchy melody are a perfect match.

The lyrics, which feel close to the listener’s heart, will gently wrap your treasured memories with friends.

Released in May 2016, this piece is perfect for junior high school students.

It’s especially recommended for listening in the classroom after school or on the way home.

It will help you rediscover the beauty of casual conversations and the time you spend together with friends.

In a sudden moment, you might even feel a surge of gratitude and want to say “thank you.”

You are my friend.Hirai Ken

A massive hit by Ken Hirai, one of Japan’s leading artists, known for his gentle, far-reaching vocals and overwhelming singing prowess.

The lyrics candidly depict deep friendship with a cherished friend, resonating with younger generations, and the song is also popular at karaoke.

Beautiful DaysHirai Dai

Dai Hirai / Beautiful Days (Lyric Video)
Beautiful DaysHirai Dai

A gentle anthem that accompanies the making of precious adolescent memories.

Dai Hirai’s acoustic melodies and warm vocals give a push to young people taking their first steps toward the future.

Riding on a calm yet powerful sound, it sings of hope in the darkness, the value of seemingly uneventful days, and the anticipation of a new departure.

Since its release in March 2025, the piece has drawn attention with a confirmed tie-in to an animated production.

The album “Life is Beautiful,” which also features a collaboration with Taro Hakase, reached No.

1 overall on iTunes.

It’s a song that supports students preparing and practicing for their school festivals, resonating with their hearts and helping them reaffirm the bonds with their cherished friends.

At any timeYugeda Kensuke

[Lyrics Video] Donnatokimo (Alto) — Vocals: Oita City Matsuoka Elementary School Music Club
At any timeYugeda Kensuke

Set to a gentle melody that feels familiar to everyone, Kensuke Yugeda’s song expresses gratitude at the milestone age of ten.

It warmly conveys precious memories with friends and heartfelt thanks to family and teachers.

Its tender, embracing tune resonates deeply with listeners and invites empathy.

The piece is included on the album “Dream & Dream: Yume o Tsunagou,” and it has been selected for inclusion in elementary school music textbooks starting in 2024.

Mr.

Yugeda, who holds school concerts nationwide, has performed over 2,000 times and continues composing with children in mind.

It is a song you’ll want to sing with care when expressing gratitude to important people, such as at a “Half-Coming-of-Age Ceremony” or end-of-year school events.

Every girlToukyou Jihen

Tokyo Incidents – Any Girl Can
Every girlToukyou Jihen

This song poetically depicts the magical allure within women.

It was included on Tokyo Jihen’s May 2011 single “Sora ga Natteiru / Onna no Ko wa Dare Demo.” Also used as the theme for Shiseido’s Maquillage commercial, the track shines with a fresh attempt by an external arranger.

Many middle schoolers may find the lyrics—expressing women’s strength, fragility, and multifaceted nature—deeply relatable.

Precisely because this is a time when you might be struggling with friendships or searching for your true self, why not listen to this song and rediscover your own charm? Surely, there’s a lovely kind of “magic” slumbering within you too.

Recommended friendship songs for junior high school students (91–100)

Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

Far Away, Far Away – Noriyuki Makihara (Full)
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki

A smash hit by the artist Noriyuki Makihara, whose exceptional musical sensibility has earned him high acclaim not only in Japan but overseas as well.

It’s a classic friendship song that conveys the feeling of cheering on a friend who has moved far away, no matter where they are.