RAG MusicJunior
A wonderful classic

Good songs recommended for junior high school students. Classic and popular Japanese hits.

“‘Good songs’ sounds way too vague…,” do you think? But we’re featuring songs that are so good, that’s the only way to describe them! We cover Japanese music across genres and moods, so you can enjoy it without ever getting bored.

Great songs recommended for junior high school students. Classic and popular Japanese tracks (71–80)

Teenager ForeverKing Gnu

King Gnu, now an undisputed top artist.

This song is included on their third album, CEREMONY, released in 2020.

It’s a famous track, partly because it was used in a commercial.

Middle schoolers and teens—do you have dreams for the future? As we grow up, our dreams and hopes often get crushed by reality, but this song makes you want to keep living honestly, with the same unwavering intensity, without losing yourself.

My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (movie ver.) [Official Music Video]
My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS

A lot of people probably like the rock band RADWIMPS, don’t they? For junior high school students, I imagine the song that immediately comes to mind is the one released in 2016.

Of course, they’ve released many other great tracks, and I’m sure many of you love those as well, but if you’re not familiar with them, start with this song! Its story-like, romantic lyrics and driving performance pack in everything that makes them so compelling.

Waiting for springWANIMA

WANIMA is a rock band bursting with brightness and full of exhilarating momentum, whose positive lyrics cheer the heart—many of you probably like them, right? Among Japanese rock bands, they appear in the media quite often, and for many people, they were the gateway to liking melodic punk and rock bands in general.

This song combines their trademark catchiness with a warm, human message—that’s part of its charm.

Although they give off an image of being “mischievous big brothers,” they sometimes sing gentle songs that stay close to our hearts.

It’s probably this gap that captivates so many fans!

idolYOASOBI

YOASOBI "Idol" Official Music Video
idolYOASOBI

YOASOBI’s songs are loved by a wide range of generations! This particular track was used as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oshi no Ko,” so it’s been a huge talking point.

With a 166 BPM technopop sound composed by Ayase layered with ikura’s clear, crystalline vocals, it’s incredibly catchy.

The lyrics portray both the strength and vulnerability of being an idol, as well as the desire to be loved and to love, and they’re sure to resonate with listeners.

Since its release in June 2023, it’s become popular among many middle school students.

It’s a perfect song to listen to on the way to school or to sing at karaoke.

Be sure to give it a listen!

The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell

Bakemonogatari ED – The Story You Don’t Know
The Story You Don't Knowsupercell

Featured as the ending theme for the anime Bakemonogatari, this track captivates with a blend of exhilarating freshness and driving momentum.

Although it was released in 2009, the anime’s popularity has helped it remain a beloved song in the anison world to this day.

Many anime music fans may already know it! But this is a track we’d love people outside the anison community to hear as well.

The melody line is incredibly catchy and easy on the ears—you’ll likely find yourself humming along after just one listen.

It’s a song whose simple, straightforward appeal shines through without any need for complexity.

Dinner Songtuki.

tuki. 'Banquet Song' acoustic self-accompanied version
Dinner Songtuki.

In the stillness of midnight, the lingering sound of an acoustic guitar—like savoring time alone—feels truly comforting.

Tuki.’s wistful vocals express the inner conflict and affection of someone who ends up hurting the one they love.

Released in September 2023, the song also achieved commercial success, including reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Japan Singles Chart.

The gentle yet heartrending lyrics speak directly to the listener’s heart.

Highly recommended for those who want to listen to a bittersweet love song.

A Naked Heartaimyon

Aimyong, a musician who represents the late 2010s music scene, is surely indispensable for trend-conscious middle schoolers too! Her songs, which package the classic charm of folk music in a modern sound, are popular across generations.

What’s more, for many younger listeners she’s a charismatic figure and even feels like a spokesperson for their feelings.

This song, of course, will also resonate deeply with the younger generation, with lyrics they can relate to from the bottom of their hearts.