RAG MusicJunior
A wonderful classic

Songs popular among junior high school students. Also songs trending on social media.

Middle school students are probably super into the latest J-pop, right?

There are so many songs you won’t want to miss—theme songs from TV dramas and movies, tracks that are blowing up on social media and music shows, and brand-new releases from artists leading the J-pop scene.

And of course, you can’t skip the love songs!

In this article, we’ll introduce popular tracks among middle schoolers, as well as standout songs that went viral on social media and really resonate with them.

If you listen to the songs featured here, you’ll be able to jump into music talk at school tomorrow!

Popular songs among junior high school students. Trending tracks on social media, too (1–10)

Chu, diversity.ano

ano “Chu, Diversity.” Music Video
Chu, diversity.ano

This song is notable for its exhilarating, fast-paced guitar riffs.

Ano’s transparent, airy vocals and the pop-infused sound are delightful, making you want to listen on repeat.

Released in November 2022, it also drew attention for its tie-in with the TV anime Chainsaw Man.

Its energetic melody and catchy phrases captivate listeners.

It’s rapidly growing in popularity among young people and is being shared widely on social media.

This track is sure to liven up time with friends when sung at karaoke.

It’s a perfect song for junior high school students.

BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – BOW AND ARROW / Yuzuru Hanyu Short Program ver.
BOW AND ARROWYonezu Kenshi

This is a powerful track that Kenshi Yonezu poured his heart and soul into, created as the opening theme for an anime centered on figure skating.

Depicting a story of challenge and growth, the work captures the passion of those who push themselves in the world of sports through its strong melody and profound lyrics.

Released in January 2025, it was written specifically as the theme song for the anime “Medalist,” and it’s memorable that Yonezu, a huge fan of the original manga, personally offered to create it.

The song was also performed on the opening day of the nationwide tour “Kenshi Yonezu 2025 TOUR / JUNK,” captivating the audience.

It’s highly recommended for anyone striving toward the dreams and goals of their youth, making it a perfect choice to boost motivation during morning commutes to school or before club activities.

Sorry for Being Cute feat. Chu-tan (CV: Saori Hayami)HONEY WORKS

Sorry for Being Cute feat. Chuutan (CV: Saori Hayami) / HoneyWorks
Sorry for Being Cute feat. Chu-tan (CV: Saori Hayami)HONEY WORKS

It’s a perfect song for junior high schoolers in the thick of adolescence.

Produced by HoneyWorks and sung by Saori Hayami, it features story-like lyrics that compellingly portray a girl’s inner conflicts and first love.

It’s hugely popular on social media—you’ve probably heard it often on TikTok.

Released in November 2022, the track stands out with its poppy, catchy melody.

It’s perfect as background music for the walk home from school or chatting with friends.

If you’re a middle schooler struggling with love, definitely give it a listen!

Popular songs among junior high school students. Songs trending on social media, too (11–20)

Run, SAKAMOTOVaundy

Run, SAKAMOTO / Vaundy: SAKAMOTO DAYS with Vaundy
Run, SAKAMOTOVaundy

This is a masterful work by Vaundy, written specifically as the opening theme for a popular anime! The energetic melody generated by its heavy bassline and sharp guitar sound will set your heart racing.

Recorded in London, UK, this piece brings new musical challenges to life through collaboration with overseas staff.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime “SAKAMOTO DAYS,” airing from January 2025, it brilliantly captures the protagonist’s overwhelming strength and determination to protect his family.

It’s the perfect anthem not only for anime fans, but also for anyone who needs courage and a boost in their daily life!

A hundred flowers in full bloomIkuta Rira

Lilas Ikuta “Profusion of a Hundred Flowers” Official Music Video
A hundred flowers in full bloomIkuta Rira

A dramatic song by Rira Ikuta that paints a vividly colored future beyond hardship.

The melody, infused with traditional Japanese elements, blends beautifully with the grand sound.

Her translucent vocals and powerful beat deftly express the protagonist’s inner strength and delicate emotions.

Released in December 2024, the track was chosen as the opening theme for the anime “The Apothecary Diaries,” which begins airing in January 2025, and its vibrant jacket photo by Mika Ninagawa also drew attention.

It’s a song not only for anime fans, but one to hear when you’re at a crossroads or feeling lost.

It will surely awaken the courage sleeping in your heart.

A Gentle BallAimer

Aimer “Gentle Ball” Lyrics/English/Indonesian | NHK “Minna no Uta” | 25th single “SCOPE”
A Gentle BallAimer

Set at a starlit nighttime ball, this enchanting work spins a fantastical tale.

Aimer’s husky voice blends exquisitely with the classical waltz motif, vividly portraying mysterious scenes unfolding in the stillness of the night.

Beautiful like a fairy tale yet tinged with a certain wistfulness, its world seems to mirror the feelings of a girl wavering on the boundary between dreams and reality.

Included on the single “SCOPE,” released in February 2025, and broadcast around the same time on NHK’s Minna no Uta, this piece is made all the more magical by arrangements from Ryota Nakano and Yusuke Tanaka.

It’s a song that will stay close to your heart—whether you’re spending time with friends after school in an empty classroom or lost in thought while gazing up at the night sky.

We againSG

We Again (Wind Ensemble ver.) – SG (Official Behind-the-Scenes Music Video)
We againSG

This work by SG has gained support as an encouraging song that resonates deeply during graduations and farewells.

Its gentle melody, which accompanies young people as they overcome partings and take new steps forward, and its lyrics filled with hope for reunion are especially appealing.

Released in April 2021, it has become a popular track with a cumulative 150 million streams.

Starting in November 2024, it has also been featured in Calorie Mate’s exam-season support commercial, and a concert band version by the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Ensemble has been making waves.

It’s a heartwarming song for farewells, graduation ceremonies, and moments when you long to see someone special again.

It’s a recommended track for times when you want to cherish your memories while looking ahead and doing your best.