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)

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.

ReawakeR (feat.Felix of Stray Kids)LiSA

LiSA『ReawakeR (feat. Felix of Stray Kids)』MUSiC CLiP
ReawakeR (feat.Felix of Stray Kids)LiSA

This is a collaborative piece by LiSA, known for her powerful vocals and energetic melodies, and Stray Kids’ Felix.

The lyrics, expressing the resolve to carve out one’s destiny and the determination of someone reborn, carry a message of challenge and growth.

Created as the opening theme for the TV anime “Solo Leveling Season 2 – Arise from the Shadow,” airing from January 2025, the song is composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, a leading figure in the industry.

With a masterful fusion of rock sounds and electronic elements, this track will strongly encourage middle school students who want to forge their own path.

In that casemakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Empitsu "Saraba" Music Video
In that casemakaroni enpitsu

It’s a love song that beautifully captures fresh memories of youth and the aching pain of unrequited love.

Created by Macaroni Enpitsu, the piece portrays unreturned feelings and longing for someone from a warm, gentle perspective.

Its sweet, wistful vocals and melodious sound tenderly embrace the complexities of being in love.

Released in January 2025, it serves as the opening theme for the second cour of the TV anime Ao no Hako.

Seamlessly harmonizing with the anime’s worldview, it succeeds in expressing the vivid emotions of youth through music.

This heartwarming track resonates deeply not only with those currently in love but also with anyone who recalls a past romance.

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!

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.