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)

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!

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.

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.

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.

ElfAdo

This song explores themes of loneliness and struggle, set in a fantastical world with profound messages.

Inspired by a legendary long-lived race, it portrays a solitary battle, growth, and confronting oneself.

Ado’s powerful vocals brilliantly capture both the strength and fragility of facing loneliness.

It is used as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Who Saw the Peacock Dance?” airing from January 2025, perfectly matching the world of the series starring Suzu Hirose.

Centered on strings and piano, the arrangement creates a richly emotional atmosphere, making it a memorable track that enhances the drama.

It’s a heartwarming anthem that gently supports those trying to carve out their own path or take a new step forward.