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!

Songs popular among junior high school students. Also includes tracks trending on social media (161–170)

flower fortune-tellingVaundy

Flower Fortune-telling / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO
flower fortune-tellingVaundy

For junior high schoolers—in other words, for youth—love is a given.

This song by Vaundy, a multi-creator who also handles his own visuals and artwork, was released in 2021 as his 12th single.

It drew attention when it was chosen as the theme song for the drama “My Dear Ex-Boyfriend Is a Killer” (Boku no Satsui ga Koi o Shita).

Its driving, glamorous sound is exhilarating, and Vaundy’s expansive vocals are wonderful.

If you’re feeling hesitant about love, this song might just help you take the leap.

My friend — now and forever…Ketsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “My Friend ~ From Here On Forever…”
My friend — now and forever…Ketsumeishi

It was released in 2016 as Ketsumeishi’s 29th single.

The song was used as the theme for the Toho-distributed film Crayon Shin-chan: Fast Asleep! The Great Assault on the Dreaming World.

The music video features the three members of Dachou Club and portrays their friendship.

Crayon Shin-chan is still a popular anime among junior high school students.

Telecaster StripePorukadotto Sutingurei

Polkadot Stingray “Telecaster Stripe” MV
Telecaster StripePorukadotto Sutingurei

Among the new generation of Japanese rock bands, Polkadot Stingray is especially popular.

This song is known as one of their signature tracks.

With its cool guitar cutting and the distinctive vocals of Shizuku, it’s a song full of charm.

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 46

It was released in 2016 as Nogizaka46’s 16th single.

The song features Nanami Hashimoto in the center position, and its concept combines the “mature and fashionable image” associated with her—who announced she would graduate after this activity—with the winter season when it was released.

The lyrics are perfect for graduation, making it a popular choice as a junior high school graduation song.

Long Hope PhiliaSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda “Long Hope Philia”
Long Hope PhiliaSuda Masaki

A song performed by Masaki Suda, a hugely popular actor and singer right now! “Long Hope Philia,” written as the theme song for the anime film My Hero Academia: Two Heroes.

When you listen to it, it brings to mind someone dear to you and gives you courage.

The word “Philia” in the title is Greek for affection or friendship toward someone dear.

SoliloquyClariS

ClariS “Hitorigoto” Music Video Short ver.
SoliloquyClariS

It was released in 2017 as their 17th single.

The title track was used as the opening theme for a TV anime.

It’s filled with a very delicate vocal performance and the unique appeal of twin vocals.

The choreography is also very distinctive and easy to learn.

In conclusion

We’ve introduced plenty of songs popular among junior high school students—what did you think? There were lots of tracks making waves on TV, artists who represent the J-pop scene, and songs trending on YouTube and social media.

Did you find a new favorite? Give the songs we featured a listen, and be sure to exchange recommendations with your friends at school!