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. Also songs trending on social media (51–60)

WA・BI・SA・BIPG

PG – WA・BI・SA・BI (Music Video)
WA・BI・SA・BIPG

Many of you were probably surprised to learn that the mysterious group that went viral on TikTok for their “fox masks × school uniforms” was actually PG, made up of members from the same generation.

This track is a celebratory party tune marking the moment they finally took off their masks and made their official debut in November 2024.

A hefty dance beat crafted by a world-class producer layers with piercing, high-tone vocals unique to teens, instantly lifting your mood just by listening.

Its powerful message—that you don’t need to hide who you are and that you can go anywhere as long as you’re with your crew—will surely give you a gentle push to take on something new.

Screw school.takayan

Singer-songwriter Takayan, whose highly empathetic lyrics have earned strong support especially among younger generations.

Released on June 24, 2023, “School Can Just Explode” delivers a powerful impact with a frenzied, rapidly shifting vocal performance.

The lyrics, which capture the anxiety and frustration of going to school, may feel like the ultimate form of escapism, yet still resonate on a deep level.

It’s an eccentric track whose blend of comedic flair and raw, real messaging proves irresistibly addictive.

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon

Sakanaction / New Treasure Island -Music Video-
New Treasure IslandSakanakushon

This is a track released by Sakanaction, a band especially popular among young people.

With its upbeat rhythm, catchy melody, and playful wordplay, the song—paired with the nostalgic feel of its music video—has been gaining popularity and has become a crowd-pleaser at live shows.

New Era (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)Ado

[Ado] New Genesis (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)
New Era (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)Ado

This song became a hot topic as the theme for the film adaptation of the anime One Piece Film: Red, which enjoys tremendous popularity even among middle schoolers.

Its fast-paced sound and Ado’s powerful, dynamic vocals are addictive once you hear them.

The title “New Genesis” is said to represent the world envisioned by the film’s heroine, Uta.

When you’re feeling down or overwhelmed by anxiety, listening to it will make you think, “A bright future surely awaits, so let’s take a step forward!” and help you feel more positive.

Popular songs among junior high school students. Songs trending on social media as well (61–70)

March 9Remioromen

Remioromen – March 9th (Music Video Short ver.)
March 9Remioromen

It’s a timeless Japanese song that’s a staple for graduation.

It became a major topic when it was used in the choir competition scene of the Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears.” The chorus hits hard with a swell of emotion that pierces the heart.

HAPPYSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE / HAPPY
HAPPYSandaime Jē Sōru Burazāzu fromu Eguzairu Toraibu

It was their 21st single overall and was chosen as the theme song for the NTV Saturday drama “Super Salaryman Saenai-shi.” It’s a super upbeat, exciting track that I think would be great for karaoke.

I felt it had a slightly different flavor from their previous works.

LemonYonezu Kenshi

This is a signature song by Kenshi Yonezu, one of Japan’s leading singer-songwriters.

The track became widely known as the theme song for the TV drama “Unnatural.” Not only its use of sound and lyrics that reveal his sensibilities, but also its distinctive music video garnered significant attention.