Recommended for junior high school students! A roundup of J-pop and Japanese songs to boost your study motivation

ANTENNAMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「ANTENNA」Official Music Video

When you can’t stay focused at your desk and your motivation is running low, this is exactly when you should listen to Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s exhilarating, fast-paced rock tune.

It’s the title track that opens their July 2023 album “ANTENNA,” and it was also chosen as the Japan national team’s support song for Fuji TV’s FIVB Paris Olympic Qualifiers/World Cup Volleyball 2023.

Its message—trusting your own sensibilities and moving toward the future—paired with its dynamic sound is sure to lift an anxious heart.

With its shape-shifting development and abundant energy, just listening will recharge your positive power.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to reset and boost your motivation, like during breaks from exam study or before club activities.

Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya

Where Our Blue Is / Tatsuya Kitani

This song, the title track of Tatsuya Kitani’s EP “Ao no Sumika,” released in July 2023, was chosen as the opening theme for the second season of the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen, “Hidden Inventory / Premature Death.” The lyrics, which layer the radiance of youth with the sense of loss that comes with adulthood, really hit home.

The chime tones that ring out amid the driving rock sound evoke a certain nostalgia, don’t they? Its refreshing yet emotional vibe makes it a perfect BGM choice for work or study when you want to get fired up.

Biri MillionYuuri

Yuuri “Birimirion” Official Music Video

This is a stirring cheer song filled with a passionate message: “No matter how much money I’m offered, I won’t give up the time I have now.” Sung by Yuuri, the track powerfully teaches the value of time in life and the importance of making your own choices.

Released as a single in January 2023, it’s also known as the opening number of the album ‘Ni’ (Two).

The flipbook-style music video created by comedian Tekken became a major topic of conversation as well.

It’s a song I especially want junior high students—who may be wondering what they should do now for their future—to hear.

When you’re unmotivated to study or anxious about your path, listening to it will give you the courage to decide your own life.

Step by Step ~Prayer for Success~Neontetra

Neontetra “Step by Step ~Prayer for Success~” Music Video

In the midst of studying for exams, when you want to ease your anxiety… that’s exactly when we hope you’ll listen to this warm, encouraging song by Neontetra.

Originally released on CD in April 2020, a remastered major-label version followed in October 2021.

While vividly portraying the inner conflict of feeling down when you compare yourself to others and the impatience that comes with it, the song teaches the importance of moving forward steadily, one step at a time.

If you’re troubled by mock exam results or feel like you’re being crushed by pressure at night, listening to this track will surely help you feel, “It’s okay,” and look ahead with positivity.

flying boatKing Gnu

King Gnu – Hikōtei (Seaplane)

If you’re looking for a rock track with a hefty beat and grand sound that lifts your spirits and gives you a strong push forward, this is the song for you.

One of King Gnu’s signature tunes, it blows away the hesitation that comes from worrying too much about society’s norms and what’s “right,” and gives you the courage to freely chase your dreams.

Released as a single in August 2019, it’s also included on the January 2020 album CEREMONY.

It also made waves for being written specifically for an ANA (All Nippon Airways) TV commercial.

Packed with a fiery message to live with your soul trembling, this song is guaranteed to spark motivation from deep within when you’re feeling worn out from studying or club activities.

Blue Springback number

back number – Aoi Haru (full)

How about a rock number that portrays the determination to move forward desperately while facing one’s own weaknesses? It’s a single released by back number in November 2012, written as the theme song for the drama “High School Entrance Exam” starring Masami Nagasawa.

The song carries a powerful message that urges you on, even as you struggle with setbacks and inner conflict.

Professional baseball player Yuya Gunji has also used it as his walk-up song, calling it an important track that gives him a push.

It’s a must-listen for junior high school students who feel stuck in their studies and are losing confidence, or who want to fire themselves up at a crucial moment.

Give it a listen, and you’ll surely find the courage to face your desk again.

The world is smiling at you.Little Glee Monster

The world is smiling at you.

With its bright, sparkling sound and lyrics about a chain reaction of smiles, this Little Glee Monster track blows away study fatigue.

It drew attention as Coca-Cola’s 2018 image song.

In the same year, it won the Composer’s Award at the Japan Record Awards and is included on the classic album FLAVA.

Its message—that if you start smiling, the world will change—gently encourages exam-takers who tend to feel down.

You’ll surely feel a positive surge of energy to say, “I’ll give it another try!”