[Clubs, Friendship, Romance] Youth songs middle schoolers should listen to

We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā

I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.

A powerful anthem that gives you a push in those youthful moments.

Released by Sambomaster in February 2010, this song carries a warm message that boosts self-affirmation and the spirit to take on challenges.

Centered on themes of “not giving up,” “moving forward,” and “possibility,” it offers a gentle embrace for everyone’s anxieties and doubts while giving the courage to take a new step.

It has been featured in a Nissan commercial and as the image song for the film Cheer☆Dance, resonating with many hearts.

It’s a classic that students training for sports festivals, as well as anyone standing at a crossroads in life, should hear.

Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā

Sambomaster / Starting to Shine and Run - MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a cheer song brimming with youthful passion and hope.

It portrays a protagonist who carries deep pain in their heart and feels on the verge of losing themselves, yet by accepting that suffering, the work gives them the courage to take a new step forward.

Released by Sambomaster in August 2018, the track was chosen as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Cheer☆Dan,” and, alongside the story of high school students striving to conquer the United States, left a lasting impression on many viewers.

This piece is also perfect as background music for school sports days and athletic festivals, gently supporting students who give their all and sweat it out together with their friends.

Song Not to Forgetmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu 'Wasurena Uta' MV

A gem of a youth anthem, woven by setting the trajectory of dreams to sound.

Carried by the melody, a fierce will to overcome trials and setbacks strikes the heart.

The smooth melodic lines and the warm resonance born from delicate layers of sound are sure to move anyone.

Released by Macaroni Empitsu in April 2024, this piece was also selected as the ending theme for the TV anime “Oblivion Battery” and is included on the EP “Bokura no Namida Nara Sora ni Ume yo.” The lyrics, which align beautifully with the protagonist’s emotions in the anime, gently embrace the passion of young people who keep challenging their limits.

It’s a song you’ll especially want students immersed in club activities and anyone striving toward a goal to hear.

When daily life wears you down, listening to this track will surely give you the courage to take a new step forward.

Youth DiaryRyukku to soine gohan

Cuddling with My Backpack, Bedside Rice / Youth Diary [Music Video]

An impressive song that beautifully balances the fresh innocence of first love with the bittersweetness of parting.

It’s a track from the album “Seishun Nikki,” released in March 2020 while Ryoku to Soinen Gohan were still in high school, and it’s filled with down-to-earth feelings born from the members’ real experiences.

From small everyday moments to farewells with friends and the courage to take a new step, the delicate emotions of youth are portrayed alongside refreshing guitar sounds.

In March 2023, it was featured in a tie-in with the online learning service Study Sapuri’s video for graduates, “Genzai Chiten.” It’s a song you’ll want to listen to at life’s turning points, such as advancing to higher education or starting a job.

People and PeopleYugeda Kensuke

"Hito to Hito" (Lyrics: Tomohiro Iwai, Music: Kensuke Yugeda, Performance: Toin Gakuen Elementary School) — a choral piece for a music concert

This is a warm piece that sings about the importance of encounters through music.

The fresh melodies woven by Kensuke Yugedate carry a gentle calm while conveying a moving message.

In clear, resonant words, it speaks of the joy born from human connections and the inevitable meaning hidden within chance meetings.

Delivered by the pure voices of the Toin Gakuen Elementary School Choir, the work is also slated to appear in elementary school music textbooks starting in 2024.

Its kind, uplifting message is perfect for children who are about to meet new people in a new environment.

As they take their next step in school life, this wonderful song will give them courage and hope—please give it a listen.

Yo, you there, kid.Takehara Pisutoru

Takahara Pistol – 'Hey, you there, youngster'

A warm, encouraging song whose gentle acoustic guitar and powerful vocals resonate deeply.

Takahashi Pistol offers a track that gifts courage to live and celebrates the small happiness found in everyday life, especially for young people.

It conveys the message of finding your own path, not being swayed by others’ opinions, and striving in a way that is true to yourself.

Included on the album “youth,” it was released in November 2015.

Widely known as the theme song for a Sumitomo Life Insurance commercial, its sincere message has struck a chord with many.

It’s a song recommended for those about to step into a new environment or standing at a crossroads in life.

This work can be called a cherished piece that combines warmth that stays close to the heart with a powerful push from behind.

Because we’re friends.Ochiai Wataru

Wataru Ochiai – Because We’re Friends (Music Video)

This song gently sings about memories and farewells with dear friends, carried by a warm, heartfelt vocal.

Wataru Ochiai’s comforting voice resonates, bringing to mind scenes from school days and moments of parting.

Set to a ballad-style melody, it carefully expresses the importance of friendship and feelings of gratitude, and was released in February 2022.

A simple arrangement centered on piano and acoustic guitar further highlights the emotional depth of the lyrics.

It’s recommended not only for those facing graduation or goodbyes, but also for anyone who wants to fondly recall their school-day friends.

The song has gained buzz on social media and continues to be cherished as an anthem of youth.