Top Girl Bands and Popular Songs for School Cultural Festivals: Rankings [2026]

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO1rank/position

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

A song that captures the feelings of someone who, despite weekday fatigue, keeps pushing forward for the “hero” they can meet on the weekend.

It’s a track from SHISHAMO’s album “SHISHAMO 4,” released in February 2017, and was featured in NTT Docomo’s “Docomo no Gakuwari” commercial, as well as performed at the 68th NHK Kouhaku Uta Gassen.

Widely known as an anthem for young people, it is also beloved as a cheer song for Kawasaki Frontale.

Offering the courage to keep moving toward tomorrow even in tough times, this youth anthem is perfect for those who have someone they want to support and for people who want to share moving moments with hard-working friends.

Dear, boyHump Back2rank/position

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

An uplifting anthem whose passionate cheer for those who keep chasing their dreams resonates in the heart! Formed in a high school light music club, Hump Back delivers a rock number that stands by everyone facing setbacks and anxieties.

It powerfully depicts the protagonist as they converse with themselves and their cherished friends, striving to move forward without giving up on their dreams.

Released as their major-label debut in June 2018, it was featured as the ending theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02” and as a commercial song for Shinken Zemi’s High School Course.

This piece is perfect for a school festival live show! Performing it together with friends who share the same dreams will unite the entire venue in an emotional, unforgettable experience.

Shunkan SentimentalSCANDAL3rank/position

SCANDAL “Shunkan Sentimental” / Shunkan Sentimental – Music Video

A song by SCANDAL, a four-member girls’ rock band whose members were mostly high school students at the time of their debut.

When the song was released, they performed in school uniforms, making it a perfect number to play at a school festival.

It’s also well-known thanks to being used as an ending theme for the anime Fullmetal Alchemist, and from a performance standpoint it’s easy to cover since the guitar parts are mainly played with power chords.

With its sense of speed, it’s a sure-fire number to get the crowd going at a school festival.

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Hoshino Takashi

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OH！SHISHAMO4rank/position

SHISHAMO「OH！」

SHISHAMO is a girls’ band that enjoys overwhelming popularity, especially among young people.

Not only do they appear at major festivals across the country, but they’re also hugely popular in living rooms nationwide thanks to their commercial songs! What makes them so appealing are their lyrics filled with straightforward, pure messages and their clean, refreshing sound.

This song, of course, embodies those charms as well.

It’s a track that gives you a push, saying, “It’s okay to be reckless—just do your best!!,” and you can’t help but feel the spirit of youth in it.

It’s a piece we’d especially love for students to perform.

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Hane Keisuke

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Shangri-LaChatto Monchī5rank/position

Chatmonchy “Shangri-La” Music Video

This is Chatmonchy’s third single, used as the ending theme for the TV anime Hataraki Man.

While it’s a straightforward rock number, the irregular meter in the chorus serves as a hook.

None of the parts are technically difficult, but the bass line—though mostly root notes—features frequent moves up to the high frets that create the song’s groove, so playing it accurately helps capture the overall feel.

With its catchy melody and comfortable beat, it’s a number that would likely go over well when performed at school festivals or cultural events.

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Hoshino Takashi

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DOLLSCANDAL6rank/position

SCANDAL 「DOLL」 ‐Music Video

This track by SCANDAL is a rock number that captures a yearning for freedom and a pure desire for love.

Despite their cute looks, they drew attention as a high school girl band delivering gritty garage rock.

Released in October 2008 as their major-label debut single, it peaked at No.

26 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

With heavy radio airplay nationwide, it sparked a big reaction.

If you’re forming a band for a school festival, this is definitely a song you should perform.

It will surely convey your feelings to the audience.

With its youthful, energetic sound and relatable lyrics, it’s guaranteed to get the crowd going!

Hana no YumeChatto Monchī7rank/position

Chatmonchy 'Hana no Yume' Music Video

“Hana no Yume” features lyrics where wistfulness and hope coexist, leaving a strong impression.

It’s a song that gently accompanies the listener’s heart through familiar pains and a sense of loss.

With Chatmonchy’s characteristic delicate emotional expression and beautiful melodies, it deeply moves those who listen.

Included on the mini-album “chatmonchy has come.” Its relaxed tempo and simple chord progression make it a great recommendation for beginner bands.

Take your time to savor the lyrics, overflowing with a unique worldview.