Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-Pop Artists Among High School Students [2026]

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN29rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

Released in March 2001, this BUMP OF CHICKEN song was also used as an insert track for the drama “Tentaikansoku” (Stargazing).

The image of the protagonist gazing up at the starry sky while reflecting on their future and relationships is striking.

The lyrics capture the drive to chase dreams and the struggle with reality, resonating deeply with listeners.

It’s a song we especially recommend to those facing worries and uncertainties in their youth.

Listen to it while looking up at the night sky, and you’re sure to find courage.

YELLikimonogakari30rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

An emotionally moving number by Ikimono-gakari, cherished as a staple graduation song.

Its lyrics don’t treat parting as something merely sad, but as a new beginning toward each person’s dreams—words that are sure to bring tears to your eyes.

Even while burdened by anxiety and inner conflict about the future—like having wings but being unable to fly—the image of confronting one’s own weakness and moving forward into tomorrow stirs everyone’s heart.

Released in September 2009 as a double A-side single alongside the bright, poppy “Joyful,” the song was also selected as a required piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition.

Though gentle in tone, this powerful track resonates deeply, encouraging those taking a new step forward with the bonds of their friends in their hearts.

We againSG31rank/position

Us, Again – SG (Official Lyric Video)

During the season of graduation and choosing future paths, SG’s song is one that gently supports high school students who feel anxious.

It captures the preciousness of ordinary days spent with friends, the resolve to pursue our own paths, and the hope of meeting again.

Listening to it gives you the courage to feel, “Even if we’re apart, I’m not alone.” Released in April 2021, the song resonated on social media, and it drew attention again when a brass band version was featured from November 2024 in Calorie Mate’s exam-support commercial.

It’s a warm song that reminds us that parting isn’t an ending, but the start of what comes next.

It doesn’t meltmakaroni enpitsu32rank/position

Macaroni Enpitsu “Tokenai” MV

At first glance, the lyrics might make this song seem like a love tune, but it’s actually a coming-of-age anthem about friendship that really hits you in the heart.

The catchy melody line creates a familiar, comfortable vibe.

At the same time, there’s a tricky development mid-song where the tone shifts and a funky section appears, showcasing Macaroni Enpitsu’s impressive range.

The lyrics are excellent, so I recommend listening carefully while reading them multiple times.

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Hane Keisuke

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proofflumpool33rank/position

flumpool “Akashi (A Spring Breath ver.)” ‘ROOF PLAN ~Acoustic in Billboard Live~’ 2021.12.31 Billboard Live

It seems this was the set piece for the 2011 (78th) NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, Junior High Division! The vocal range is quite wide, from A2 to C5.

The falsetto parts appear in the chorus.

The melody line is easy to follow, building nicely through a verse (A), pre-chorus (B), chorus, and final chorus.

First, the A section sits quite low, so be careful not to overuse your throat there.

If you watch choirs or singers’ facial expressions, you’ll notice their eyebrows and facial muscles are lifted quite a bit.

Simply lifting your facial muscles like this helps open the throat and makes singing a bit easier.

It also helps you transition smoothly from chest voice to falsetto.

In addition, make sure to fully support and release your breath on the high falsetto notes.

Aiming your voice straight up toward the top of your head makes falsetto easier to produce.

With just a small shift in awareness, the song becomes much easier to sing—give it a try!

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Kubota Mami

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Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA34rank/position

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

It features a powerful rock sound and LiSA’s clear, crystalline vocals.

The lyrics portray the courage to face hardship and find hope amid battle, filled with a positive message that even elementary school students can relate to.

With a simple, easy-to-remember melody line and lyrics that express emotion straightforwardly, it’s beloved as a karaoke staple.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba from April 2019, it was also performed spectacularly at NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen in December 2020.

Its singable vocal range and simple melody make it perfect for music classes and school events.

It’s also recommended for when you want to get excited with friends at karaoke or sing together with everyone.

Stand by me, Stand by you.Hirai Dai35rank/position

Hirai Dai / Stand by me, Stand by you. (Lyric Video)

This song, Dai Hirai’s “Stand by me, Stand by you.”, is well-known on TikTok for cover videos and couple videos.

It’s a track overflowing with that sweet, “this is happiness!” feeling, and listening to it while thinking of your boyfriend or girlfriend will likely warm your heart.

While it’s a happy mutual-love song, it might also be nice for those with a crush to imagine a joyful future.

It’s a song I’d recommend to anyone in love.

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utatane

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