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

Stand by me, Stand by you.Hirai Dai36rank/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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KanadeSukima Suichi37rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This song depicts the parting with someone precious—and the wish to remain connected at heart beyond that farewell—set to a beautiful ballad.

Released by Sukima Switch in March 2004 as their second single, it features a sentimental sound centered on piano and guitar that resonates deeply.

It was used as an insert song in the film “Rough,” as the theme song for the drama “Sotsu Uta,” and in 2006 it was selected as the ending theme for the final day of “Netto Koshien.” It’s a track that, while looking back on days spent with friends, makes you want to cherish those bonds from here on out.

The meaning of goodbyeNogizaka 4638rank/position

Nogizaka46 'The Meaning of Goodbye'

This is a song that gently stays by your side when you graduate from the days of throwing yourself into club activities with everything you had.

It’s a Nogizaka46 track, released in November 2016 as their 16th single, with Nanami Hashimoto as the center.

It carefully portrays the sense of an impending farewell woven into everyday life and the pain of losing time that once felt ordinary.

If you’re carrying the loneliness of parting ways with teammates who shared both joys and hardships, you’ll surely relate—it will make you realize the preciousness and wonder of having met those companions.

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon39rank/position

Shin Takarajima / Sakanaction SIT Band - Sapporo International Information High School Wind Ensemble

This is a lively song brimming with children’s excitement for unknown adventures.

Created by Sakanaction, it was produced in September 2015 as the theme song for the film “Bakuman.” Its retro synthesizer sound and upbeat rhythm are striking, and the production that evokes the late 1980s to early 1990s makes you feel as if you’ve slipped back in time.

Giving you the courage to take a bold step into the future, this track is perfect for a school sports day entrance scene or a dance number! It will fill the venue with a bright mood and put smiles on everyone’s faces.

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO40rank/position

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

A rock number that cheers on our everyday efforts through its weekend heroes.

It was included on the 2017 album “SHISHAMO 4” and became widely known as the CM song for NTT Docomo’s “Docomo Student Discount.” That same year, the band performed it on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen for their first-ever appearance, generating major buzz.

The song frankly depicts the strength to keep running forward even when things are so tough you want to cry, along with gratitude for those who support you.

Inspired by watching a Kawasaki Frontale match, it’s also loved as a fight song—perfect for anyone looking to get fired up at sports events or live shows.

It stands as one of the band’s signature classics.

GIFTMr.Children41rank/position

Mr.Children「GIFT」Music Video(Short ver.)

“GIFT,” the 32nd single released in 2008 by Mr.Children, a nationally beloved band.

The song was also used as NHK’s theme for the Beijing Olympics held that year.

Many fans span two generations—parent and child—which shows just how widely loved the band is across age groups.

This track is sure to liven up any karaoke session regardless of age or gender.

Its lyrics are deeply moving, making it a song that is sure to touch the hearts of those who listen.

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Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN42rank/position

I tried dancing 'Sugar Song and Bitter Step' in front of the Eiffel Tower

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN is a rock band known for their powerful vocals and high-level musicianship.

Their 2015 release “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is a danceable track packed with vibrant charm.

The lively guitar tones in the intro make you want to step along.

Its refreshing melody line, carried by a rhythmic tempo, will resonate with you.

Whether you go for technical choreography or arrange it for beginners, this uptempo song will liven up any school or cultural festival!

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