High School Students’ Favorite Bands Ranking [2026]

catDISH//22rank/position

DISH// – Cat [Official Live Video 2019]

This is a gentle, lyrical song that symbolizes the bittersweet feelings for someone you’ve parted ways with through an elusive cat.

Written and composed by Aimyon, and brought to life by DISH//’s expressive performance, it has become a masterpiece that leaves a deep resonance.

The song was used as an insert song in TV Tokyo’s Drama 25 “Neko,” which aired from October 2020, and was included on the album “X” released in February 2021.

Wrapped in a tender acoustic sound, this track is perfect for showcasing your vocal skills at a karaoke contest.

Try expressing both the ache and the warmth with a richly nuanced, dynamic vocal delivery.

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon23rank/position

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

This lively song is brimming with the excitement of children embarking on unknown adventures.

Created by Sakanaction, it was produced in September 2015 as the theme song for the film Bakuman.

Its retro synthesizer tones and brisk beat are striking, evoking the sound of the late 1980s to early 1990s and making you feel as if you’ve time-traveled.

Giving you the courage to take a bold step toward the future, this track is perfect for a sports day entrance scene! It fills the entire venue with a bright mood and is a song that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.

YELLikimonogakari24rank/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.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION25rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite” (M-1 Grand Prix 2024 Promotion Video Theme Song)

A searing, emotional masterpiece that grabs high schoolers’ hearts and never lets go! Its grand melody and exhilarating, driving guitar sound will fill the entire school festival venue with excitement.

The lyrics portray real, down-to-earth youth who question their own purpose, face failure, and keep moving forward—sure to stir your soul.

Released by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION in August 2004, this song was chosen as the opening theme for the popular anime Fullmetal Alchemist.

It’s a classic that begs to be performed live, uniting the whole crowd in a frenzy.

Highly recommended even for those just starting out with band performances!

silhouetteKANA-BOON26rank/position

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

How about a masterpiece whose driving guitar riffs and powerful band sound strike straight to the heart? It’s a single released in November 2014 by KANA-BOON, a rock band formed in Osaka.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Naruto Shippuden, it sparked major buzz both in Japan and abroad.

This work conveys a resolve to move forward while recognizing that past experiences and encounters shape who we are today, holding what’s precious close to our hearts.

Vocalist Maguro Taniguchi’s emotional voice powerfully encourages students who put in daily effort toward their big moment.

It’s the perfect cheer song for heated events like relays and pep rallies!

March 9Remioromen27rank/position

[Choral Song] March 9th / With Lyrics [73/200]

When it comes to iconic songs that accompany the season of graduations and new beginnings, Remioromen’s “March 9” comes to mind.

Released as a single in 2004, it was also featured as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears.” Although it was originally written for a member’s friend’s wedding, its lyrics warmly depict the changing seasons and the bonds with loved ones, touching many hearts and earning it a long-standing place as a classic graduation song.

Its straightforward, unembellished band sound and gently embracing melody make it easy to sing as an elementary school chorus piece, perfect for expressing gratitude to friends and teachers.

It’s a highly recommended song for spring choral performances, one you’ll want to let ring out with a pure, clear voice.

Maidens.CHiCO with HoneyWorks28rank/position

Maidens, oh you maidens. / CHiCO with HoneyWorks

CHiCO with HoneyWorks began as a music unit from Nico Nico Douga and have since made their major-label debut.

Their 2019 release “Otome-domo yo” became popular among high school students, partly because it was the opening theme for the TV anime “O Maidens in Your Savage Season.” Its appeal lies in its catchy sound and melody that seem mindful of J-pop traditions.

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Saitō Ayumu

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