High School Students’ Favorite Bands Ranking [2026]

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE1rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Blue and Summer

An exhilarating rock number that epitomizes summer with an irresistible, piercing sense of refreshment.

In this track by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, seasonal scenes like wind chimes and sunflowers are painted while conveying a fiery message: don’t wait for the story to come to you—be the protagonist and dash through the present.

Released as a single in August 2018, it was written as the theme song for the film “Aonatsu: 30 Days of Love.” It has since taken root as a Koshien stadium cheer song, encouraging countless high school ballplayers and students.

It’s perfect not only as a pump-up work BGM, but also for blowing away a downcast mood.

horizonback number2rank/position

back number – Horizon

A gem of a track by back number that gently stays close to your heart whenever you hit a wall in life.

Even amid the despair that feels like your dreams and hopes are collapsing, the lyrics portray the journey of looking inward and eventually finding light—sure to move you deeply.

This song is also known for being created in August 2020 for high school students after the Inter-High Championships were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While affirming frustration and sorrow, it gives a sense of the view that awaits beyond overcoming them.

As you step into a new world at graduation, you may feel anxiety or loneliness.

In those moments, this song will wrap your pain in its embrace and give you the quiet courage to take that first step.

It’s not me unless it’s meGesu no Kiwami Otome.3rank/position

Gesu no Kiwami Otome “Watashi Igai Watashi Janai no”

A four-piece rock band that builds songs based on progressive rock and hip-hop through each member’s outstanding musicianship, Gesu no Kiwami Otome’s second single showcases plenty to enjoy: a two-phase intro and jaw-dropping performances woven into an otherwise accessible track.

Each part is technically demanding, so band practice is essential to play it together, but its catchy, upbeat vibe makes it a great pick for school and cultural festivals.

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Hoshino Takashi

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PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism4rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]

A four-piece piano rock band that has taken Japan’s music scene by storm with their sharp pop sensibility and performance chops, Official HIGE DANDism’s second single.

Although it was released in 2019, its explosive popularity makes it a song that practically everyone in Japan has heard.

It opens with an unforgettable guitar arpeggio, followed by a pop, catchy melody that really hits home.

Since it’s an extremely famous track, it’s a number that any band with a keyboard player should definitely try.

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Hoshino Takashi

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CorrectRADWIMPS5rank/position

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

It’s a warm number that feels like it cheers you on as you set off on a journey to find yourself and your future.

The beautiful piano melodies and band sound crafted by RADWIMPS, layered with a grand choral arrangement by students, are truly moving.

The theme of finding your own answers at your own pace—rather than following a path set by others—perfectly suits those living through their youth.

Sparked by a performance at “18-sai-sai,” an event created together with 18-year-olds, this work was released as a CD in February 2024.

It gently gives a push to those who, while carrying bonds with friends and their own struggles, are trying to move forward.

It’s a perfect choice for moments when the whole school comes together, like at cultural festivals and school festivals!

Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN6rank/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 overwhelming vocals and high-level musicianship.

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

The moment you hear the light, upbeat guitar in the intro, you can’t help but want to start stepping.

The refreshing melody line that unfolds with a rhythmic tempo also resonates with the heart.

It’s an uptempo tune that works both with technical choreography and beginner-friendly arrangements—perfect for livening up culture festivals and school festivals!

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mutō

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together; along with; bothWANIMA7rank/position

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

This song, which celebrates friendship, hope, and the strength to overcome hardship, fills listeners with energy and courage.

WANIMA’s exhilarating, fast-paced sound and positive message stand by those who continue to face challenges, serving as a powerful support.

Released in August 2016 as the theme song for Nivea Kao’s “8×4” commercial, it also carries the members’ deep love for their hometown of Kumamoto and their hopes for its recovery.

Included on the album “Are You Coming?”, the track was also performed at the 2017 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

With its strong message, the song brings the perfect blend of excitement and refreshment for a school sports day’s exit scene.

It is expected to heighten the sense of unity in the venue, along with the children’s feelings of accomplishment and emotion after giving their all in competition.