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.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

CorrectRADWIMPS4rank/position

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

A gentle anthem of support that blends the bittersweetness and hope of youth.

It portrays, with a warm gaze, the feelings of young people searching for answers of their own.

Its message—that there is no single right answer in life and it’s okay to move forward at your own pace—will surely touch everyone’s heart.

Released digitally in January 2024 by RADWIMPS, this song has often been sung at school graduation ceremonies and in scenes of remembrance.

When you feel anxious about the future or find yourself at a crossroads in life, this warm, comforting track will softly nudge you forward.

Please, take the courage from this song to help you step into a new beginning.

PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism5rank/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.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

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!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

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.