[High School Students] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation]

Spring ThiefYorushika85rank/position

Yorushika – Spring Thief (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

For high school students, you can’t skip Yorushika’s songs, right? This song, “Haru Dorobou” (Spring Thief), is included on Yorushika’s first EP “Sousaku,” released in 2021.

It was also used in a commercial, so you probably heard it often.

It’s a song about the sights and feelings of spring that instantly puts you in a spring mood—a refreshing number that makes you feel as if you can see cherry blossoms in full bloom behind your eyelids when you close your eyes.

But it’s not just about the gentle, refreshing side of spring; it’s filled with thoughts and a sense of poignancy inspired by the falling petals.

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utatane

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Team friendsChiba Yūki86rank/position

Yūki Chiba – Team Tomodachi (Official Music Video)

I think today’s middle school students are closer to hip-hop than any generation before them.

Among them, many middle school heads are probably listening to trap music, which leads the times.

What I recommend is Team Tomodachi.

This track is a hit number by Yuki Chiba, aka KOHH, that gained worldwide popularity.

It’s laid back in trap style, so the flow is very simple.

Even those not used to rapping should have no problem performing it.

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Ryo

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Let’s give it a tryWANIMA87rank/position

Yattemiyou

An energetic track that covers a nursery rhyme everyone’s heard at least once, given a bold rock arrangement in true WANIMA style.

Even when you’re feeling sluggish before starting to study, the song’s exhilarating drive will naturally boost your motivation.

Its positive message—urging you to try first without fearing failure—will give powerful encouragement to anyone tackling entrance exams or test prep.

Released as a digital single in January 2017, it also created a buzz as the theme song for au’s “Santaro” commercial series.

Give it a listen when you want to face your weaker subjects with a positive mindset.

parabolaOfisharu Higedan Dism88rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Parabola [Official Video]

Official HIGE DANDism is a four-member rock band.

The vocalist Satoshi Fujihara’s soothing high-tone voice and approachable melodies are especially striking.

While songs like “Pretender” and “I LOVE…” may give them a strong image as love song artists, “Parabola” is a perfect cheer song for starting a new chapter in life.

It was also featured in a Calpis Water commercial, and its lyrics—seeking hope in an uncertain future—seem to gently light a lamp in hearts that feel crushed by anxiety.

Take note of the lyrics, which are poetically beautiful yet strikingly real.

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Because I’ve always loved you.neguse.89rank/position

Neguse. “Because I’ve Always Loved You” [2024 Summer High School Baseball Cheer Song / “Netto Koshien” Theme Song]

Written as the theme song for summer high school baseball, Neguse’s track powerfully captures the energy and passion of youth.

Centered on the theme of “the value of keeping going,” it portrays high school baseball players who continue moving forward even when faced with adversity.

Released digitally on June 7, 2024, it is slated to air during high school baseball broadcasts throughout the tournament period.

With distinctive rap and choral sections, the song’s uplifting tone leaves a strong impression.

It’s a recommended listen not only for high school students, but also for those who want to cheer on players aiming for Koshien, or anyone looking to revisit the fiery memories of their youth.

Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts90rank/position

Creepy Nuts “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” × TV Anime “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES” Collaboration Music Video #BBBB Dance

Created by Creepy Nuts as the opening theme for season 2 of the anime “Mashle: Magic and Muscles,” which follows a protagonist who can’t use magic and aims for the top with pure muscle in a world where magic is the norm, this track was released in January 2024.

The jersey-club-inspired production by DJ Matsunaga and spell-like lyrics by R-Shitei fuse to create an addictive sound that sticks in your head after just one listen.

The lyrics intertwine Mash’s conviction to fight with raw strength and R-Shitei’s own experiences and philosophy, expressing a strength that transcends common sense and a rapper’s pride.

With the “BBBB Dance” trending globally on TikTok and the song topping Billboard Japan’s 2024 year-end Hot 100, it’s a perfect track to hype up a karaoke session with friends.

Zankyo SankaAimer91rank/position

Aimer「Zankyosanka」MUSIC VIDEO（Demon Slayer:Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc Theme Song）

A work whose appeal lies in the grand worldview woven by its visuals and music.

The powerful message in the lyrics—“overcoming past pain and moving toward the future”—harmonizes beautifully with the dark, epic melody.

Aimer’s distinctive vocals resonate with deep emotion and stir the heart.

It was pre-released digitally in December 2021, followed by a CD single in January 2022.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc, it drew major attention, including topping two categories on Billboard Japan after its digital release.

It’s perfect when you need the courage to pursue your ideals or to fire yourself up.

Listen to this while training, and you’ll feel the strength to push past your limits.