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

Because I’ve always loved you.neguse.92rank/position

Neguse. “Because I’ve Always Loved You” Official Music Video

A straight-shooting cheer song from Neguse, the Nagoya-born rock band whose motto is “smiles”! Its message, delivering the value of “keeping at it” head-on, slowly seeps into a tired heart.

The structure—unfolding from Ryotachi’s rhythmic rap to a soaring sing-along chorus—gives listeners a powerful push forward.

Released for streaming in June 2024, it’s also included on the EP “Ai to Ai no Fight!” Chosen as a summer high school baseball cheer song and the theme for “Netto Koshien,” it even became the melody played at Koshien Station—a hot topic indeed.

Give it a listen especially when the May blues sap your motivation.

It’ll remind you of that fiery feeling: you can give it your all because you love it!

Sakura, Bloom!arashi93rank/position

[+81 DANCE STUDIO] Arashi – Sakura Sake / Performed by Travis Japan

As a recommended song for high school students working hard every day to prepare for entrance exams, you can’t leave out this one by the hugely popular Johnny’s group Arashi.

Many exam-takers are studying diligently to achieve the paths they’ve set their sights on by the cherry blossom season in spring, and the lyrics of this song are packed with words that can really support your heart at times like that.

On top of that, the refreshing melody is memorable, and listening to this track might help you relax and focus on your studies.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts94rank/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 SankaAimer95rank/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.

KICKBACKYonezu Kenshi96rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – KICKBACK

Kenshi Yonezu, a singer-songwriter who also has a persona as a Vocaloid producer and continues to expand the musical possibilities of the J-pop scene.

The track released in November 2022, used as the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, drew major attention for featuring Daiki Tsuneta of King Gnu on arrangement.

With its drum’n’bass-driven, intense beat and whirlwind progression, the sound feels like a roller coaster that sweeps listeners along, deeply linking with the work’s frenzied worldview.

The lyrics, infused with the protagonist’s somewhat nihilistic and self-destructive desire for happiness and good fortune, strike a powerful impulse into the listener’s heart.

It’s an aggressive, cool rock tune that blasts away the boredom of everyday life and lifts your mood to the max.

Love SongGReeeeN97rank/position

GReeeeN – Love Song

This is the third single by GReeeeN, a four-member vocal group known for balancing careers as dentists with their music and for their trademark style of not revealing their faces.

It’s the group’s first love song, and its many tie-ins with music shows, variety programs, and commercials attest to its popularity.

The lyrics, which express pure feelings, align with the straightforward emotions unique to high school students and are sure to resonate.

It’s a gem of a love song that we hope you’ll listen to together with your special someone.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

AgainWANIMA98rank/position

WANIMA “Again” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A rock tune by WANIMA that sings of a strong will to move forward again while overcoming setbacks and failures.

It captures the realization that past experiences shape who we are now, and the determination to take a new step with the courage to stand up again and again.

Released in March 2019 on their 4th single “Good Job!!,” the song also drew attention as the theme for the TBS drama “Maison de Police.” It’s a motivational anthem that gently supports not only athletes but everyone striving toward their dreams and goals.