[High School Students] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]

CHEER UPTwice92rank/position

TWICE “CHEER UP” M/V

TWICE, the most popular female K-pop artist group, boasts top-tier talent in singing, dancing, and visuals.

CHEER UP is the lead single from their second mini-album, PAGE TWO, released in 2016.

The song cutely expresses the irritation and frustration that come from romantic dilemmas, and its hit success helped TWICE become widely recognized.

With its overall poppy vibe—featuring cute vocals throughout—the track would likely hype up events like obstacle races, where flustered moments come across as humorous.

A bouquet of flowers with loveSuperfly93rank/position

Superfly “A Bouquet With Love” Music Video

A classic go-to song for weddings and birthdays, “Ai wo Komete Hanataba wo”! Released in 2008, it’s one of Superfly’s signature tracks and was used as the theme song for the drama “Edison no Haha” (Edison’s Mother).

The lyrics, which convey “gratitude” and “love,” have moved many people.

If you’re giving a bouquet to your beloved on their birthday, why not use this song as the BGM to create a touching moment? It’s also a great choice as background music for a heartfelt letter or a message video.

Happy tears are guaranteed!

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sasashina

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Wasted NightsONE OK ROCK94rank/position

ONE OK ROCK: Wasted Nights [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

This song by ONE OK ROCK, a rock band hugely popular not only in Japan but around the world, was used as the theme song for the film “Kingdom,” so many of you may already be familiar with it.

The composition is so grand that it could be mistaken for a Western band’s song, and that alone is moving.

The lyrics, which sing about a stance of continuous challenge, overlap with the parts of ourselves who have kept putting in effort, and the more you’ve tried, the more this song will resonate in your heart.

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Hane Keisuke

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RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION95rank/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!

Love and romanceNovelbright96rank/position

Novelbright – Love and Romance [Official Music Video]

Novelbright’s heartwarming love song is attracting attention.

With lyrics overflowing with feelings for a lover and a refreshing melody, it’s a captivating track that resonates with listeners.

Released digitally in April 2022, it was later included on the album “Assort.” Centered on pop rock, the song is notable for its clear, expansive vocals.

It carefully depicts the deep affection one feels for a partner in everyday life and the inner changes brought about by their presence.

It’s a song that lifts your spirits—even on a dreary Monday, just thinking of your loved one makes your heart leap—and fills you with a positive outlook.

It’s moving in the way it celebrates the feeling of being in love.

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN97rank/position

GReeeeN – Michi (Road/Path)

A classic GReeeeN song to listen to when you hit a wall with daily studies or club activities and feel like giving up.

Released in January 2007, it was their memorable debut single and was featured widely in the media, including as the opening theme for CDTV.

The lyrics convey a message of believing in yourself and moving forward no matter the difficulties, offering comfort and courage to listeners.

It’s loved by top athletes as well—pitcher Yu Darvish has said it supported him.

In 2017, it was used in a SUBARU commercial, drawing renewed attention a decade after its release.

When you feel uncertain about the path you’ve chosen, this is a cheer song that gently nudges you forward.

Horse and deerYonezu Kenshi98rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Horse and Deer

A heartwarming song by Kenshi Yonezu that gives a boost to the spirit of doing your best at sports days and athletic festivals.

It’s included on the acclaimed album STRAY SHEEP, released in August 2020.

The lyrics, which use the metaphor of a horse and a deer to portray the importance of holding on to sincere feelings even when you’re awkward, leave a strong impression.

Created amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the piece reflects Yonezu’s search for his role in a chaotic situation.

Singing of a resilient heart that strives to rise even when it’s on the verge of breaking, this song will gently encourage everyone working hard in practice and on the big day.