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

Wasted NightsONE OK ROCK91rank/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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Love and romanceNovelbright92rank/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.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION93rank/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!

road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)GReeeeN94rank/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.

ultramarineYOASOBI95rank/position

YOASOBI “Gunjou” Official Music Video

Inspired by the manga Blue Period, this piece portrays a fervent passion for immersing yourself in what you love.

It’s a track released digitally in September 2020 by YOASOBI, a unit that turns novels into music, and it’s also known as the song from the Bourbon Alfort Mini Chocolate commercial.

The song is included on their first EP, THE BOOK, released in 2021, and ikura’s clear vocals together with the exhilarating sound really resonate.

The chorus features a group-singing part, so even if you’re not confident singing alone, you can have a blast with friends! Even in sections with sustained high notes, it’s nothing to fear when everyone raises their voices together.

How about enjoying it at karaoke after club activities or after school, feeling the bond with your friends as you sing?