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

sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI22rank/position

Sakanaction “Sazanka”

A ballad that portrays the loneliness and anxiety felt in the pursuit of a dream, as well as the warmth of someone watching over you.

SEKAI NO OWARI’s “Sazanka” is a single released in February 2018 and became widely known as the NHK theme song for coverage of the PyeongChang Olympics and Paralympics.

Rather than simply urging listeners to “do your best,” the song is filled with a gentle kindness that seems to affirm every attempt to overcome setbacks and pain.

Anyone chasing a dream may wonder, “Is this really the right path for me?” In those moments, this song will quietly stand by you, saying, “I know how hard you’ve been trying.”

migratory bird[Alexandros]23rank/position

[Alexandros] – Wataridori (MV)

A signature number by [Alexandros], with a driving melody and piercing high-register vocals that stir the listener’s heart.

It was included on a single released in March 2015 and is also known as the theme song for the film “Ake Garasu (Akegarasu).” The lyrics, which depict striving single-mindedly toward dreams and goals like a bird spreading its wings and soaring into the sky, really resonate.

When your mock exam results aren’t great or you feel anxious because you can’t see what lies ahead, the song’s positive energy will give you a push forward.

It’s a track I want exam takers to keep as a good-luck charm—something to listen to when you want to believe in yourself and sprint all the way to the finish.

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO24rank/position

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

A rock number that cheers on our everyday efforts through its weekend heroes.

It was included on the 2017 album “SHISHAMO 4” and became widely known as the CM song for NTT Docomo’s “Docomo Student Discount.” That same year, the band performed it on the NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen for their first-ever appearance, generating major buzz.

The song frankly depicts the strength to keep running forward even when things are so tough you want to cry, along with gratitude for those who support you.

Inspired by watching a Kawasaki Frontale match, it’s also loved as a fight song—perfect for anyone looking to get fired up at sports events or live shows.

It stands as one of the band’s signature classics.

Spot the differenceSuda Masaki25rank/position

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

A captivating song featuring the vocals of Masaki Suda—who is active as both an actor and singer—written and composed by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu.

Released in May 2019, this track was also used as the theme song for the drama “Perfect World,” starring Tori Matsuzaka.

It gently sings about the search for “mistakes” and “answers” in life, and the importance of what we learn from them.

The lyrics convey the joy of spending time with someone you love and the significance of human connections, making it a great choice to listen to as a memorable song for a date.

DREAMIN’ONDa-iCE26rank/position

Da-iCE / <TV Anime “ONE PIECE” Theme Song> “DREAMIN’ ON” Music Video

This song expresses the courage and strong will to pursue one’s dreams.

Released in August 2020, it was selected as the 23rd opening theme for the popular anime ONE PIECE.

As the first installment of Da-iCE’s six-month consecutive release plan, it was created with a focus on the theme of “vision.” The lyrics, written by Sota Hanamura, are notable for their powerful message.

The song celebrates the spirit of adventure in taking on unknown worlds with your friends and the importance of staying true to yourself.

Conveying the value of moving forward without being defeated by adversity, this track is sure to encourage everyone taking on events at sports days and athletic festivals together with their teammates!

StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE27rank/position

Usable for sports day! Mrs. GREEN APPLE “StaRt” easy dance choreography ♪ #SportsDay #PEdance #MrsGreenApple

This is a song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that captured many hearts with its exhilarating pop-rock sound and uplifting message.

It was included on their major-label debut mini-album “Variety,” released in July 2015, and was also featured in a Kao Merit commercial in 2017.

Riding an up-tempo rhythm, the song celebrates the small joys hidden in everyday life and the courage to take on new challenges.

Brimming with youthful performance and a pleasant, positive energy, it’s a perfect track for school festivals or sports day dance routines.

Marigoldaimyon28rank/position

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

Aimyon is popular across all generations.

“Marigold” is also a hit that people in their 50s often sing at karaoke.

I have students of various ages, and many of them sing her other songs too! It seems Aimyon really resonates with everyone, regardless of gender or age.

Also, “Marigold” sits in a comfortable range of F#3 to B4, so it’s an easy song to sing with a melody that’s simple for anyone to pick up.

If you think you’re tone-deaf, you might get nervous when holding the mic, but try not to tense up—sway gently side to side and sing lightly.

It helps you relax, and I recommend it! This can be especially good in karaoke settings with younger people around.

If you say, “Everyone, sing along with me,” you’ll feel even more at ease, so just be natural and enjoy singing!

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Kubota Mami

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