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

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon36rank/position

Shin Takarajima / Sakanaction SIT Band - Sapporo International Information High School Wind Ensemble

This lively song is brimming with the excitement of children embarking on unknown adventures.

Created by Sakanaction, it was produced in September 2015 as the theme song for the film Bakuman.

Its retro synthesizer tones and brisk beat are striking, evoking the sound of the late 1980s to early 1990s and making you feel as if you’ve time-traveled.

Giving you the courage to take a bold step toward the future, this track is perfect for a sports day entrance scene! It fills the entire venue with a bright mood and is a song that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.

HAPPY BIRTHDAYback number37rank/position

back number – HAPPY BIRTHDAY (full)

A gem of a love song that delicately captures the bittersweetness of unrequited love through the once-a-year special day of a birthday.

The loneliness of not receiving a “Happy Birthday” from the one you like, and the hope that today you’ll finally find the courage to confess your feelings, press upon the heart alongside a beautiful melody.

back number’s February 2019 single was selected as the theme song for the TBS drama “A Story to Read When You First Fall in Love,” produced by Takeshi Kobayashi.

It’s also perfect for those looking for a track to use as BGM at a dear friend’s birthday party or in a surprise video.

When you want to convey your feelings through music, this is a song you’ll want to keep close to your heart.

The BeginningONE OK ROCK38rank/position

ONE OK ROCK – The Beginning [Official Music Video]

This song delivers a deeply moving experience, with powerhouse vocals and a band sound so compelling it gives you goosebumps.

It captures the determination of those taking a new step forward and carries a message that pushes you from behind, radiating a power that resonates more with every listen.

Released in August 2012, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Rurouni Kenshin, and through its synergy with the movie, it captured the hearts of a wide audience, reaching No.

5 on the Oricon charts.

Perfect as BGM for time trials or relay events, this track offers a refreshing sense of speed and the courage to take on challenges—be sure to experience it.

bouquetback number39rank/position

back number – Bouquet (Short ver.)

The perfect song for expressing sincere love to a cherished partner is Hanataba.

It was released in 2011 by the rock band back number, known for their popular songs depicting all kinds of romance.

The lyrics portray two people whose budding love is just beginning, wishing it will last forever.

The simple yet passionate performance characteristic of a three-piece band conveys their straightforward feelings.

It’s an emotional ballad that paints a fresh, youthful love story.

Why not spend this season of love accompanied by Iyori Shimizu’s bittersweet yet warm vocals?

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mutō

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Silent majorityKeyakizaka4640rank/position

Keyakizaka46 'Silent Majority'

Keyakizaka46’s debut single, released in 2016.

“Silent Majority” refers to the quiet masses—the unspoken majority—meaning ordinary people who don’t actively voice their opinions.

The lyrics convey that if you don’t speak up yourself, nothing will be communicated to those around you, and the strong, message-driven nature of the song—distinct from typical idol music—became a hot topic.

It’s a powerful encouragement song that makes you feel, to live as your true self, don’t give up—stay true to your own will.

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hiyori

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Only for you, clear skiesYorushika41rank/position

Yorushika – Just Clear Skies for You (MUSIC VIDEO)

This is one of Yorushika’s signature songs, released in 2018.

It’s a bittersweet pop track themed around summer, youth, love, and parting.

The overall vocal range is relatively narrow at D4–D#5, so it’s highly recommended for singers who find higher notes easier than lower ones.

In the verses (A and B sections), it’s more spoken than sung, and the spacing between phrases is a key point.

The solid band arrangement makes it easy to lock into the groove, so you’ll likely feel your energy rise in the chorus.

Listen closely to the drums and be careful not to rush the tempo.

In the last chorus, the key changes and the pitch goes even higher, so try to sing with extra drive and momentum.

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Kubota Mami

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DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE42rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video

An encouraging anthem that gently stays by your side and gives you a push forward, dedicated to everyone who feels anxiety and uncertainty in the midst of youth.

With Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s signature emotional, catchy melodies and lyrics rich with messages that boost self-esteem, it resonates deeply.

Released in January 2025, the song was written for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.

GREEN APPLE 18-sai Matsuri” and featured a special performance alongside 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation.

Play it as the finale of a sports day or school athletic festival, and you’re sure to end on a moving, memorable note!