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

fireworks (launched into the sky)Yonezu Kenshi50rank/position

[BOOTLEG] Uchiage Hanabi Kenshi Yonezu

Regarding the duet song Uchiage Hanabi with DAOKO, this time I’ll introduce Kenshi Yonezu’s solo version! The overall vocal range sits at a relatively calm C3–A4, showcasing Yonezu’s characteristically gentle, tender tone throughout.

In fact, pitch tends to become less stable in the lower notes than the higher ones, so it’s important to pay close attention to the very beginning of each phrase.

If your breathing is shallow, it becomes harder to produce sound, so focus on taking deep breaths.

To nail the pitch, it also helps to lift your facial muscles.

Rather than lifting them while singing, raise them as you inhale and keep them engaged as you phonate.

Since the song is relaxed, there’s ample time for breaths, so don’t forget to take one each time.

Also, because it sits in the midrange, make sure to project your voice forward so it doesn’t get muffled!

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Kubota Mami

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Bridge of Gloryyuzu51rank/position

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

An enduring masterpiece by Yuzu, the folk duo that represents Japan.

It embraces all the pain and setbacks of the past, the days of effort piled up without running away, and makes you feel proud of who you are now.

That warm yet powerful message resonates deeply with anyone striving forward.

Released as a single in July 2004, it was used as the theme song for NHK’s broadcast of the Athens Olympics.

Many will remember it alongside the moving scene of the men’s gymnastics team winning gold for the first time in 28 years.

Give it a listen when your club activities aren’t yielding the results you want, or when exam pressure feels overwhelming.

You’ll find the courage to believe that none of your steps so far have been in vain—and to keep moving forward.

March 9Remioromen52rank/position

Remioromen – March 9

A song marked by lyrics full of kindness and a memorable melody.

Created to celebrate a member’s friend’s wedding, it gently portrays moments that evoke the changing seasons and feelings of gratitude toward loved ones.

The transition from a calm tone to a soaring chorus showcases Remioromen’s signature delicacy of expression.

Released in March 2004, the song drew wide attention as an insert track in the Fuji TV drama “1 Litre of Tears.” It’s a moving piece often performed at important gatherings—such as choirs and graduation ceremonies—where people come together.

RPGSEKAI NO OWARI53rank/position

SEKAI NO OWARI「RPG」

SEKAI NO OWARI’s “RPG,” perfect for a closing ceremony, has a good tempo and is also recommended for the exit march.

It’s a song that will let you feel fulfilled and accomplished after taking part in the sports day with your classmates and having fun together.

In the end, the entire venue will surely become one, with everyone holding hands for a moving moment.

The powerful vocals and the band’s performance make it a song that sends encouragement to children stepping into the future.

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mayumi

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We AreONE OK ROCK54rank/position

ONE OK ROCK: We Are [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

With its powerful message and hope-filled lyrics, this song stirs the hearts of young people.

While grappling with struggles against societal judgment and prejudice, it conveys a strong will to cherish one’s true self and keep moving forward.

Included on the album “Ambitions,” it has received high acclaim since its release in January 2017.

On NHK’s “18 Festival,” ONE OK ROCK and 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation created a once-in-a-lifetime stage, producing a moving moment.

Paired with a group gymnastics performance, it can express the importance of teamwork and the determination to take on a shared goal.

It doesn’t meltmakaroni enpitsu55rank/position

Macaroni Enpitsu “Tokenai” MV

At first glance, the lyrics might make this song seem like a love tune, but it’s actually a coming-of-age anthem about friendship that really hits you in the heart.

The catchy melody line creates a familiar, comfortable vibe.

At the same time, there’s a tricky development mid-song where the tone shifts and a funky section appears, showcasing Macaroni Enpitsu’s impressive range.

The lyrics are excellent, so I recommend listening carefully while reading them multiple times.

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Hane Keisuke

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LemonYonezu Kenshi56rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Lemon

This song powerfully sings of a bittersweet love.

Released in February 2018 as the theme for TBS’s Friday drama “Unnatural,” it received the fastest-ever certification of one million downloads from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

The lyrics, which honor a deep love for someone lost and the light that person brought to one’s life, strike a chord.

Kenshi Yonezu’s wistful melody stirs the listener’s emotions.

For male high school students looking to showcase their appeal at karaoke, this is a must-add to your repertoire.

Woven with poignant yet beautiful phrases, this richly narrative piece will leave you looking cooler and impress you as a more sensitive man.