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

A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki57rank/position

Masaki Suda “A Scenery I’ve Never Seen”

This is Masaki Suda’s debut track, packed with passion through its driving rock sound and powerful vocals.

Released in June 2017, the song earnestly portrays people who keep moving forward even while covered in mud.

Its message, full of determination and passion toward the future, was featured in au’s “au BLUE CHALLENGE” series and resonated with many listeners.

The track is included on the album “PLAY” and garnered high acclaim, reaching No.

3 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

It’s also perfect as entrance music for athletes at school sports days, gently yet powerfully pushing forward everyone who is striving to face ahead.

Zankyo SankaAimer58rank/position

Aimer「Zankyosanka」MUSIC VIDEO（Demon Slayer:Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc Theme Song）

A work whose appeal lies in the grand worldview woven by its visuals and music.

The powerful message in the lyrics—“overcoming past pain and moving toward the future”—harmonizes beautifully with the dark, epic melody.

Aimer’s distinctive vocals resonate with deep emotion and stir the heart.

It was pre-released digitally in December 2021, followed by a CD single in January 2022.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc, it drew major attention, including topping two categories on Billboard Japan after its digital release.

It’s perfect when you need the courage to pursue your ideals or to fire yourself up.

Listen to this while training, and you’ll feel the strength to push past your limits.

broad daylightKing Gnu59rank/position

[Mixed Chorus] Hakujitsu – King Gnu

One of the signature songs by the rock band King Gnu, which exploded in popularity in 2019.

The high notes by vocalist Mr.

Iguchi in the intro are striking, and I think it’s widely recognized as a high-difficulty song for karaoke.

How about taking on this notoriously difficult piece as a choral arrangement? In a choir, you can divide parts by vocal range, which might actually make it easier to tackle.

While the original is a rock song, if you arrange it for chorus and perform it beautifully, you’re sure to feel a great sense of accomplishment!

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Hane Keisuke

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Racing into the NightYOASOBI60rank/position

YOASOBI “Racing into the Night” Official Music Video

YOASOBI’s “Yoru ni Kakeru” is also extremely popular as background music for dance.

Released as a single in December 2019, it dominated virtually every chart in 2020 and has become such a classic that it seems like there’s no one who hasn’t heard it.

YouTube is full of kids’ dance videos to the song, which shows just how popular it is.

There are routines at various levels from elementary to high school, so be sure to try a dance performance at your school’s sports day or festival!

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Hamada Takuya

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Wanted WantedMrs. GREEN APPLE61rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – WanteD! WanteD!

This song is notable for its exhilarating sound that vividly captures the emotions of youth.

Released in August 2017 as Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s fifth single, it was also used as the opening theme for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “We Did It.” The lyrics deftly portray modern young people who run from their own weaknesses, while also weaving in irony toward conservative adults, resulting in a message that resonates with many.

It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for class performances or karaoke, and a perfect song for friends to sing together—one that offers comfort to students dealing with pressure and stress.

You and the summer music festivalSHISHAMO62rank/position

SHISHAMO “You and the Summer Festival”

When it comes to summer songs and summer festivals, this is the one! SHISHAMO’s “Kimi to Natsu Fes.” Released in 2014 as their debut single, it’s become one of the band’s signature tracks and a staple at summer festivals.

The song paints a heart-fluttering scene of a couple who’ve only just started dating going on a summer festival date—fresh and sweet.

The girl’s feelings—“I want to enjoy the fest, but will he think I’m too much?”—are adorable worries that many can totally relate to!

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utatane

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KanadeSukima Suichi63rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This song depicts the parting with someone precious—and the wish to remain connected at heart beyond that farewell—set to a beautiful ballad.

Released by Sukima Switch in March 2004 as their second single, it features a sentimental sound centered on piano and guitar that resonates deeply.

It was used as an insert song in the film “Rough,” as the theme song for the drama “Sotsu Uta,” and in 2006 it was selected as the ending theme for the final day of “Netto Koshien.” It’s a track that, while looking back on days spent with friends, makes you want to cherish those bonds from here on out.