Ranking of Popular Japanese Music and J-Pop Artists Among Junior High School Students [2026]

SunMy Hair is Bad78rank/position

My Hair is Bad – Sun

It’s a song by My Hair is Bad imbued with the freshness of a spring breeze.

Vivid depictions unique to high school baseball—pre-game nerves, the smell of mud on the field, the sound of the brass band—resonate deeply.

The members’ past and present feelings intertwine, resulting in a gem that fires up the hearts of its listeners.

Released in March 2024, the track was written as the official theme song for MBS for the 96th National High School Baseball Invitational Tournament.

At their show at Saitama Super Arena, they created a moving stage together with a full house of fans.

It’s a work that will resonate not only with those who have memories of the baseball club, but with anyone who threw themselves wholeheartedly into their youth.

FLASHPerfume79rank/position

[Official Music Video] Perfume 「FLASH」

The song, which captures the brilliance of a fleeting moment, stands out as a refreshing, exhilarating dance tune.

Featuring Perfume’s signature innovative sound and the charm of the three members, it was released as a digital single in March 2016 and included on the album COSMIC EXPLORER.

It was also used as the theme song for the film Chihayafuru.

Notably, the choreography incorporates kung fu-inspired movements.

The must-see routine, themed around stillness and motion, pairs a fast-paced tempo with a dazzling melody, making it perfect for a school sports day entrance song.

It’s also great for cheering on club activities.

Just listening to it will boost your energy, so give it a try!

Brother BeatSnow Man80rank/position

Snow Man “Brother Beat” Dance Practice

For those who want to capture the attention of the entire student body at a school or campus festival, we recommend Brother Beat.

Released in 2022 by Snow Man, a male idol group known for acrobatics and dance, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Mr.

Osomatsu.

Its humorous choral work set to a rock-inspired rhythm is striking.

Dance to this fresh, universally enjoyable track, and it’ll turn the venue into a dance floor.

If you’re looking for something stylish and passionate, be sure to give it a listen!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

Biting the second handzutto mayonaka de ii no ni.81rank/position

ZUTOMAYO - “Bite the Second Hand” Music Video (Zutto Mayonaka de Iinoni. – Byoushin wo Kamu)

This is the memorable debut song by ZUTOMAYO that leaves an unforgettable impact after just one listen.

While rooted in rock, it rides on a funky, undulating bassline—so cool! ACA-ne’s high, energetic vocals seem to voice the anxiety of being chased by time and the restless yearning to find one’s true self.

The music video was released in June 2018, and the track was included on their first EP, “Tadashii Itsuwari Kara no Kishō” (Awakening from a Proper Falsehood).

It was later chosen as the theme song for the anime film “The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window.” It’s the perfect song for anyone who feels their days are somehow lacking, weighed down by an inexplicable sense of urgency.

Soul RevolutionSuperfly82rank/position

Superfly 'Tamashii Revolution' Music Video

The song you should listen to at that crucial moment during a sports day or athletic festival is “Tamashii Revolution.” Released in 2010 by Superfly, known for the massive hit “Ai wo Komete Hanataba wo,” it was used as the theme song for live broadcasts and highlights of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

A heavy, hard rock-like band sound resonates throughout.

Shiho Ochi’s powerful yet emotional vocals will cheer you on.

How about using this rock tune, which amps up the athletes’ momentum, as your BGM?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

Walking with youNovelbright83rank/position

Novelbright – Walking with you [Official Music Video]

Speaking of a song packed with youth, this is Novelbright’s signature track.

The lyrics carry a resolve to walk alongside a loved one and a hope to find happiness even 50 years in the future.

Vocalist Yudai Takenaka’s high-toned voice is striking and resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in October 2018, the song gained major attention when it was used as an insert song for AbemaTV’s drama “Koisuru ❤ Shūmatsu Homestay 2020 Spring.” Listening to it while practicing for a sports day or athletic festival will deepen the bonds with your hard-working teammates.

We are!kitadani hiroshi84rank/position

We Are Kitadani Hiroshi

“We Are!” is the first opening theme of the anime One Piece, and it remains a beloved classic that continues to be cherished as a staple of anime songs.

Its bright melody and lyrics brimming with excitement for adventure and hopeful positivity make it perfect for school sports festivals and athletic meets.

With a heartfelt message that echoes the sincerity found in the anime’s story, it’s an inspiring song that’s sure to move you.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem