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

bondhaji→36rank/position

Hazzie – Bonds.

Hajime’s “Kizuna” is perfect for when you want to express gratitude to someone important, like friends or upperclassmen from your club.

As the title suggests, it’s themed around the bonds between people, singing about appreciation for having met and the greatness of that connection.

Because the lyrics don’t specify the exact relationship with the other person, it’s easy to relate the song to all kinds of relationships.

Its laid-back vibe and conversational wording also make it a great choice to listen to with someone special when you want to relax.

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yamamoto

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The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell37rank/position

[Available until July 14, 2025] Bakemonogatari ED “The Story You Don’t Know” supercell Original Audio 4K High Quality Full AAC-LC – 320 kbps

supercell is a creator team formed around composer ryo, bringing together creators such as designers and illustrators.

Their song “Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari” is an emotional pop-rock piece whose beautiful piano and guitar accompaniment, together with vocalist nagi’s voice, evokes a beautiful yet bittersweet summer.

The emotional melody—something almost any Japanese listener would fall in love with—is so memorable that you’ll recall it after just one listen.

It’s a recommended track for those slightly wistful moments, like the end of summer!

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Yuuki

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fireworks (launched into the sky)DAOKO × Yonezu Kenshi38rank/position

DAOKO × Kenshi Yonezu 'Uchiage Hanabi' MUSIC VIDEO

This song, which became the theme for the film “Fireworks, Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?”, is a collaboration between singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu and female singer DAOKO.

DAOKO’s bewitching vocals pair perfectly with Yonezu’s somewhat wistful track.

I think this atmosphere connects closely with the film itself.

I’m sure many people took this song as a cue to check out the tracks DAOKO has released under her solo name.

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Hane Keisuke

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Fanfaresumika39rank/position

sumika / Fanfare [Music Video]

This is an uplifting song that combines a sense of exhilarating momentum with a positive message.

It carries feelings that anyone can relate to, embodied in the protagonist who takes a step from a dark room toward a dazzling light.

Released in August 2018, the track drew major attention as the opening theme for the animated film “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.” sumika’s uniquely refreshing sound matches the film’s worldview beautifully, capturing the hearts of many.

It’s a perfect song for those who, despite their worries and anxieties, want to take a step forward, or for anyone seeking a push before a new challenge.

Charlesbarūn40rank/position

Charles / Balloon (self cover)

This song features a light, upbeat rhythm, stylish chord progressions, and a catchy melody that sticks in your head.

Released in 2016, it is Balloon (Keina Suda)’s 26th Vocaloid track, themed around lost love and parting.

Despite the bittersweet lyrics, its bright sound leaves a strong impression.

On YouTube, you can find a version sung by Keina Suda himself, while the Vocaloid version is available on Niconico.

It’s also included on the compilation album “EXIT TUNES PRESENTS Vocalostream feat.

Hatsune Miku,” so if you’re interested, be sure to check it out.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro41rank/position

Promise of Sunflowers [from the 25th Owariasahi Children’s Choir Regular Concert]

Written as the theme song for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon,” this piece became one of Motohiro Hata’s signature works.

Released as a single in August 2014, it is also included on the albums “Ao no Koukei” and “All Time Best Hata Motohiro.” Many listeners were undoubtedly moved by its lyrics, which portray the warmth of those who stay by our side and the unchanging bonds that endure even when we’re apart.

Widely loved as well for its use in NTT West’s commercials, the melody is so well-known that anyone can hum along.

This song, which reminds us that the ordinary moments spent with friends are priceless, is the perfect choice for a graduation ceremony to say “thank you” to teachers and peers who have supported you.

chantAdo42rank/position

"Spell" by Ado

Ado’s new single, released for streaming in September 2023, serves as the theme song for Universal Studios Japan’s Halloween event “Halloween Horror Nights.” Brimming with passionate messaging, it’s an energetic track that lets Ado fully unleash her emotions.

Right after its release, dance videos on TikTok surged in popularity, and within just a few weeks the song surpassed 100 million plays, resonating with many listeners.

It’s a perfect choice for those who want to channel their emotions to Ado’s fiery vocals in dance performances at school festivals and cultural events.