Band rankings popular among junior high school students [2026]

flying boatKing Gnu22rank/position

King Gnu – Hikōtei (Seaplane)

If you’re looking for a rock track with a hefty beat and grand sound that lifts your spirits and gives you a strong push forward, this is the song for you.

One of King Gnu’s signature tunes, it blows away the hesitation that comes from worrying too much about society’s norms and what’s “right,” and gives you the courage to freely chase your dreams.

Released as a single in August 2019, it’s also included on the January 2020 album CEREMONY.

It also made waves for being written specifically for an ANA (All Nippon Airways) TV commercial.

Packed with a fiery message to live with your soul trembling, this song is guaranteed to spark motivation from deep within when you’re feeling worn out from studying or club activities.

RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION23rank/position

ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION “Rewrite” (M-1 Grand Prix 2024 Promotion Video Theme Song)

A searing, emotional masterpiece that grabs high schoolers’ hearts and never lets go! Its grand melody and exhilarating, driving guitar sound will fill the entire school festival venue with excitement.

The lyrics portray real, down-to-earth youth who question their own purpose, face failure, and keep moving forward—sure to stir your soul.

Released by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION in August 2004, this song was chosen as the opening theme for the popular anime Fullmetal Alchemist.

It’s a classic that begs to be performed live, uniting the whole crowd in a frenzy.

Highly recommended even for those just starting out with band performances!

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon24rank/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.

Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts25rank/position

Creepy Nuts “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” × TV Anime “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES” Collaboration Music Video #BBBB Dance

Produced as the opening theme for the second season of the TV anime “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES,” this track became a global hit as the dance synced to the opening video went viral on social media.

Its biggest draw is the exhilarating message of believing in your own “raw” power and breaking through conventions.

The protagonist, who relies solely on his muscles in a world of magic, mirrors the way Creepy Nuts themselves have honed their skills and carved their path.

It’s the ultimate anthem of support that affirms your individuality—perfect for when you’ve lost confidence by comparing yourself to others.

Prefacemakaroni enpitsu26rank/position

Macaroni Enpitsu “Hashirigaki” MV

If you’re looking for a refreshing yet bittersweet rock track that captures youthful days, “Hashirigaki” is a great pick.

Released in 2021 by Macaroni Empitsu, a band known for emotive songs that reflect the hearts of young people, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Crayon Shin-chan: Shrouded in Mystery! The Flowers of Tenkasu Academy.

Its mellow band sound unfolds over a brisk rhythm.

It’s a coming-of-age song that turns both joyful and painful moments into memories.

If you need BGM for a sports day or school athletics festival, give it a listen.

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silhouetteKANA-BOON27rank/position

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

How about a masterpiece whose driving guitar riffs and powerful band sound strike straight to the heart? It’s a single released in November 2014 by KANA-BOON, a rock band formed in Osaka.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Naruto Shippuden, it sparked major buzz both in Japan and abroad.

This work conveys a resolve to move forward while recognizing that past experiences and encounters shape who we are today, holding what’s precious close to our hearts.

Vocalist Maguro Taniguchi’s emotional voice powerfully encourages students who put in daily effort toward their big moment.

It’s the perfect cheer song for heated events like relays and pep rallies!

Live in the present.Saucy Dog28rank/position

Saucy Dog “Live in the present.” Music Video

Powerfully singing of youthful passion and hope, this Saucy Dog track was created as a cheer anthem for the 101st All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Portraying growth through overcoming setbacks and hardship, bonds with teammates, and the courage to move forward while staying true to oneself, the song deeply resonates with young people navigating high school life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Released in December 2022, it has become an indispensable fan favorite at their live shows, giving a strong push not only to soccer players but also to students working hard every day for their clubs and school events.