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.

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon23rank/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.

Fanfaresumika24rank/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.

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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Start to shine and run forwardSambomasutā27rank/position

Sambomaster / Starting to Shine and Run - MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a cheer song brimming with youthful passion and hope.

It portrays a protagonist who carries deep pain in their heart and feels on the verge of losing themselves, yet by accepting that suffering, the work gives them the courage to take a new step forward.

Released by Sambomaster in August 2018, the track was chosen as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Cheer☆Dan,” and, alongside the story of high school students striving to conquer the United States, left a lasting impression on many viewers.

This piece is also perfect as background music for school sports days and athletic festivals, gently supporting students who give their all and sweat it out together with their friends.

silhouetteKANA-BOON28rank/position

KANA-BOON “Silhouette” Music Video

How about lifting your spirits with a fast-paced, exhilarating guitar rock track? Created by the rock band KANA-BOON—also known for songs like “Naimononedari” and “Full Drive”—this piece was released in 2014.

It became a hit after being chosen as an opening theme for the anime Naruto Shippuden.

It’s a message song that makes you realize you, too, carry something irreplaceable in your heart.

Keep this song close, and throw yourself into what only you can do right now!

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