Band rankings popular among junior high school students [2026]

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE1rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Blue and Summer

Brimming with the sparkle and exhilaration of summer, this piece is perfect as BGM for sports days and athletic festivals.

Created by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, it was released in August 2018 as the theme song for the film “Aonatsu: 30 Days of Love.” It was later included on the album “Attitude.” Its refreshing band sound and a worldview that captures the brilliance of youth are the song’s key charms.

Overflowing with energy that gives listeners a push forward, it boosts the motivation of students practicing hard for the big day.

How about playing it during relays, cheer battles, and other moments when you want to heat up the field? It’s sure to become a cheer that resonates in the hearts of those working up a sweat.

It’s not me unless it’s meGesu no Kiwami Otome.2rank/position

Gesu no Kiwami Otome “Watashi Igai Watashi Janai no”

A four-piece rock band that builds songs based on progressive rock and hip-hop through each member’s outstanding musicianship, Gesu no Kiwami Otome’s second single showcases plenty to enjoy: a two-phase intro and jaw-dropping performances woven into an otherwise accessible track.

Each part is technically demanding, so band practice is essential to play it together, but its catchy, upbeat vibe makes it a great pick for school and cultural festivals.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number3rank/position

Back Number – Hanako-san on a High Pedestal

A three-piece rock band, back number, known for their popularity with bittersweet lyrics and a melancholic tone.

It’s an exhilarating rock number that captures the relatable emotions of unrequited love.

The guitar mainly features chord strumming patterns, but there are plenty of spotlight moments—like delay-driven phrases and a solo—that are simple yet showy, making it fun to play.

The rhythm section is generally straightforward, but the rhythm becomes irregular in the B section, so be careful not to fall out of sync with the other parts.

None of the parts are particularly difficult, but precisely because of that, mistakes stand out, so it’s important to play each phrase cleanly and with intention.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism4rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Fate [Official Video]

Official HIGE DANDism is a band that has gained popularity for their piercingly high-toned vocals and classic, mainstream pop sound.

This song they perform is an energetic number where piano and brass tones layer together and gradually build in intensity.

It stands by the conflicts and anxieties you face before a big challenge, singing as if to powerfully push you forward.

Released as a single in July 2019 and included on the masterpiece album “Traveler,” it was also selected that year as the “ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song” and the theme for the TV program “Netto Koshien.” It’s perfect as opening BGM for cultural and school festivals, or for brass band performances.

A highly recommended track that fires up the heart and colors a page of youth.

CorrectRADWIMPS5rank/position

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

It’s a warm number that feels like it cheers you on as you set off on a journey to find yourself and your future.

The beautiful piano melodies and band sound crafted by RADWIMPS, layered with a grand choral arrangement by students, are truly moving.

The theme of finding your own answers at your own pace—rather than following a path set by others—perfectly suits those living through their youth.

Sparked by a performance at “18-sai-sai,” an event created together with 18-year-olds, this work was released as a CD in February 2024.

It gently gives a push to those who, while carrying bonds with friends and their own struggles, are trying to move forward.

It’s a perfect choice for moments when the whole school comes together, like at cultural festivals and school festivals!

A Little Love SongMONGOL8006rank/position

MONGOL800 / A Small Love Song

This song has the power to make you rediscover the small joys of everyday life and the connections with the people you cherish.

Included on the album “MESSAGE,” it’s featured on MONGOL800’s landmark release, which sold over 2.8 million copies despite being an indie work.

Since its release in September 2001, it has been beloved as a karaoke standard and remained on the Oricon karaoke charts for an extended period.

It was also used as the theme song for the film “Little Love Song,” perfectly matching the story that portrays the growth and romance of young people.

It’s a highly recommended track for anyone who wants to express their feelings honestly to someone important, or to recall the pure emotions of their youth.

Only for you, clear skiesYorushika7rank/position

Yorushika – Just Clear Skies for You (MUSIC VIDEO)

It’s a refreshing youth anthem packed with memories of summer and a touch of wistfulness.

It’s included on Yorushika’s mini-album “No Encore for the Lost Dogs,” released in May 2018.

The light, upbeat band sound pairs perfectly with Suis’s clear, transparent vocals, and listening to it really makes your heart swell.

Its message, like looking back at lost time in a dazzling light, is a perfect match for those irreplaceable moments of student life.

If you play it for the opening movie of a school or cultural festival, it’s sure to send the venue’s energy soaring—so be sure to choose this track as the BGM for your event!