Band rankings popular among junior high school students [2026]

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE1rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Blue and Summer

It’s a refreshing rock number packed with the brilliance and wistfulness of summer.

While it portrays anxieties about friendships and romance, the song overflows with a positive belief in human connections.

Released in August 2018 as the theme song for the film “A Blue Summer: 30 Days of You,” Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s seventh single surpassed 500 million streams in January 2024.

It was also performed at the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen in December 2024, generating major buzz.

Filled with summer-specific imagery and a desire to cherish every moment of youth, it’s guaranteed to unite and electrify the entire venue if performed at a school festival.

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.

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Hoshino Takashi

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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.

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Hoshino Takashi

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CorrectRADWIMPS4rank/position

RADWIMPS – The Answer [Official Music Video]

An emotional number by RADWIMPS that sings about the questions you’re likely to face in your school life ahead and the importance of finding your own answers.

It was created to be performed with one thousand 18-year-olds for the NHK program “RADWIMPS 18-sai Matsuri,” broadcast in October 2018.

The lyrics, which explore the true meaning of life—things not found in school textbooks—will surely resonate deeply with junior high school students starting a new chapter.

In addition to being included on the album “ANTI ANTI GENERATION,” it was released as a CD single in February 2024.

The beautiful interplay of piano and chorus is sure to gently give you courage on the morning of the entrance ceremony, when anxiety and anticipation are intertwined.

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism5rank/position

EMG3-0223 Destiny / Official HIGE DANDism [Mixed 3-Part Chorus]

This is a moving song that portrays dreams, passion, setbacks, and growth.

While it symbolizes the fierce battles of high school baseball players, it is also embraced as an anthem that cheers on anyone facing life’s challenges.

Released in July 2019, it was selected as the “2019 ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song / ‘Netto Koshien’ Theme Song,” capturing the hearts of many.

Official HIGE DANDism’s clear, luminous vocals and relatable lyrics are captivating.

It’s perfect for junior high school students approaching graduation.

If you’re feeling anxious about a new environment or sad about parting with friends, this song will surely give you courage.

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)

This piece is included on the second mini-album released in May 2018, “Losers Don’t Need an Encore.” It’s a nostalgic portrayal that recalls summer scenes spent with someone special, and it tightens your chest as you listen.

It depicts a protagonist who, while growing up, feels the anxiety of falling behind and carries feelings they can’t put into words—something that will surely resonate with junior high school students in the midst of their youth.

Despite the heartrending lyrics, the refreshing tone and melody offer a sense of relief, making it an emotional number.