[Middle School Students] Popular Japanese Songs / J-POP Rankings [By Generation]

idolYOASOBI71rank/position

YOASOBI "Idol" Official Music Video

YOASOBI’s songs are known for their conceptual themes based on novels and their profound messages.

This piece was released on June 21, 2023 as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oshi no Ko,” and its lyrics that shake listeners’ hearts are especially striking.

It vividly portrays the protagonist’s emotions as they confess the conflicts of being an idol, self-sacrifice, and inner vulnerability.

The unique sound, which fuses hip-hop and gothic rock, is also captivating.

While facing one’s true self, the song questions the meaning of being loved and loving someone—a deeply thought-provoking track.

It’s a resonant masterpiece that’s perfect as a school festival dance number and sure to touch the hearts of those who listen.

Tomorrow as wellSHISHAMO72rank/position

SHISHAMO “Tomorrow Too”

It’s a friendly, feel-good cheer song that almost everyone has heard at least once.

Unusual among SHISHAMO’s works, it was created based on the excitement felt while watching a match of the soccer team Kawasaki Frontale.

Released in February 2017 as a track on the album “SHISHAMO 4,” it gained wide recognition through its tie-in with an NTT Docomo commercial.

Singing about the joy of meeting your dream heroes on the weekend and the energy you get from it, the song features warm lyrics that convey the support around you and hope for the future.

Even in tough or discouraging times, it’s a stirring track that gives you the courage and strength to look forward, and it resonates in moments when you step forward with power—such as the entrance at a sports day or the opening of a school athletic festival.

dance hallMrs. GREEN APPLE73rank/position

2023 Parachute Balloon ♪ Dance Hall

An uplifting anthem whose light rhythm and bouncy melody remind you of the joy of living! Comparing the world to a dance hall, this Mrs.

GREEN APPLE track sends a positive message to enjoy life more.

Released on the July 2022 album “Unity,” it was also selected as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Mezamashi 8.” It appears in the film “The White Lounge in CINEMA,” where its on-screen performance helped boost the song’s success.

Its dance-inducing vibe and happy mood make it perfect as background music for races or marches in sports day scenes.

Brimming with positive energy, this song is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Christmas songback number74rank/position

back number – Christmas Song (full)

Back Number’s “Christmas Song” is a track that portrays a bittersweet longing for love.

It’s also known as the theme song for the TV drama “5→9: From Five to Nine,” and its lavish strings and straightforward lyrics resonate with many hearts.

Though it’s listened to year-round, this song is an essential melody during the Christmas season.

Perhaps even a middle school girl with an unrequited crush is listening to it with a fluttering heart.

The musical magic woven by Back Number continues to captivate people across generations.

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu75rank/position

Spitz / I Should Be Able to Fly in the Sky

On the day you set off on a new journey, you naturally want to listen to songs that make you feel grateful for having met your classmates and teachers.

“Sora mo Toberu Hazu” (“We Could Even Fly in the Sky”), released by Spitz in 1994, features Kusano’s crystalline vocals that lift your spirits.

The bittersweet lyrics prompt you to look back on your school days, and the catchy melody makes it easy to sing along.

The chorus lyrics, which make you feel like you can go anywhere, are perfect for singing on graduation day!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

AgainWANIMA76rank/position

WANIMA “Again” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A rock tune by WANIMA that sings of a strong will to move forward again while overcoming setbacks and failures.

It captures the realization that past experiences shape who we are now, and the determination to take a new step with the courage to stand up again and again.

Released in March 2019 on their 4th single “Good Job!!,” the song also drew attention as the theme for the TBS drama “Maison de Police.” It’s a motivational anthem that gently supports not only athletes but everyone striving toward their dreams and goals.

ANTENNAMrs. GREEN APPLE77rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「ANTENNA」Official Music Video

When you can’t stay focused at your desk and your motivation is running low, this is exactly when you should listen to Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s exhilarating, fast-paced rock tune.

It’s the title track that opens their July 2023 album “ANTENNA,” and it was also chosen as the Japan national team’s support song for Fuji TV’s FIVB Paris Olympic Qualifiers/World Cup Volleyball 2023.

Its message—trusting your own sensibilities and moving toward the future—paired with its dynamic sound is sure to lift an anxious heart.

With its shape-shifting development and abundant energy, just listening will recharge your positive power.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to reset and boost your motivation, like during breaks from exam study or before club activities.