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

I can’t stand that cute girl.narumiya78rank/position

I can't stand that cute girl – Narumiya

Set to a poppy, upbeat rhythm, this track vividly chronicles complex feelings like infatuation and jealousy.

It’s a single released by singer-songwriter Narumiya in September 2023, and it sparked a huge response mainly on social media.

Packed with possessiveness toward a crush and aching wishes, the more you listen, the tighter your chest feels.

Yet those disarmingly honest lyrics end up speaking for your feelings and lightening your heart.

Why not give it a listen when you’re struggling with unrequited love or wishing someone would understand your true feelings at night? If you let yourself sink into the up-tempo groove and let out the haze in your heart, you might feel a bit refreshed.

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu79rank/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!

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ANTENNAMrs. GREEN APPLE80rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「ANTENNA」Official Music Video

An energetic band sound that cranks up the excitement of a sports day to the max.

The melody woven by vocalist Motoki Omori will move your heart.

Portraying the will to press forward while carrying anxiety, this song by the hugely popular Mrs.

GREEN APPLE was also selected as the support song for Japan’s national team in Fuji TV’s “FIVB Paris Olympic Qualifiers / World Cup Volleyball 2023.” It’s the perfect BGM for those moments when you give your all in pursuit of victory.

A masterpiece with an overwhelming sense of scale, worthy of the passion of sports.

AgainWANIMA81rank/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.

Yes, with pleasure.kocchi no kento82rank/position

Sure thing / Kocchino Kento MV

This is a song released by Kocchinoken-to in May 2024, an uplifting anthem that pairs a catchy rhythm and melody with a heartwarming message.

The “Giri Giri Dance,” which spread mainly through social media, became a hot topic as an easy, accessible performance for everyone and has been a huge hit as background music and a cheer song at school sports days.

The track packs a powerful, confidence-boosting message into its up-tempo sound, keeping you feeling positive from start to finish.

It also garnered major buzz on TikTok and even led to a collaboration with Sanrio characters.

Its breezy, get-you-running rhythm and friendly, singable melody are part of its charm.

Perfect not only for school sports festivals and athletic events, it’s also a great pick-me-up for everyday motivation.

Connect!Misaka Saki83rank/position

Saki Misaka – Connect! (Full ver.)

Saki Misaka’s free, soaring vocals go straight to the heart! This track, included on the EP “Every day, Every night” released in December 2019, was chosen as the support song for the 98th National High School Soccer Championship and became a major talking point.

The lyrics, which portray genuine emotions about the long days spent with teammates and the mutual support that helped them overcome hardships, were written by Misaka herself after on-site interviews.

It powerfully pushes students who are earnestly striving toward their dreams.

A fiery, emotional pop number that perfectly fits sports scenes.

Highly recommended as an entrance tune for high-energy competitions or as BGM when a class wants to unite as one!

Bye, my friendbokula.84rank/position

bokula. – By My Friend - [Official Music Video]

A rock band from Hiroshima, bokula.

delivers a track packed with the sparkle and bittersweetness of youth.

The lyrics, which portray everyday moments with friends and the preciousness of irreplaceable time, will give a powerful push to a young man setting off on a new path.

Included on their second mini-album, “Seikatsu ni, Yorisoi.” released in May 2022, the song has garnered wide support, surpassing 1 million views on YouTube.

It’s also known for winning the China Block Award at the 15th CD Shop Awards, cementing its strong reputation.

With a driving, uplifting sound that blows away the sadness of parting, it’s perfect for karaoke, arms around your friends as you sing along.

Believe that you’ll meet again with a smile someday, and send it as a cheer to a dear friend.