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

sparkleFuji Kaze92rank/position

Fujii Kaze – Kirari (Official Video)

This is Mr.

Fujii Kaze’s sixth digital-only single, released in May 2021 by HEHN RECORDS/Universal Music.

It was also used in the commercial for Honda’s fully redesigned VEZEL, so many people have likely heard it.

With its comfortable rhythm, it’s one of the tracks well-suited to mass formation performances where formations change in sync with the timing.

In addition, the song’s uniquely refreshing and near-futuristic feel seems poised to add contrast and dynamism to a sports day event.

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rainbowAqua Timez93rank/position

Aqua Timez “Niji” Music Video (Theme song for the drama Gokusen Season 3)

Aqua Timez’s “Niji” gently wraps a heart on the verge of breaking and gives it a powerful push forward.

Released in May 2008 as their sixth single, it became widely loved as the theme song for the drama Gokusen: The Third Series, starring Yukie Nakama.

The melody, which fuses sweeping strings with a powerful band sound, has a refreshing clarity that feels like your view opening up just by listening.

Its million certification for surpassing one million downloads also speaks to its long-lasting support.

When you feel lonely studying for exams or frustrated by results in your club activities, give this song a listen.

The straightforward message in the chorus will pour fresh energy into your anxious heart and help you keep going.

Curtain callYuuri94rank/position

Curtain Call by Yuuri: My Hero Academia Special Music Video / My Hero Academia Season 7 Cour 2 Opening Theme Anime MV

This is a song by Yuuri featuring an exhilarating, up-tempo rock melody and lyrics filled with hope as two people strive to understand each other.

It powerfully and directly sings of the protagonist’s strong resolve to keep pursuing the path they believe in, while showing empathy toward those they stand opposed to.

A rousing cheer song that gives you a push to chase dreams together with teammates at sports days and athletic festivals, it was released in July 2024 and chosen as the opening theme for Season 7, Cour 2 of the popular anime My Hero Academia.

It’s a track we especially recommend to everyone competing with friends, helping one another, and giving their all toward their goals.

Everyone is a heroAI95rank/position

Minnagaminna Au (Full Version)

It’s a wonderful cheer song that delivers a powerful message.

Released in February 2016, it’s known as the theme song for au’s “Santaro” commercial series.

AI’s expansive, powerful vocals resonate deeply with listeners.

The lyrics, which capture various moments of everyday life, depict people who strive to move forward even while facing setbacks and anxieties.

The message that you can meet a new version of yourself without losing to headwinds truly sinks in.

It’s a perfect song for junior high school students who are struggling in school life or want to take on a challenge.

It will surely give you courage.

Zankyo SankaAimer96rank/position

Aimer「Zankyosanka」MUSIC VIDEO（Demon Slayer:Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc Theme Song）

A work whose appeal lies in the grand worldview woven by its visuals and music.

The powerful message in the lyrics—“overcoming past pain and moving toward the future”—harmonizes beautifully with the dark, epic melody.

Aimer’s distinctive vocals resonate with deep emotion and stir the heart.

It was pre-released digitally in December 2021, followed by a CD single in January 2022.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc, it drew major attention, including topping two categories on Billboard Japan after its digital release.

It’s perfect when you need the courage to pursue your ideals or to fire yourself up.

Listen to this while training, and you’ll feel the strength to push past your limits.

It’s love, right?wacci97rank/position

wacci 'Koi Daro' Music Video

A signature song by wacci that gives you the courage to cherish pure feelings, regardless of status or position.

Its deep affection—wanting to accept everything about the other person—is expressed through a warm melody and lyrics that resonate.

Released in April 2022, it drew attention as an insert song for the drama “Yangotonaki Ichizoku” and won an Excellence Award at the 64th Japan Record Awards.

Recommended for those who feel anxious about love or want to express their feelings to someone important.

Give it a listen, and why not take a brave step forward yourself?

We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā98rank/position

I’ve gotta do the thing that seems impossible.

A powerful anthem that gives you a push in those youthful moments.

Released by Sambomaster in February 2010, this song carries a warm message that boosts self-affirmation and the spirit to take on challenges.

Centered on themes of “not giving up,” “moving forward,” and “possibility,” it offers a gentle embrace for everyone’s anxieties and doubts while giving the courage to take a new step.

It has been featured in a Nissan commercial and as the image song for the film Cheer☆Dance, resonating with many hearts.

It’s a classic that students training for sports festivals, as well as anyone standing at a crossroads in life, should hear.