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

It’s nothing.Kamishiraishi Mone15rank/position

Nandemonaiya (RADWIMPS / Mone Kamishiraishi) Full ver. / Yanawaraba

This is a memorable song distinguished by a gentle, heart-touching voice.

Known as the theme song for the film Your Name., this piece is performed by Mone Kamishiraishi with her own unique interpretation.

The lyrics, which weave a story that transcends time, are further enhanced by her clear, translucent vocals.

Released in October 2016, the song captured the hearts of many alongside the film’s massive success and has become a popular choice for karaoke.

Blending moving lyrics with a pleasant melody, it’s perfect for creating memories with friends or expressing your feelings to someone special.

CorrectRADWIMPS16rank/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.

Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)Yonezu Kenshi17rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)

The day of parting will inevitably come someday…

Until that moment arrives, let’s cherish the time we have with friends and those we love—this is a poignant ballad that makes you feel exactly that.

It’s a collaboration between singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu and actor Masaki Suda, included on Yonezu’s 2017 album “BOOTLEG.” The lyrics, which simply dwell on someone far away, truly hit home.

It’s an emotional masterpiece that I want not only middle schoolers but also working adults to listen to.

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One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS18rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “One More”

A classic cheer song! This signature track by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS—a group that gained popularity with a style that blends J-pop with hip-hop elements—was released in August 2010.

“Ato Hitotsu,” a timeless masterpiece etched in many people’s memories as a summer high school baseball cheer song, is also included on the album “Funky Monkey Babys 4.” Its lyrics carry the message that even in tough situations, taking just one more step can bring you closer to your dreams, stirring the hearts of listeners.

It’s guaranteed to amplify emotional moments, from entrance marches to climactic competitions.

A perfect number to send a passionate cheer to everyone giving their all at sports days and athletic festivals!

StaRtMrs. GREEN APPLE19rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – StaRt

This track is packed with a catchy melody and an uplifting message.

Its invigorating pop-rock sound and dynamic, crisp rhythms feel great—sure to encourage you every time you listen! Even when things don’t go well, it carries a powerful cheer: return to your roots and make a fresh start.

Featured on Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s major-label debut mini-album “Variety,” this song is a perfect choice for scenes that mark the beginning of new challenges, such as opening ceremonies or athlete entrances at school sports days.

It will unite the entire venue and elevate the excitement.

Dinner Songtuki.20rank/position

tuki. “Banquet Song” Official Music Video

Woven into song with the ache of bittersweet love, tuki.’s music resonates across genders and generations.

This work carefully portrays the inner conflicts born from repeated partings and renewals with a loved one, gently expressing affection and gratitude toward the other person.

Released in September 2023, it also drew attention with an acoustic version featuring Yuuri in December of the same year.

The stirring vocals and melody are perfect for karaoke; performing it at school festivals or gatherings with friends—any moment when you want to share feelings—will surely strike a deep chord with listeners.

Its warm atmosphere and clear, transparent vocal quality will gently envelop the room.

We againSG21rank/position

We Again (Wind Ensemble ver.) – SG (Official Behind-the-Scenes Music Video)

This work by SG has gained support as an encouraging song that resonates deeply during graduations and farewells.

Its gentle melody, which accompanies young people as they overcome partings and take new steps forward, and its lyrics filled with hope for reunion are especially appealing.

Released in April 2021, it has become a popular track with a cumulative 150 million streams.

Starting in November 2024, it has also been featured in Calorie Mate’s exam-season support commercial, and a concert band version by the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Ensemble has been making waves.

It’s a heartwarming song for farewells, graduation ceremonies, and moments when you long to see someone special again.

It’s a recommended track for times when you want to cherish your memories while looking ahead and doing your best.