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

User ManualNishino Kana29rank/position

Kana Nishino 'Torisetsu' MV (Short Ver.)

A pop tune that humorously captures a girl’s feelings! The instruction-manual-like lyrics feel fresh and really convey the delicate emotions of women.

Kana Nishino’s soft vocals charmingly portray the complexities of a woman’s heart.

Released in September 2015, the song was also used as the theme for the film “No Longer Heroine” released the same year.

Popular at weddings, this track might even help men better understand women’s feelings.

It could be nice for couples to listen together and reaffirm each other’s feelings.

KanadeSukima Suichi30rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Kanade” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / KANADE Music Video

This song is a beautiful ballad that portrays parting with someone dear and the wish to stay connected at heart beyond that farewell.

Released by Sukima Switch in March 2004 as their second single, it features a sentimental sound centered on piano and guitar that truly resonates.

It was used as an insert song for the film “Rough,” the theme song for the drama “Sotsu Uta,” and in 2006 was selected as the ending theme for the final day of “Netto Koshien.” The protagonist’s earnest desire to reach someone through voice and song even when apart mirrors the feelings of junior high school students facing the milestone of graduation.

It’s a track that, while looking back on days with friends, makes you want to cherish those bonds going forward.

Sung as a chorus, it would surely fill the entire venue with warm tears.

We AreONE OK ROCK31rank/position

ONE OK ROCK: We Are [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

With its powerful message and hope-filled lyrics, this song stirs the hearts of young people.

While grappling with struggles against societal judgment and prejudice, it conveys a strong will to cherish one’s true self and keep moving forward.

Included on the album “Ambitions,” it has received high acclaim since its release in January 2017.

On NHK’s “18 Festival,” ONE OK ROCK and 1,000 members of the 18-year-old generation created a once-in-a-lifetime stage, producing a moving moment.

Paired with a group gymnastics performance, it can express the importance of teamwork and the determination to take on a shared goal.

New Treasure IslandSakanakushon32rank/position

Shin Takarajima / Sakanaction SIT Band - Sapporo International Information High School Wind Ensemble

This is a lively song brimming with children’s excitement for unknown adventures.

Created by Sakanaction, it was produced in September 2015 as the theme song for the film “Bakuman.” Its retro synthesizer sound and upbeat rhythm are striking, and the production that evokes the late 1980s to early 1990s makes you feel as if you’ve slipped back in time.

Giving you the courage to take a bold step into the future, this track is perfect for a school sports day entrance scene or a dance number! It will fill the venue with a bright mood and put smiles on everyone’s faces.

bondhaji→33rank/position

Hazzie – Bonds.

Hajime’s “Kizuna” is perfect for when you want to express gratitude to someone important, like friends or upperclassmen from your club.

As the title suggests, it’s themed around the bonds between people, singing about appreciation for having met and the greatness of that connection.

Because the lyrics don’t specify the exact relationship with the other person, it’s easy to relate the song to all kinds of relationships.

Its laid-back vibe and conversational wording also make it a great choice to listen to with someone special when you want to relax.

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together; along with; bothWANIMA34rank/position

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

This song, which celebrates friendship, hope, and the strength to overcome hardship, fills listeners with energy and courage.

WANIMA’s exhilarating, fast-paced sound and positive message stand by those who continue to face challenges, serving as a powerful support.

Released in August 2016 as the theme song for Nivea Kao’s “8×4” commercial, it also carries the members’ deep love for their hometown of Kumamoto and their hopes for its recovery.

Included on the album “Are You Coming?”, the track was also performed at the 2017 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

With its strong message, the song brings the perfect blend of excitement and refreshment for a school sports day’s exit scene.

It is expected to heighten the sense of unity in the venue, along with the children’s feelings of accomplishment and emotion after giving their all in competition.

Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster35rank/position

Little Glee Monster 'Someday These Tears Will' Short Ver.

An uplifting anthem by Little Glee Monster, brimming with passion and powerful harmonies that stir the heart.

Created as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, this piece gives a push to all who are walking toward their dreams.

Included on the album “juice,” the song carries a message that the tears you’ve shed will one day turn into shining achievements.

When you want to get fired up before a match or for an important moment, listening to this track will fill you with courage and hope.

It’s a song that stays close to your heart and gives you tremendous strength.