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

MiracleGReeeeN29rank/position

GReeeeN – Kiseki

It fired up the drama with passion as the theme song for TBS’s series ROOKIES.

That song always played during the best scenes, and Ryuta Sato’s powerful performance brought me to tears…

I think many people are reminded of the drama whenever they hear this track.

Of course, even apart from the show, the song’s emotional impact doesn’t fade—it’s perfect for livening up sports festivals and field days.

It would also be great as the entrance music for a baton relay.

Be sure to play it at the most thrilling moments, like the final battle or the championship match!

User ManualNishino Kana30rank/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 Suichi31rank/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 ROCK32rank/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 IslandSakanakushon33rank/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.

together; along with; bothWANIMA34rank/position

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

On the morning of the entrance ceremony, when expectations and anxieties are all mixed together, you feel like listening to music that can ease your nerves, right? In moments like that, this song by WANIMA—featuring exhilarating, fast-paced rock—is a perfect fit.

It’s included on the single “JUICE UP!!,” released in August 2016, and is widely known as the song used in Nivea Kao’s 8×4 commercial.

During production, the Kumamoto earthquakes struck in April 2016, and the story of the band members pouring their deep feelings for their hometown into the song is well known.

No matter how painful the past or how uncertain tomorrow may be, its powerful lyrics encourage you to move forward as yourself—sure to give junior high school students a strong push.

Give it a listen as a track to color the coming days of youth, from meeting new friends to joining clubs.

bondhaji→35rank/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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