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

SignalWANIMA50rank/position

WANIMA “Signal” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

A single song packed with a passionate message for the school festival that colors a page of youth.

It’s a cheering anthem by WANIMA that brilliantly depicts the drive to move toward the future and the real, everyday struggles we face.

While carrying anxieties about an unseen future, it expresses, through powerful rock sounds, the feelings of young people determined to walk their own path.

Featured on the album “Everybody!!,” the track was also used in a Lotte Ice “Sou” commercial, generating a huge response.

In a special NHK program, the band performed with 1,000 eighteen-year-olds, and the moving stage left a lasting impression on many viewers.

With a sound that unites the entire venue, it’s perfect for club presentations and as a theme song for school festivals.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro51rank/position

Promise of Sunflowers [from the 25th Owariasahi Children’s Choir Regular Concert]

Written as the theme song for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon,” this piece became one of Motohiro Hata’s signature works.

Released as a single in August 2014, it is also included on the albums “Ao no Koukei” and “All Time Best Hata Motohiro.” Many listeners were undoubtedly moved by its lyrics, which portray the warmth of those who stay by our side and the unchanging bonds that endure even when we’re apart.

Widely loved as well for its use in NTT West’s commercials, the melody is so well-known that anyone can hum along.

This song, which reminds us that the ordinary moments spent with friends are priceless, is the perfect choice for a graduation ceremony to say “thank you” to teachers and peers who have supported you.

Full-Power BoySukima Suichi52rank/position

Sukima Switch – “Zenryoku Shonen” Music Video : SUKIMASWITCH / Zenryoku Shonen Music Video

Celebrated as one of Sukima Switch’s signature songs, this track sings of the strength of a pure heart that evokes the freshness of youth.

Carrying a message about the importance of holding on to youthful passion, it inspires the courage and energy to face difficulties.

It rekindles the playful spirit and willingness to take on challenges that are often lost in adulthood, reminding us of the beauty of living life to the fullest.

Released in April 2004, the song was featured in an NTT Docomo commercial for the Kansai region and became a key work that showcased Sukima Switch’s musical evolution.

It gives a boost to students practicing for sports days and athletic festivals, and serves as a reliable ally when you want to give your all toward a goal.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number53rank/position

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

back number is a hugely popular three-piece rock band formed in 2004.

Although they went through several member changes at first, the current lineup has been stable since 2007.

Their music is highly catchy, with clean, accessible melodies that have won wide popularity.

Among their love songs, one of the most famous is Takane no Hanako-san.

Although it was released in 2014, it’s so well-known that even junior high school students are likely familiar with it.

It vividly captures the classic feelings of unrequited love, making it a must-listen for anyone in the throes of youth!

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Ryo

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You don’t listen to rock.aimyon54rank/position

Aimyon – You Don’t Listen to Rock [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

A coming-of-age song released in September 2017 by singer-songwriter Aimyon.

Told from a male perspective, this portrayal of the ache of unrequited love became a major hit, receiving heavy rotation on radio and surpassing 100 million streams.

Moments like trying to share music on a dust-covered record evoke a heartfelt desire to convey feelings through rock.

Aimyon herself is said to have written the song after being deeply moved by a Spitz concert.

It’s the kind of track that will stir your emotions even more when you hear it at a school or cultural festival.

A must-listen for students who feel the frustration of not being able to get their feelings across to someone they like.

Let’s give it a tryWANIMA55rank/position

Yattemiyou

This is a boldly rock-arranged take on the familiar children’s song “Picnic,” a number that gives listeners a powerful push forward.

Created by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band from Kumamoto Prefecture, the track sets a universally known melody to a positive message: “Don’t be afraid to fail—just try.” It’s sure to blow away that heavy feeling before you sit down at your desk.

Released for digital distribution in January 2017, it also became a major topic as the theme song for au’s “Santaro” commercial series.

Its bright, fast-paced sound is perfect for a refresh when you’re stuck with club activities or studying.

Why not take the courage to make that first small step from this song?

Eine KleineYonezu Kenshi56rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Eine Kleine

If you’re a third-year middle school student, the major milestone of graduation is approaching.

There may be farewells—to friends, a boyfriend or girlfriend, teachers, and perhaps even family.

When thoughts like these make you feel down, this song will surely help you.

It’s a track by singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, included on his second album, YANKEE, released in 2014.

Its warm yet heartrending melody and vocals seep deep into your heart.

Be sure to listen closely.

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Araki Jakkan

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