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

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE1rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Blue and Summer

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE is a three-piece rock band known for their emotional high-tone vocals and catchy melodies.

Their 7th single, “Ao to Natsu,” chosen as the theme song for the film Aonatsu: Kimi ni Koi Shita 30-nichi (Blue Summer: The 30 Days I Loved You), is a summer-ready number marked by a refreshing guitar riff.

The lyrics evoke images of chasing after a youth that will never come again, making the heat of summer heighten their sense of reality.

It’s an exhilarating rock tune that resonates both with middle schoolers in the midst of their youth and adults who can’t help but look back on theirs.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

HarukaYOASOBI2rank/position

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

A moving work spun from the story of a mug that has watched over someone’s half a lifetime.

In YOASOBI’s music-led tale, the mug sometimes illuminates life’s milestones and at other times gently embraces small moments of growth.

Everyday scenes sprinkled throughout vividly reflect the bittersweetness of partings and growing up that everyone experiences.

Released in December 2020, this work is based on Osamu Suzuki’s novel “Tsuki Ouji” (Moon Prince).

It has also been featured as the commercial song for Takara Tomy’s LCD care toy “Puniruns” and as the image song for “Art Aquarium 2021 — Hakata: Festival of Goldfish,” garnering support from a wide audience.

It is a song that stays close to those who have parted with a cherished memento or who are facing a farewell with someone dear.

A Little Love SongMONGOL8003rank/position

MONGOL800 / A Small Love Song

The classic song “Chiisana Koi no Uta” is still loved by many people today.

Although it’s an older track released in 2001, it’s a curious song that continues to be highly popular among younger generations.

I think many current junior high school students also know this song.

The opening part sits very low in the register, so many people may feel it’s difficult.

However, that low delivery is primarily a vocal choice to make it sound good; if you’re aiming for a high score in karaoke, songs like this one with lots of low notes can actually be easier to sing.

Find the key that suits you and give it a try.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

If you laugh at the skywacci4rank/position

wacci “If You Laugh at the Sky” Music Video

wacci is a rock band that delivers music that fits seamlessly into everyday life.

Their song “Sora ni Waraeba,” included on the 2018 album Gunjō Refrain, empowers people striving toward their dreams and goals.

The lyrics unfold like a portrait of days spent working hard with classmates toward a school sports festival.

Even when things get tough, you can picture everyone overcoming it together.

With a warm band arrangement incorporating beautiful strings, it’s a moving song that resonates with the heart.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mutō

Report a problem

horizonback number5rank/position

back number – Horizon

A gem of a ballad delivered by back number, a band that captures listeners’ hearts with poignant lyrics.

Beginning with a gentle piano melody, this song weaves a story about the pain of dreams and hopes suddenly collapsing, and the will to look forward and begin anew.

Many will find their own experiences reflected in the raw, urgent feelings—like a cry for one’s existence—born from unnoticed loneliness.

Created for high school students whose Inter-High was canceled, the song was released on YouTube in August 2020.

It’s a classic that quietly stays by your side when summer fun has passed and a faint loneliness sets in.

Only for you, clear skiesYorushika6rank/position

Yorushika – Just Clear Skies for You (MUSIC VIDEO)

This piece is included on the second mini-album released in May 2018, “Losers Don’t Need an Encore.” It’s a nostalgic portrayal that recalls summer scenes spent with someone special, and it tightens your chest as you listen.

It depicts a protagonist who, while growing up, feels the anxiety of falling behind and carries feelings they can’t put into words—something that will surely resonate with junior high school students in the midst of their youth.

Despite the heartrending lyrics, the refreshing tone and melody offer a sense of relief, making it an emotional number.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE7rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

This song evokes the brilliance of youth, a touch of bittersweet memories, and a great sense of hope for the future.

Its melody, which cherishes days gone by while giving you the courage to take a new step, resonates gently in the listener’s heart.

The creator’s message—“cherish your true self”—is also warmly conveyed.

Released in April 2024 by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, the track has become widely beloved as the opening theme for the TV anime Oblivion Battery.

This anime tie-in, the band’s first in about five years, became a major talking point when it won the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards at the end of the year.

Put it on during a summer drive or a get-together with friends and it’s sure to lift the mood! It’s also a great pick-me-up when you need an energy boost.