[Middle School Students] Popular Songs Ranking by Generation [2026]

ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism64rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Chessboard [Official Video]

This work by Official HIGE DANDism likens the game of life to a chessboard, teaching us the importance of taking steps that are true to ourselves—not just winning or losing.

Its lyrics, depicting someone advancing while hesitating on black-and-white squares, are sure to resonate deeply with junior high school students who feel uncertain about the future.

Released in September 2023 as a double A-side single with “Nichijou” (Everyday), it was created as the set piece for the Junior High School Division of the 90th NHK National School Music Competition.

It was also broadcast on NHK’s Minna no Uta, so many of you may have heard it.

Give it a listen when you’re stuck in your studies or unsure about the path you should take.

It’s a masterpiece that gives you the courage to find a meaning on the board that’s yours alone.

We AreONE OK ROCK65rank/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.

idolYOASOBI66rank/position

YOASOBI "Idol" Official Music Video

YOASOBI’s songs are known for their conceptual themes based on novels and their profound messages.

This piece was released on June 21, 2023 as the opening theme for the TV anime “Oshi no Ko,” and its lyrics that shake listeners’ hearts are especially striking.

It vividly portrays the protagonist’s emotions as they confess the conflicts of being an idol, self-sacrifice, and inner vulnerability.

The unique sound, which fuses hip-hop and gothic rock, is also captivating.

While facing one’s true self, the song questions the meaning of being loved and loving someone—a deeply thought-provoking track.

It’s a resonant masterpiece that’s perfect as a school festival dance number and sure to touch the hearts of those who listen.

Zankyo SankaAimer67rank/position

Aimer「Zankyosanka」MUSIC VIDEO（Demon Slayer:Kimetsu no Yaiba Entertainment District Arc Theme Song）

A work whose appeal lies in the grand worldview woven by its visuals and music.

The powerful message in the lyrics—“overcoming past pain and moving toward the future”—harmonizes beautifully with the dark, epic melody.

Aimer’s distinctive vocals resonate with deep emotion and stir the heart.

It was pre-released digitally in December 2021, followed by a CD single in January 2022.

Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Entertainment District Arc, it drew major attention, including topping two categories on Billboard Japan after its digital release.

It’s perfect when you need the courage to pursue your ideals or to fire yourself up.

Listen to this while training, and you’ll feel the strength to push past your limits.

New My NormalMrs. GREEN APPLE68rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “New My Normal” Official Music Video

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE is a three-piece rock band that has gained popularity with songs featuring a piercing high-tone voice and lyrical lyrics.

Their 5th digital single, “New My Normal,” is the track that marked the beginning of the band’s “Phase 2” in 2022.

Because the arrangement develops at a dizzying pace, be careful not to rush or drag the rhythm in any part.

With its exhilarating sense of speed that lifts the energy, it’s an ideal uptempo number for school festivals as well.

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Hoshino Takashi

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fireworks (launched into the sky)DAOKO × Yonezu Kenshi69rank/position

DAOKO × Kenshi Yonezu 'Uchiage Hanabi' MUSIC VIDEO

This song, which became the theme for the film “Fireworks, Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?”, is a collaboration between singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu and female singer DAOKO.

DAOKO’s bewitching vocals pair perfectly with Yonezu’s somewhat wistful track.

I think this atmosphere connects closely with the film itself.

I’m sure many people took this song as a cue to check out the tracks DAOKO has released under her solo name.

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Hane Keisuke

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Last SongOfisharu Higedan Dism70rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Last Song [Studio Live Session]

The melody is striking in the way it gently wraps both the sadness of parting and the hope that lies beyond.

This song by Official HIGE DANDism expresses the fleeting nature of time as it draws to a close and gratitude toward someone precious, resonating deeply with listeners.

While holding onto the loneliness of joyful days coming to an end, it carries a warm message that makes you want to say “see you again” with a smile at the last moment.

Included on the celebrated 2019 October release Traveler, the song was also featured as an insert track in the drama “Ato 3-kai, Kimi ni Aeru” (“I Can See You Three More Times”).

Sung on the special day of a graduation ceremony, as you look back on the irreplaceable time spent with friends and teachers, it will surely fill the venue with a moving atmosphere.

It will gently encourage the children as they set off on their separate paths.