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

proofflumpool64rank/position

flumpool “Proof” Music Video (Full Chorus ver.)

Hearing flumpool’s “Akashi” playing on the field during the closing ceremony is truly moving.

This song carries a warm message, and it feels like it stays close to the children, who sense something and have given their all throughout the sports day.

When it echoes across the grounds, you can’t help but be touched.

It’s a song that gives courage to children stepping forward into the future, so please give it a listen.

The sense of accomplishment from a day of hard work may deeply resonate in your heart.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

mayumi

Report a problem

PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism65rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]

A four-piece piano rock band that has taken Japan’s music scene by storm with their sharp pop sensibility and performance chops, Official HIGE DANDism’s second single.

Although it was released in 2019, its explosive popularity makes it a song that practically everyone in Japan has heard.

It opens with an unforgettable guitar arpeggio, followed by a pop, catchy melody that really hits home.

Since it’s an extremely famous track, it’s a number that any band with a keyboard player should definitely try.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hoshino Takashi

Report a problem

ChessboardOfisharu Higedan Dism66rank/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.

A view I’ve never seen beforeSuda Masaki67rank/position

Masaki Suda “A Scenery I’ve Never Seen”

This is Masaki Suda’s debut track, packed with passion through its driving rock sound and powerful vocals.

Released in June 2017, the song earnestly portrays people who keep moving forward even while covered in mud.

Its message, full of determination and passion toward the future, was featured in au’s “au BLUE CHALLENGE” series and resonated with many listeners.

The track is included on the album “PLAY” and garnered high acclaim, reaching No.

3 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

It’s also perfect as entrance music for athletes at school sports days, gently yet powerfully pushing forward everyone who is striving to face ahead.

We AreONE OK ROCK68rank/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.

Zankyo SankaAimer69rank/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.

Walking with youNovelbright70rank/position

Novelbright – Walking with you [Official Music Video]

This is a coming-of-age number whose straightforward feelings and moving melody resonate in the heart.

Its powerful message—singing of the resolve and hope to walk through life with the one you love—inevitably stirs your emotions.

Released in October 2018 as the lead track of the album “SKYWALK,” it also drew attention as an insert song for AbemaTV’s “Koisuru Weekend Homestay 2020 Spring.” Novelbright’s sound, blending strength with wistfulness, is beautifully expressed through Takenaka’s soaring vocals.

If you sing it at a school festival, you’ll be able to fully showcase both your vocal ability and expressiveness!