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

Letter ~Dear Fifteen-Year-Old Me~Anjura Aki76rank/position

Angela Aki “Letter: To You, Fifteen” Music Video (HD)

A heartwarming ballad that gently embraces the worries and uncertainties of adolescence.

Angela Aki’s clear, translucent voice and piano melody offer comfort to the anxiety we all carry.

Released in 2008, the song drew significant attention as the compulsory piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division and as an insert song in the film “Shodo Girls!! Our Koshien.” Its appeal also lies in the grand arrangement that begins with simple piano accompaniment and gradually adds strings and chorus.

It’s a song that resonates in the heart—an anthem that gives you the courage to believe in yourself when you stand at a crossroads in life.

Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster77rank/position

EMF3-0048 Someday These Tears [Women's 3-Part Chorus]

It’s a Little Glee Monster song that resonates as an anthem cheering on those striving toward their dreams.

The members’ powerful yet delicate vocals blend beautifully, gently embracing the strength to never give up in the face of setbacks and hardships, as well as the profound meaning that tears can hold.

Released in January 2018, the song was chosen as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

It’s a heartwarming encouragement song that stands beside those who, through daily practice and challenges, shed tears yet keep moving forward, and those advancing toward their precious goals.

KanadeSukima Suichi78rank/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.

You don’t listen to rock.aimyon79rank/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.

You and the summer music festivalSHISHAMO80rank/position

SHISHAMO “You and the Summer Festival”

Are there people out there imagining what it would be like to go to a summer music festival with that special someone they adore? This song by the three-piece girls’ band SHISHAMO is packed with that kind of sweet, bittersweet youth.

The track is set around a festival date with someone you’re interested in.

It captures both a passion for music and the delicate emotional ups and downs of worrying about how the other person sees you—guaranteed to make your heart flutter.

Released in July 2014, the song is also included on the album “SHISHAMO 2.” It was used as the ending theme for TV Tokyo’s “JAPAN COUNTDOWN,” reaching many listeners.

If you want to start a summer romance, this song will surely give you the courage you need.

It’s also highly recommended for couples to listen to together!