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

Heralding springyama96rank/position

yama – Harbinger of Spring (Official Video)

Despite its bright title, this song stands out for lyrics that portray loneliness and inner conflict.

Released in April 2020 as yama’s first original track under that name, it grew popular mainly on YouTube and TikTok.

It peaked at No.

7 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100, and its total streaming plays have surpassed 300 million.

The song depicts the protagonist chasing their dreams in a cramped room late at night, the fragility of connections on social media, and the pain of performing a perfect self—capturing the genuine feelings of today’s youth.

While it portrays the complex emotions where endings and beginnings intersect, its appeal lies in the resolve to accept them and move forward.

It carries a message that will resonate especially with those at the milestone of graduation, facing farewells to friends and anxieties about new environments.

The crystalline vocals and catchy melody will add color to the day you set out on your journey.

flying boatKing Gnu97rank/position

King Gnu – Hikōtei (Seaplane)

If you’re looking for a rock track with a hefty beat and grand sound that lifts your spirits and gives you a strong push forward, this is the song for you.

One of King Gnu’s signature tunes, it blows away the hesitation that comes from worrying too much about society’s norms and what’s “right,” and gives you the courage to freely chase your dreams.

Released as a single in August 2019, it’s also included on the January 2020 album CEREMONY.

It also made waves for being written specifically for an ANA (All Nippon Airways) TV commercial.

Packed with a fiery message to live with your soul trembling, this song is guaranteed to spark motivation from deep within when you’re feeling worn out from studying or club activities.

Ghost in the FlowersYorushika98rank/position

Yorushika – Ghost in a Flower (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Yorushika’s digital single “Hana ni Bourei,” released in 2020, served as the theme song for the animated film “A Whisker Away.” For adults, it carries a certain nostalgia—perfectly fitting the phrase “faint summer memories” that can bring back those middle school days.

The lyrics include expressions that feel like reminiscing about the past, which further heightens the sense of poignancy.

For those who are currently in middle school, it might be a song that stirs up not so much nostalgia as a bittersweet ache.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

utatane

Report a problem

WanteD! WanteD!Mrs. GREEN APPLE99rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – WanteD! WanteD!

A song by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE that pairs an energetic pop-rock sound with a powerful message.

Since its release in 2017, its fresh melodies and lyrics have resonated with many listeners.

It’s said to be a fan favorite at live shows.

The vivid portrayal of youthful joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness is striking—especially the image of moving forward while confronting one’s own weaknesses.

It’s a track that offers a warm boost, standing by the worries of youth.

You can’t help but feel excited if it plays during an entrance scene! This song also conjures images of growth through a sports day—so let’s give it our all and enjoy it to the fullest!

See?Sakushi: Itou Keiji/Sakki: Matsushita Kou100rank/position

“See?” Hata Boys & Girls Choir “Horane”

This is a heartwarming choral piece born as part of the “Sing NIPPON Project,” which was launched to support recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Created through a collaboration between Keiji Ito and Ko Matsushita and released in July 2011, the work gently sings of the harmony of nature and the bonds between people.

Its friendly melody brings listeners comfort and hope, and its structure makes it easy to perform even for school class choirs.

The vocal range is not very wide, making it a practical choice for choral competitions as well.