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

YELLikimonogakari43rank/position

[Chorus] YELL (Mixed Choir in Three Parts)

A song by Ikimonogakari that captured the hearts of young people as an anthem encouraging the courage to reflect on your past self and take a step forward.

It offers a warm message that stands by anyone facing anxiety or doubts on the path to their dreams and gives them a gentle push toward a new beginning.

After its release in September 2009, it drew major attention, including earning the group their first No.

1 on the Oricon charts.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing on special days spent with friends—at graduation ceremonies, school events, and the culminating stages of club activities.

skySakushi: SKY-HI / Sakkyoku: UTA, LOAR, SKY-HI44rank/position

[NHK School Choir Contest 2025 Junior High Division Set Piece] Sora [Mixed Three-Part Chorus]

A song by SKY-HI released in 2025 as the compulsory piece for the NHK All-Japan School Music Competition, Junior High School Division.

Featuring a warm, piano-driven melody and lyrics that convey a message to today’s youth who grapple with anxiety and inner conflict, this piece leaves a strong impression.

Arranged for choir by Masanori Kato, it is structured to be easy for middle school students to sing.

It’s an encouraging anthem that gives listeners the courage to move forward with their friends—without hiding their vulnerabilities or worries, and while embracing their true selves.

Be sure to check out the BE:FIRST version as well, which offers a different vibe.

My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS45rank/position

RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (movie ver.) [Official Music Video]

This is a RADWIMPS song created for director Makoto Shinkai’s animated film, singing of a fateful love that transcends time.

It’s a pop tune that conveys strength amid poignancy, marked by energetic guitar sounds and a driving, up-tempo rhythm.

Included on the album “Your Name.” released in August 2016, the track drew major attention alongside the film’s mega-hit success, and it’s also beloved as a staple at school festivals where everyone can get excited together.

If you simplify the guitar and drum rhythm parts, it can be enjoyed in performance regardless of skill level.

Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)Yonezu Kenshi46rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)

The day of parting will inevitably come someday…

Until that moment arrives, let’s cherish the time we have with friends and those we love—this is a poignant ballad that makes you feel exactly that.

It’s a collaboration between singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu and actor Masaki Suda, included on Yonezu’s 2017 album “BOOTLEG.” The lyrics, which simply dwell on someone far away, truly hit home.

It’s an emotional masterpiece that I want not only middle schoolers but also working adults to listen to.

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Araki Jakkan

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Brother BeatSnow Man47rank/position

Snow Man “Brother Beat” Dance Practice

If you want to capture the attention of the entire student body at your school festival, we recommend “Brother Beat.” Released in 2022 by the male idol group Snow Man, known for their acrobatics and dance, the song was chosen as the theme for the film “Osomatsu-san.” Its humorous choral work set to a rock-inspired rhythm is striking.

Dance to this refreshing track that everyone can enjoy, and it’s sure to heat up the crowd.

If you’re looking for stylish and passionate music, give it a listen!

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mutō

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The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell48rank/position

[Available until July 14, 2025] Bakemonogatari ED “The Story You Don’t Know” supercell Original Audio 4K High Quality Full AAC-LC – 320 kbps

supercell is a creator team formed around composer ryo, bringing together creators such as designers and illustrators.

Their song “Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari” is an emotional pop-rock piece whose beautiful piano and guitar accompaniment, together with vocalist nagi’s voice, evokes a beautiful yet bittersweet summer.

The emotional melody—something almost any Japanese listener would fall in love with—is so memorable that you’ll recall it after just one listen.

It’s a recommended track for those slightly wistful moments, like the end of summer!

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Yuuki

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Que sera, seraMrs. GREEN APPLE49rank/position

[Step Practice, Easy Choreography, Sports Day Dance] Que Sera Sera - Mrs. GREEN APPLE [Kindergarten, Nursery School, Sports Day, Recital, Kids Dance]

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s “Que Sera Sera,” which portrays the belief in a bright future, is a perfect song for fun dance time.

The choreography also expresses fun with movements like spreading your arms wide and light steps, enhancing the mood of the song.

If matching the song’s rhythm makes the movements too intricate, try simplifying by making one move over two beats, so more people can enjoy the dance.

It’s also important to be mindful of facial expressions and use your whole body to convey a joyful atmosphere.

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kappamaki

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