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

My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS43rank/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.

Promise of SunflowersHata Motohiro44rank/position

Promise of Sunflowers [from the 25th Owariasahi Children’s Choir Regular Concert]

Written as the theme song for the film “STAND BY ME Doraemon,” this piece became one of Motohiro Hata’s signature works.

Released as a single in August 2014, it is also included on the albums “Ao no Koukei” and “All Time Best Hata Motohiro.” Many listeners were undoubtedly moved by its lyrics, which portray the warmth of those who stay by our side and the unchanging bonds that endure even when we’re apart.

Widely loved as well for its use in NTT West’s commercials, the melody is so well-known that anyone can hum along.

This song, which reminds us that the ordinary moments spent with friends are priceless, is the perfect choice for a graduation ceremony to say “thank you” to teachers and peers who have supported you.

Gray and Blue (+Masaki Suda)Yonezu Kenshi45rank/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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RPGSEKAI NO OWARI46rank/position

SEKAI NO OWARI「RPG」

SEKAI NO OWARI’s “RPG,” perfect for a closing ceremony, has a good tempo and is also recommended for the exit march.

It’s a song that will let you feel fulfilled and accomplished after taking part in the sports day with your classmates and having fun together.

In the end, the entire venue will surely become one, with everyone holding hands for a moving moment.

The powerful vocals and the band’s performance make it a song that sends encouragement to children stepping into the future.

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mayumi

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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 latest work, which depicts a belief in a bright future, is a perfect song for a fun dance time, isn’t it? The choreography—featuring big, open arm movements and light steps that express joy—helps emphasize the song’s vibe.

If syncing precisely to the rhythm makes the moves too intricate, you can make each move span two beats to keep things more relaxed, allowing more people to enjoy the dance.

It’s also important to be mindful of your facial expressions and convey the cheerful mood with your whole body.

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kappamaki

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