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

User ManualNishino Kana50rank/position

Kana Nishino 'Torisetsu' MV (Short Ver.)

A pop tune that humorously captures a girl’s feelings! The instruction-manual-like lyrics feel fresh and really convey the delicate emotions of women.

Kana Nishino’s soft vocals charmingly portray the complexities of a woman’s heart.

Released in September 2015, the song was also used as the theme for the film “No Longer Heroine” released the same year.

Popular at weddings, this track might even help men better understand women’s feelings.

It could be nice for couples to listen together and reaffirm each other’s feelings.

InfernoMrs. GREEN APPLE51rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Inferno

How about a rock number with a sound that amps you up from the intro and irresistibly sharp, cutting vocals? Crafted by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE, this track was chosen as the opening theme for the anime Fire Force.

Since Motoki Omori, who handles vocals and guitar, was a fan of the original manga, he distilled its worldview into the music.

It was released digitally in July 2019 and is also included on their album Attitude.

According to Oricon’s figures, its cumulative streaming plays surpassed 500 million by 2025, showing its enduring popularity.

With a sound that exquisitely balances “darkness” and “a sense of speed,” it’s perfect BGM for a competition where everything is decided right here and now!

ultramarineYOASOBI52rank/position

YOASOBI “Gunjou” Official Music Video

This track is also the theme song for the nationwide high school dance club support initiative “Dance ONE Project ’21,” and it’s a great fit for dance classes.

While the song doesn’t have a fixed choreography, there is a routine released by the Dance ONE Project ’21, so it could be a good idea to try copying that.

The project’s choreography keeps the rhythm while capturing the mood of the lyrics, making it easy to incorporate into lessons.

The lyrics—about things you love and the conflicts surrounding them—are perfect for junior high school students, so I think it will be easy to work with in terms of expression!

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Fukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda

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Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai53rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

Ryokuoushoku Shakai’s “Hazukashii ka Seishun wa” is a perfect fit for dance class, especially given its lyrical content.

Centered on the theme of youth, its exhilarating melody seems like a song that can help nurture individuality and expression in creative dance lessons.

The lyrics, which resonate with students’ feelings, should make it easy for middle schoolers to engage in creative dance—thinking up movements that match the words, marking steps to the rhythm, and dancing comfortably.

By all means, use this track to make your creative dance class a fun one!

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Fukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda

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One moreFUNKY MONKEY BABYS54rank/position

FUNKY MONKEY BABYS “One More”

A classic cheer song! This signature track by FUNKY MONKEY BABYS—a group that gained popularity with a style that blends J-pop with hip-hop elements—was released in August 2010.

“Ato Hitotsu,” a timeless masterpiece etched in many people’s memories as a summer high school baseball cheer song, is also included on the album “Funky Monkey Babys 4.” Its lyrics carry the message that even in tough situations, taking just one more step can bring you closer to your dreams, stirring the hearts of listeners.

It’s guaranteed to amplify emotional moments, from entrance marches to climactic competitions.

A perfect number to send a passionate cheer to everyone giving their all at sports days and athletic festivals!

I should be able to fly (in the sky).supittsu55rank/position

Spitz / I Should Be Able to Fly in the Sky

On the day you set off on a new journey, you naturally want to listen to songs that make you feel grateful for having met your classmates and teachers.

“Sora mo Toberu Hazu” (“We Could Even Fly in the Sky”), released by Spitz in 1994, features Kusano’s crystalline vocals that lift your spirits.

The bittersweet lyrics prompt you to look back on your school days, and the catchy melody makes it easy to sing along.

The chorus lyrics, which make you feel like you can go anywhere, are perfect for singing on graduation day!

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mutō

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We againSG56rank/position

We Again (Wind Ensemble ver.) – SG (Official Behind-the-Scenes Music Video)

This work by SG has gained support as an encouraging song that resonates deeply during graduations and farewells.

Its gentle melody, which accompanies young people as they overcome partings and take new steps forward, and its lyrics filled with hope for reunion are especially appealing.

Released in April 2021, it has become a popular track with a cumulative 150 million streams.

Starting in November 2024, it has also been featured in Calorie Mate’s exam-season support commercial, and a concert band version by the Hanazono Tokuei High School Wind Ensemble has been making waves.

It’s a heartwarming song for farewells, graduation ceremonies, and moments when you long to see someone special again.

It’s a recommended track for times when you want to cherish your memories while looking ahead and doing your best.