High School Students’ Favorite Band Songs Ranking [2026]

Happy Endingback number85rank/position

back number – Happy End (full)

Produced in November 2016 as the theme song for the film “My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday,” this piece portrays the poignant feelings of a woman who has decided to part ways.

Though her love remains, she suffers because she must leave the person she cares for.

Inside, the pain makes her want to cry, yet she puts on a brave face and pretends to be fine with a smile.

These complex emotions are expressed with delicate nuance.

Written and composed by Iyori Shimizu and co-arranged with Takeshi Kobayashi, the song reached No.

3 on the Oricon weekly chart and was certified Double Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

It is a song that deeply resonates with those who, despite the pain of heartbreak, are trying to move forward, and with anyone who has experienced parting from someone dear.

companion; comrade; friend; fellow; teammate; allyKetsumeishi86rank/position

Ketsumeishi “Nakama” Full Ver.

Ketsumeishi’s “Nakama” is the perfect song that makes you want to link arms and sing together at the closing ceremony of a sports day.

The friends who fought alongside you are comrades-in-arms at the event, but they’re also the companions you spend your days with.

It’s a song that feels like it can help you build a relationship where you praise each other and say “good job” with genuine appreciation.

The bonds among the children, strengthened through the sports day, may deepen even further.

Be sure to give this song with its comfortable tempo and unpretentious lyrics a listen.

It’ll make for a wonderful sports day!

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mayumi

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I LOVE…Ofisharu Higedan Dism87rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – I LOVE… [Official Video]

This is a song chosen as the theme for the drama “Koi wa Tsuzuku yo Doko made mo” (Love Lasts Forever).

As the title “I LOVE…” suggests, it’s a love song about love.

Still, the way it turns a love song into something so stylish, cool, and powerful makes you want to say, “That’s Official Hige Dandism for you!” You could sing it to someone you love, or perhaps turn your feelings for the people and things around you into song.

It’s a track I’d love for you to sing out loud yourself.

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satou-san

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spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE88rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Spring Melancholy (Chorus ver.) by Waseda Jitsugyo School Music Club, Chorus Section

It’s a song that delicately weaves together a range of emotions—sadness, poignancy, joy—like a page from youthful days.

Imbued with the band members’ genuine feelings from when Mrs.

GREEN APPLE graduated high school, it was released in February 2018 and featured in Suntory’s “Craft Boss” commercial.

Portraying the complex emotions of parting and growth that everyone experiences, along with a beautiful melody, it’s a perfect track for high schoolers in the midst of youth.

Especially during the graduation season, when joy and loneliness intertwine, it will bring a warm light to those who struggle to fully express their true, honest feelings.

C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK89rank/position

ONE OK ROCK – C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h. [Official Music Video]

This is a powerful song that celebrates youthful passion and friendship, included on the album “Zankyō Reference,” released in October 2011.

Within its heavy sound that fuses metalcore and post-hardcore, ONE OK ROCK’s signature refreshing melodies shine through.

It portrays the earnest determination of young people who, carrying the bonds and memories shared with their friends, move forward into the future.

The track was also used as the ending theme for the TV program “To the Top of the Earth: Fumita Kuriki’s New Challenge.” It’s a perfect choice as BGM for school sports days and athletic festivals, resonating deeply with teammates who sweat together and encourage one another.

GIFTMr.Children90rank/position

Mr.Children「GIFT」Music Video(Short ver.)

“GIFT,” the 32nd single released in 2008 by Mr.Children, a nationally beloved band.

The song was also used as NHK’s theme for the Beijing Olympics held that year.

Many fans span two generations—parent and child—which shows just how widely loved the band is across age groups.

This track is sure to liven up any karaoke session regardless of age or gender.

Its lyrics are deeply moving, making it a song that is sure to touch the hearts of those who listen.

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utatane

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All of the YouthFujifaburikku91rank/position

Fujifabric – Youth of Everything

A coming-of-age song by Fuji Fabric that beautifully captures the wistfulness and beauty felt at summer’s end.

Released as a single in November 2007, it featured numerous tie-ins, including serving as the opening theme for the music program “Oto Moe!”.

The lyrics, which depict the regret and lingering attachment to passing time, along with the anxiety and hope that accompany change, strike a powerful chord with listeners.

Its lyrical melody and resonant words are sure to make a moving opener for school and cultural festivals.

An imperishable masterpiece that students who cherish their passing days should definitely hear.