High School Students’ Favorite Band Songs Ranking [2026]

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN8rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

Released in March 2001, this BUMP OF CHICKEN song was also used as an insert track for the drama “Tentaikansoku” (Stargazing).

The image of the protagonist gazing up at the starry sky while reflecting on their future and relationships is striking.

The lyrics capture the drive to chase dreams and the struggle with reality, resonating deeply with listeners.

It’s a song we especially recommend to those facing worries and uncertainties in their youth.

Listen to it while looking up at the night sky, and you’re sure to find courage.

OrangeSPYAIR9rank/position

SPYAIR “Orange” Music Video (Theme Song for Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle: The Movie)

It became a massive hit as the theme song for the 2024 film Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle.

The same track was also chosen as the theme song for TBS Television and BS-TBS’s Volleyball Nations League 2024, powerfully expressing the passion of young people who devote their youth to volleyball, and marking a revival of the long-standing collaboration between SPYAIR and Haikyu!!.

It’s a rock ballad characteristic of SPYAIR, with easy-to-catch pitches that help you score steadily in karaoke.

The melody is basically structured so you can sing each phrase carefully.

It builds toward the latter half, and the vocal melody changes slightly in the final chorus, so it’s a good idea to review that part thoroughly.

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Kubota Mami

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PretenderOfisharu Higedan Dism10rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Pretender [Official Video]

A four-piece piano rock band that has taken Japan’s music scene by storm with their sharp pop sensibility and performance chops, Official HIGE DANDism’s second single.

Although it was released in 2019, its explosive popularity makes it a song that practically everyone in Japan has heard.

It opens with an unforgettable guitar arpeggio, followed by a pop, catchy melody that really hits home.

Since it’s an extremely famous track, it’s a number that any band with a keyboard player should definitely try.

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Hoshino Takashi

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together; along with; bothWANIMA11rank/position

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

This song, which celebrates friendship, hope, and the strength to overcome hardship, fills listeners with energy and courage.

WANIMA’s exhilarating, fast-paced sound and positive message stand by those who continue to face challenges, serving as a powerful support.

Released in August 2016 as the theme song for Nivea Kao’s “8×4” commercial, it also carries the members’ deep love for their hometown of Kumamoto and their hopes for its recovery.

Included on the album “Are You Coming?”, the track was also performed at the 2017 NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

With its strong message, the song brings the perfect blend of excitement and refreshment for a school sports day’s exit scene.

It is expected to heighten the sense of unity in the venue, along with the children’s feelings of accomplishment and emotion after giving their all in competition.

Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number12rank/position

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

This classic song by back number captures the bittersweet unrequited love that everyone has experienced.

In front of the person he likes, he’s nothing more than “a friend of a friend.” Even so, you can’t help but relate to the protagonist who just wants to see her smile and say “good morning.” Released in June 2013, the song was featured in a Kirin Beer commercial in 2019 and performed at the 73rd NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen in 2022, showing how it’s been loved for years.

It’s perfect for a shy high school boy who gets nervous in front of his crush.

Sing it at karaoke, and your honest feelings are sure to reach the one you like.

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism13rank/position

Official HIGE DANDism – Fate [Official Video]

Official HIGE DANDism is a band that has gained popularity for their piercingly high-toned vocals and classic, mainstream pop sound.

This song they perform is an energetic number where piano and brass tones layer together and gradually build in intensity.

It stands by the conflicts and anxieties you face before a big challenge, singing as if to powerfully push you forward.

Released as a single in July 2019 and included on the masterpiece album “Traveler,” it was also selected that year as the “ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song” and the theme for the TV program “Netto Koshien.” It’s perfect as opening BGM for cultural and school festivals, or for brass band performances.

A highly recommended track that fires up the heart and colors a page of youth.

About meMrs. GREEN APPLE14rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – About Me

A song produced as the official cheer anthem for the 97th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Rather than irresponsibly telling people who are striving to “hang in there,” it carries a message that every single day is a miracle, including the experiences of broken dreams and discouragement.

It sensitively portrays the feelings of acknowledging differences between oneself and others and the resolve to move forward despite anxiety, leaving listeners with a refreshing, positive outlook—an ode to life.

In 2022, an orchestral arrangement was featured as the song for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Calorie Mate commercial, drawing renewed attention as a track that supports exam takers.

It’s a song we especially recommend to those marking the milestone of graduation or standing on the brink of a new challenge.