High School Students’ Favorite Band Songs Ranking [2026]

broad daylightKing Gnu36rank/position

[Mixed Chorus] Hakujitsu – King Gnu

One of the signature songs by the rock band King Gnu, which exploded in popularity in 2019.

The high notes by vocalist Mr.

Iguchi in the intro are striking, and I think it’s widely recognized as a high-difficulty song for karaoke.

How about taking on this notoriously difficult piece as a choral arrangement? In a choir, you can divide parts by vocal range, which might actually make it easier to tackle.

While the original is a rock song, if you arrange it for chorus and perform it beautifully, you’re sure to feel a great sense of accomplishment!

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Hane Keisuke

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You and the summer music festivalSHISHAMO37rank/position

SHISHAMO “You and the Summer Festival”

When it comes to summer songs and summer festivals, this is the one! SHISHAMO’s “Kimi to Natsu Fes.” Released in 2014 as their debut single, it’s become one of the band’s signature tracks and a staple at summer festivals.

The song paints a heart-fluttering scene of a couple who’ve only just started dating going on a summer festival date—fresh and sweet.

The girl’s feelings—“I want to enjoy the fest, but will he think I’m too much?”—are adorable worries that many can totally relate to!

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utatane

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Wanted WantedMrs. GREEN APPLE38rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – WanteD! WanteD!

This song is notable for its exhilarating sound that vividly captures the emotions of youth.

Released in August 2017 as Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s fifth single, it was also used as the opening theme for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “We Did It.” The lyrics deftly portray modern young people who run from their own weaknesses, while also weaving in irony toward conservative adults, resulting in a message that resonates with many.

It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for class performances or karaoke, and a perfect song for friends to sing together—one that offers comfort to students dealing with pressure and stress.

Live in the present.Saucy Dog39rank/position

Saucy Dog “Live in the present.” Music Video

Powerfully singing of youthful passion and hope, this Saucy Dog track was created as a cheer anthem for the 101st All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

Portraying growth through overcoming setbacks and hardship, bonds with teammates, and the courage to move forward while staying true to oneself, the song deeply resonates with young people navigating high school life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Released in December 2022, it has become an indispensable fan favorite at their live shows, giving a strong push not only to soccer players but also to students working hard every day for their clubs and school events.

Mela!Ryokushokushakai40rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

Even when you sit down at your desk, you just can’t stay focused… this is a song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai you should listen to at times like that.

Its sprightly beat that makes you want to move and the bright sound of brass will instantly lift your sunken mood.

Cherishing the impulse of “Now’s the time!” and striving to change yourself, its positive message will surely give a powerful push to your efforts toward your goals.

It was released in April 2020 as an advance single from the album SINGALONG.

When you’re feeling sleepy or want to make a final sprint, listen to it and you’ll feel energy welling up from within.

Perfect-Sense DreamerONE OK ROCK41rank/position

ONE OK ROCK "The Totally Sensational Dreamer"

A heart-pounding rock tune that gives you a push on the back—“trust your instincts and carve out your future!” Released by ONE OK ROCK in February 2010, this song prioritizes instinct over logic, powerfully voicing a message from youth determined to move forward despite a mix of confidence and anxiety.

It was chosen as the ending theme for TBS’s “Arabiki-dan” and reached No.

9 on the Oricon weekly chart.

The surprise performance at their Tokyo Dome show in April 2023 sent many fans into a frenzy.

With its energetic, unforgettable melody, it gives you the courage to believe in yourself and sprint toward your dreams—a go-to number to fire up any school festival live.

Dear, boyHump Back42rank/position

Hump Back – “Dear, Boy” Music Video

A major-label debut single from Hump Back whose exhilarating rock sound sets your heart on fire.

Written by vocalist Momoko Hayashi with her high school bandmates in mind, this song is a cheer anthem that stands by the anxieties and setbacks of chasing dreams and gives you the courage to face forward again.

Released in June 2018, it was featured in numerous tie-ins, including the Shinken Zemi High School Course TV commercial and as the theme song for Kumamoto Asahi Broadcasting’s “102nd National High School Baseball Championship Kumamoto Tournament.” Its straightforward, powerful message and driving melody are a perfect match for a heated relay race.

It’s sure to give a strong push to the runners passing the baton, so consider choosing it as BGM to fire up your sports day.