Ranking of Popular Band Songs Among Junior High School Students [2026]

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN8rank/position

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

BUMP OF CHICKEN’s signature song “Tentai Kansoku” (Stargazing).

Watching this music video reminds me of how I used to look up at the sky over and over with the telescope we had at home, almost every night.

Even though it’s a song from the very beginning of the 21st century, it’s a timeless classic!

horizonback number9rank/position

back number – Horizon

A gem of a ballad delivered by back number, a band that captures listeners’ hearts with poignant lyrics.

Beginning with a gentle piano melody, this song weaves a story about the pain of dreams and hopes suddenly collapsing, and the will to look forward and begin anew.

Many will find their own experiences reflected in the raw, urgent feelings—like a cry for one’s existence—born from unnoticed loneliness.

Created for high school students whose Inter-High was canceled, the song was released on YouTube in August 2020.

It’s a classic that quietly stays by your side when summer fun has passed and a faint loneliness sets in.

spring melancholyMrs. GREEN APPLE10rank/position

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

This song feels like a page from youth, delicately weaving together a range of emotions—sadness, wistfulness, joy, and more.

Infused with the genuine feelings the members of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE had when they graduated high school, it was released in February 2018 and featured in a Suntory “Craft Boss” commercial.

Portraying the complex emotions of parting and growing up—experiences everyone goes through—alongside a beautiful melody, it’s a perfect pick for middle schoolers.

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

DarlingMrs. GREEN APPLE11rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE "Darling" Official Music Video

Mrs.

GREEN APPLE powerfully sings of the struggles and hopes of youth in this song, released in January 2025.

Created as the theme for NHK General’s special program “Mrs.

GREEN APPLE 18 Festival,” it featured a performance with 1,000 eighteen-year-olds that drew widespread acclaim.

Centered on the importance of living authentically as yourself, the piece delicately portrays the feelings of those weighed down by others’ expectations and social pressure.

Its message—keep moving forward by staying true to yourself and listening to your inner voice—is sure to resonate deeply with graduates taking their first steps toward a new chapter.

Blending an emotional melody with an energetic sound, this song offers courage for the future while looking back on days spent with friends.

Only for you, clear skiesYorushika12rank/position

Yorushika – Just Clear Skies for You (MUSIC VIDEO)

This piece is included on the second mini-album released in May 2018, “Losers Don’t Need an Encore.” It’s a nostalgic portrayal that recalls summer scenes spent with someone special, and it tightens your chest as you listen.

It depicts a protagonist who, while growing up, feels the anxiety of falling behind and carries feelings they can’t put into words—something that will surely resonate with junior high school students in the midst of their youth.

Despite the heartrending lyrics, the refreshing tone and melody offer a sense of relief, making it an emotional number.

FateOfisharu Higedan Dism13rank/position

EMG3-0223 Destiny / Official HIGE DANDism [Mixed 3-Part Chorus]

This is a moving song that portrays dreams, passion, setbacks, and growth.

While it symbolizes the fierce battles of high school baseball players, it is also embraced as an anthem that cheers on anyone facing life’s challenges.

Released in July 2019, it was selected as the “2019 ABC Summer High School Baseball Support Song / ‘Netto Koshien’ Theme Song,” capturing the hearts of many.

Official HIGE DANDism’s clear, luminous vocals and relatable lyrics are captivating.

It’s perfect for junior high school students approaching graduation.

If you’re feeling anxious about a new environment or sad about parting with friends, this song will surely give you courage.

ANTENNAMrs. GREEN APPLE14rank/position

Mrs. GREEN APPLE「ANTENNA」Official Music Video

When you can’t stay focused at your desk and your motivation is running low, this is exactly when you should listen to Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s exhilarating, fast-paced rock tune.

It’s the title track that opens their July 2023 album “ANTENNA,” and it was also chosen as the Japan national team’s support song for Fuji TV’s FIVB Paris Olympic Qualifiers/World Cup Volleyball 2023.

Its message—trusting your own sensibilities and moving toward the future—paired with its dynamic sound is sure to lift an anxious heart.

With its shape-shifting development and abundant energy, just listening will recharge your positive power.

It’s the perfect song for moments when you want to reset and boost your motivation, like during breaks from exam study or before club activities.