[Elementary School Students] Popular Japanese Music / J-POP Rankings [By Generation]

YELLikimonogakari57rank/position

Ikimono-gakari “YELL” Music Video

A moving ballad by Ikimono-gakari, known as the set piece for the NHK National School Music Competition’s junior high division.

The lyrics convey that parting isn’t something sad but an important first step toward the future, gently supporting the hearts of elementary school students facing graduation or moving up a grade.

Included on their 15th single “YELL/Joyful,” released in September 2009, the song became the group’s first to reach No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

You can feel its message of heading toward tomorrow as yourself, even while feeling anxiety and loneliness.

Listen to it when you’re reluctant to say goodbye to friends yet want the courage to fly into a new world—you’re sure to receive a warm cheer.

ParadiseNiziU58rank/position

NiziU(니쥬) 5th Single「Paradise」M/V

This is the theme song for the film Doraemon: Nobita’s Sky Utopia, announced by NiziU in July 2023.

Composed and produced by Stray Kids, the song carries a message encouraging listeners to recognize the treasures close at hand.

NiziU’s characteristically bright, hopeful vibe meshes beautifully with the ballad style.

Each member’s vocals are expressed with rich emotion, resonating with listeners.

It also pairs perfectly with the film’s world, so singing it after watching the movie will make it even more enjoyable.

It’s a track that showcases NiziU’s growth and musical diversity—be sure to check it out!

Tattayuzu59rank/position

Yuzu - Tatta

When it comes to Japanese duos known for their fresh, pop-infused songs, Yuzu definitely comes to mind.

They’re beloved by a wide range of ages, from the young to the elderly.

Since they also have songs for children, they’re likely very popular among elementary school students as well.

Tatta is a perfect song for elementary schoolers who are working hard toward their dreams and goals.

It carries a positive message from Yuzu: it’s not just about winning or losing—having the courage to take on challenges and learning from failures helps you grow.

The simple arrangement, led by guitar and tambourine, also makes it very easy to listen to!

Kaikai KitanEVE60rank/position

Kaikai Kitan – Eve MV

A singer-songwriter who has been active mainly on the internet as both a utaite and a Vocaloid producer, Eve made his major-label debut in 2019.

This track is his fourth major release and a digital-only single.

Chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen, it’s a number that showcases a Vocaloid producer’s characteristically intricate and thrilling melodies, as well as his prowess as a vocalist who can deliver them with ease.

With a structure that’s complex yet catchy, the song evokes the sound of a new era in music.

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Hoshino Takashi

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monsterYOASOBI61rank/position

YOASOBI “Monster” Official Music Video (YOASOBI – Monster)

BEASTARS is an anime that drew attention with its tense storyline featuring animals attending school.

YOASOBI’s “Kaibutsu” was chosen as the opening theme for its second season.

Released digitally in 2021, it’s a popular track that has also been covered by well-known artists such as Masayuki Suzuki.

The soundscape that unfolds from the undulating bass line is incredibly sophisticated—once you hear it, you’ll find it hard to escape its world.

The way the chorus suddenly opens up your field of vision is also a signature touch of theirs.

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Araki Jakkan

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HarukaYOASOBI62rank/position

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

This is a song that fills you with warmth and makes you want to express gratitude to someone special.

Released in December 2020, it’s a work by YOASOBI, the hugely popular unit known for turning novels into music.

Based on Osamu Suzuki’s novel “Tsuki Ōji” (Moon Prince), it tells a story from the perspective of a mug, watching over the growth of the girl who owns it.

The piece is captivating for its gently enveloping melody and ikura’s clear, translucent vocals.

As spring brings both meetings and farewells, listen while thinking of the teachers, friends, and family who have supported you.

It’s a moving masterpiece that naturally brings forth feelings of “thank you.”

SmileMori Nana63rank/position

Nana Mori - Smile (Music Video)

Smile, covered and released by Nana Mori—who is also active as an actress—in 2020, became a hot topic when it was featured as the theme song for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Oronamin C commercial.

With its simple structure and easy melody, it’s perfect for elementary school beginners at karaoke! Practicing its easy-to-remember phrases will help build confidence in singing.

Have the adults and friends around join in with claps and chorus to liven things up.

It’s a heartwarming song that spreads children’s adorable smiles.

Be sure to check out this pop tune that will brighten up the karaoke room.

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mutō

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