A wonderful classic

What songs are popular among elementary schoolers? Well-known and sing-along favorites! [2026]

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

These days, you can listen to songs and watch music videos through various social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

Of course, many adults do, but I think a lot of elementary school kids watch them too.

This time, we’ll be introducing songs that are popular among elementary school students, as well as highly well-known tracks!

We’ve gathered plenty of songs that today’s elementary schoolers often hear—like dance numbers that blew up on social media and tracks used as theme songs for popular anime—so please read to the end!

If there are any songs you don’t know, be sure to give them a listen!

Now, let’s get started.

What songs are popular among elementary school kids? Well-known and sing-along hits! [2026] (61–70)

Overdosenatori

Natori – Overdose

Overdosenatori

Singer-songwriter Natori.

The work that catapulted his name into the spotlight is “Overdose.” It has a laid-back vibe, with lyrics that bare the feelings of a man after a breakup.

The city-pop-inspired, danceable sound makes it perfect for when you want to get hyped as well.

Some less familiar phrases appear in the lyrics, but looking up their meanings helps you grasp the world of the song more deeply.

Also, Ado’s cover version has been getting attention, so be sure to listen to that too.

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Aim to be a Pokémon MasterSatoshi (CV: Matsumoto Rika)

Satoshi（CV:Rica Matsumoto） – Mezase Pokémon Master -with my friends- / THE FIRST TAKE

Aim to be a Pokémon MasterSatoshi (CV: Matsumoto Rika)

“Mezase Pokémon Master” is a song released in 1997 as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon.

It is sung by Rica Matsumoto, who also voices the main character Ash in the anime, and it reached No.

7 on the Oricon singles chart.

The song has been remade multiple times—such as the 1998, 2001, and 2002 versions—and has been beloved by children of various generations.

In 2023, Matsumoto appeared on the hugely popular YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE and performed “Mezase Pokémon Master.”

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Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSIC CLIP YouTube EDIT ver.-

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA

This is the 15th single by female singer LiSA, used as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, which became a social phenomenon and is beloved by a wide range of people from elementary school children to adults.

Starting with the B-melody vocals and leading into a heavy intro, the song’s structure is a brilliant device that cranks the excitement to the max right from the opening.

Though categorized as an anime song, it became hugely popular not only among children but also adults, making it one of the defining rock tunes of 2020.

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Hoshino Takashi

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ASOBONiziU

NiziU(니쥬) Digital Single 「ASOBO」 M/V

ASOBONiziU

This is a digital single released in April 2022 by the nine-member girl group NiziU.

Speaking of NiziU, they’re known for the Japan–Korea joint global audition project “Nizi Project.” Many people probably cheered them on as a family while watching on TV.

The song was used as the campaign track for the fruit soda “Fanta,” and became a hot topic along with footage of the members in school uniforms flashing brilliant smiles.

NiziU’s songs are also known for their easy-to-remember, cute choreography.

Paired with moves that feel like an invitation—“Come play with us!”—let’s all have fun singing and dancing together!

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peace signYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Peace Sign

peace signYonezu Kenshi

Characterized by a rhythmic, catchy melody, this piece overflows with bright, forward-looking energy.

The heartfelt lyrics depict overcoming hardship and growing through it, carrying a powerful message.

The melody line shifts from phrase to phrase, gripping the listener’s heart and never letting go.

Chosen as the opening theme for season 2 of the anime My Hero Academia, it was included on Kenshi Yonezu’s third album, BOOTLEG, released in June 2017.

It’s no surprise that it’s often sung even among elementary school students.

Dramatic yet approachable, this work offers encouragement and courage to everyone walking a difficult path.

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First Lovenaniwa danshi

Naniwa Danshi – First Love (Ubu Love) [Music Video Dance ver.]

First Lovenaniwa danshi

The popular Johnny’s group Naniwa Danshi and their debut single, “Ubu LOVE.” Dressed in pink outfits and dancing with beaming smiles, the song captures their freshness and cuteness—no doubt winning over many hearts.

Even lyrics that might feel embarrassingly cheesy somehow come off as breezy and endearing when sung by Naniwa Danshi—how curious is that? They even made the top 10 in Benesse’s “Things Elementary School Students Were Into This Year” ranking.

Be sure to check out their other songs too!

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Spot the differenceSuda Masaki

Masaki Suda 'Machigai Sagashi' (Spot the Difference)

Spot the differenceSuda Masaki

With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, this masterpiece captivates listeners.

Released in June 2019, it was also chosen as the theme song for the drama “Perfect World” starring Tori Matsuzaka.

Masaki Suda’s warm vocals blend beautifully with the poetic world crafted by Kenshi Yonezu, resulting in a song that gently resonates with the listener’s heart.

The work explores the search for “mistakes” and “right answers” in life, expressing the beauty and loneliness that dwell in everyday moments.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you pause amid a busy day and face yourself.

It’s beloved by a wide range of people, from elementary school students to adults.

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