Hype it up! Western songs to rock your school festival
At school festivals and cultural festivals, there are regional differences, but many schools play background music.
Of course, you can play Japanese songs, but some might feel that Western music is better since the lyrics are less distracting.
So this time, we’ve selected Western songs that can liven up a school or cultural festival!
From timeless classics to the latest hits, we’ve picked a wide range.
We’ve also chosen some stylish tracks, so you should find songs that fit even a calm, café-style booth.
Be sure to check them out.
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- [March 2026] Trending Songs: A roundup of the hottest viral tracks right now
- [Youth Anthems] A curated selection of popular and latest songs to hype up your school cultural festival
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- Youthful songs recommended as theme songs and openings for cultural and school festivals
- Cool Western music bands. Recommended overseas bands that will get you pumped just by listening.
Fire it up! Western songs that hype up school culture festivals (21–30)
StrangersKenya Grace

Kenya Grace is a South Africa–born, UK-raised singer-songwriter known for her style that fuses modern electronic pop with drum and bass.
Her much-talked-about new track, released in September 2023 as her major-label debut single, offers insightful reflections on shifting relationships and changing views on romance in the digital age.
The melodic chorus leaves a strong impression, while the drum and bass rhythms add irresistible energy.
With its live, high-impact feel, it seems like the kind of song that would really go off when dropped at school festivals or cultural events.
STAYThe Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber

The work “STAY,” a collaboration between Australian sensation The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber, has enjoyed tremendous popularity.
Released in 2021, the song continued to be a hit into 2022.
It features a melody centered on 1980s-style synth-pop, a hallmark trend of the 2020s.
As a result, it has a highly upbeat, catchy vibe that anyone can enjoy.
Given its long-running success, playing this song at a school festival is sure to get a great reaction.
Hype It Up! Western Songs to Energize Culture and School Festivals (31–40)
Shake It OffTaylor Swift

Global songstress Taylor Swift is a must to liven up any school festival.
This song is easy for a band to perform, and it would also be perfect as BGM for stage dance.
Doing a cheer dance like in the music video is recommended, too.
Foxey LadyThe Jimi Hendrix Experience

If the band’s guitarist is confident in their playing skills, covering Jimi Hendrix is one strategy.
Just wear an afro wig and psychedelic clothes, and it’s easy to imitate his signature look.
The vocals can be done with sheer energy too, so it’s sure to get the crowd going.
Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles

While getting the crowd excited is important, the top priority is to perform songs that we ourselves are satisfied with.
If you simply want people to hear a great song, the Eagles’ “Hotel California” is an excellent choice.
Most people probably only know the chorus, so let’s sing it with all our hearts.
Back In BlackAC/DC

These days, many universities have a lot of international students, so people from abroad might visit the campus festival live show.
In that case, a globally renowned band with even greater recognition than you might imagine in Japan is AC/DC.
If you cover this song, the audience will go wild.
FlowersMiley Cyrus

“Flowers” is a rapidly rising hit by American singer-songwriter Miley Cyrus.
She debuted in 2008 with her first album, “Breakout,” and she’s popular in Japan as well, so it’s a great pick that even people who don’t usually listen to Western music can easily get excited about together.
The song has a mysterious vibe that seems like it would pair well with that kind of dance, too! It’s hugely popular on music streaming services and beyond, so it’s also a top recommendation for anyone looking for stylish Western music.



