Western pop music popular with Gen Z. Hit songs.

Counting StarsOneRepublic

OneRepublic – Counting Stars

Released in 2013 by American pop-rock band OneRepublic, this song is included on the album Native.

It celebrates the importance of pursuing dreams over money and has sold over 41 million copies worldwide.

Recorded in Santorini, Greece, and Denver, USA, it features a distinctive melody that blends folk-pop with disco beats.

It has surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube and has earned platinum certifications in many countries, receiving widespread acclaim.

It’s the perfect track when you want to push toward your goals or fire yourself up—a timeless anthem that really resonates with Gen Z.

Diet PepsiAddison Rae

Addison Rae – Diet Pepsi (Official Video)

Addison Rae, a female singer-songwriter who rose to global fame through TikTok.

She’s extremely popular overseas, so if you keep your ear to the ground, you’ve probably heard of her.

Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is a track from her 2025 album “Addison.” Released in August 2024, it became a hit, reaching No.

54 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The chorus is in falsetto, so it might seem challenging, but the melody itself is simple.

If you can use falsetto, anyone can sing it with plenty of vibe—so give it a try!

UnstoppableSia

Sia – Unstoppable (Official Video – Live from the Nostalgic For The Present Tour)

Sia, the Australian singer-songwriter who is active on the global stage.

Among her works, do you know the song that gained worldwide popularity thanks to short videos? Its grand, powerful chorus is truly unforgettable.

The track is an anthem of self-affirmation, boldly proclaiming inner confidence: I’m unstoppable.

Listening to it can fill you with the courage to face any challenge.

Originally released in January 2016 on the album This Is Acting, the song saw a resurgence in popularity after being featured in a Lancôme commercial starring Zendaya and in a Samsung ad.

The striking impact of the chorus made it a perfect match for short videos, capturing the hearts of many.

When you’re taking on something new or need a boost of confidence, this song is sure to give you a push.

Bad ReputationAvril Lavigne

Bad Reputation

Avril Lavigne, the Canadian singer-songwriter who reigns over the scene as the “Queen of Pop Punk.” This song debuted in December 2012 for promotional use and was selected as the theme for the animated film ONE PIECE FILM Z.

Its defiant spirit—belting out that she doesn’t care about bad press—perfectly syncs with the Straw Hat crew’s belief in pursuing freedom.

A cover of Joan Jett’s classic, the track is an undeniably cool punk rock number that fuses powerful guitar sounds with a driving, fast-paced beat.

It peaked at No.

8 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 and was later included on the album Goodbye Lullaby.

When you need the courage to face something head-on, this high-energy song is sure to give you a powerful push.

Try EverythingShakira

Shakira – Try Everything (Official Video)

This is a song that gives you a powerful push on the back, saying, “It’s okay to fail over and over—just try again!” Sung by the world-famous star from Colombia, Shakira, the track was written as the theme song for the Disney film Zootopia.

The protagonist’s strong will to keep taking on new challenges without giving up—even after falling down and getting hurt—is vividly portrayed over a bright, pop melody.

The song became a beloved classic worldwide, earning a nomination for Best Song Written for Visual Media at the 59th Grammy Awards.

It’s perfect for when you hit a wall in your studies or club activities, or when you want to fire yourself up to start something new.

It’s sure to fill you with positive courage and make you think, “I can do it!”

Break The RulesCharli XCX

Charli XCX – Break The Rules [Official Video]

A rebellious track by the UK-born Charli XCX.

Released in August 2014, this song is from the album “Sucker” and reached No.

4 on the German charts.

The lyrics are striking, as if speaking for that inner cry: “Let’s skip school and break all the rules!” It captures the pure impulse to break free from the stifling rules and expectations of society and just dance the night away.

Haven’t you ever felt that way, too? Its energetic sound is also appealing, blowing away everyday stress and frustration.

Put it on when you want to forget everything and let loose for the night, and you’re guaranteed to feel amazing!

All My Life ft. J. ColeLil Durk

Lil Durk – All My Life ft. J. Cole

Lil Durk, a leading figure in drill music born from the streets of Chicago, first rose to prominence with his 2012 mixtape “Life Ain’t No Joke,” and later signed with major label Def Jam Recordings.

His 2015 album “Remember My Name” reached No.

14 on the Billboard 200, propelling him into the spotlight.

He is known for his vocal ability to delicately capture emotional nuances and for lyrics that reflect Chicago’s street culture.

In 2020, his album “Just Cause Y’all Waited 2” peaked at No.

2 on the Billboard 200, cementing his status as a top artist.

He is also known as the founder of Only the Family (OTF) and is dedicated to fostering young talent.

Highly recommended for music fans who seek authentic depictions of real life and emotionally charged expression.