Touching Western songs recommended for high school students: world classics and popular hits
Have you ever experienced a moment when music moved you to your core?
It’s said that music can have many effects that stir our emotions—giving a push when we’re trying our best, or easing a heavy heart just a little.
This time, we’re introducing inspiring English-language songs that are perfect for sensitive and empathetic high school students!
Moving Western songs recommended for high school students. World classics and popular tracks (1–10)
This SongConan Gray
Conan Gray, a Japanese American singer-songwriter whose talent is recognized by Taylor Swift.
Having risen to stardom from his beginnings on YouTube, he released this track in May 2025.
Created as the lead track from the album “Wishbone,” the song lays bare his inner thoughts so candidly that he originally had no intention of letting anyone hear it.
Its lyrics, which depict loneliness and a journey of self-reflection, are likely to resonate deeply with sensitive high school students.
In the music video, he co-stars with actor Corey Fogelmanis, portraying delicate human relationships.
It’s recommended for those in the midst of finding themselves or for a quiet night of immersing yourself in music alone.
Beautiful ThingsBenson Boone
Singer-songwriter Benson Boone, who showcased his overwhelming vocal talent on TikTok and other social media platforms and quickly drew global attention.
Released in January 2024, this single is a powerful ballad that expresses heartfelt anxiety that the happiness shared with a loved one might someday fall apart, even as he feels gratitude for those joyful days.
The dramatic shift from a quiet verse to an explosive, emotional chorus deeply moves listeners.
As a lead single from his debut album, “Fireworks & Rollerblades,” it became a massive hit, and as of November 2024, the music video has surpassed 400 million views.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to savor your current happiness—or belt it out at karaoke.
Try EverythingShakira
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!”
Thinking Out LoudEd Sheeran
A gem of a song by Ed Sheeran, famous for writing beautiful, heartfelt lyrics.
It’s wonderfully romantic.
This track, brimming with teenage thrills, visions of the future, and hopes for what’s to come, is sure to set your heart racing.
ParadiseColdplay
This is a song by a rock band formed in the UK in 1996.
Comprising four members, this track has been crafted into a grand piece that embodies the world of Coldplay.
If you listen to Western music, this is a band you simply can’t overlook.