RAG MusicTeens
A wonderful classic

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)

Wake Me UpAvicii

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Lyric Video)
Wake Me UpAvicii

It’s a refreshing track with an invigorating rhythm and a soothing low male vocal.

The musical structure is simple and repetitive, yet many are captivated by the powerful vocals and lyrics.

Although he’s a singer from Sweden, it’s also noteworthy how impressively he handles English, which isn’t his native language.

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (Official HD Video)
I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys

Released in 1999, it became one of the Backstreet Boys’ signature songs of the ’90s.

It topped the Billboard charts for 14 consecutive weeks and garnered massive popularity, with radio stations flooded with requests.

While it has a refreshing rhythm, it’s a bittersweet song that captures the ache of unrequited love.

Bad DayDaniel Powter

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]
Bad DayDaniel Powter

Few listeners will fail to be surprised by the gap between the melody and the title.

Despite the title “The Worst Day,” which doesn’t seem to fit the bright melody, it’s actually crafted as a supportive song that lightly nudges you, saying, “Hey, days like that happen.”

Moving Western songs recommended for high school students: World classics and popular tracks (11–20)

SugarMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)
SugarMaroon 5

It’s a track included on Maroon 5’s album “V.” It’s a cheerful song, and the music video is built around a surprise where the members of Maroon 5 secretly appear at wedding receptions and start performing the song.

See You AgainWiz Khalifa

Wiz Khalifa – See You Again ft. Charlie Puth [Official Video] Furious 7 Soundtrack
See You AgainWiz Khalifa

It’s been two years since its release, yet this unstoppable track is still boosting its sales.

It was introduced to the world as the theme song for the movie Fast & Furious.

The harmony between the soaring high vocals and the deep, following rap makes for a pleasantly crafted piece.

ParadiseColdplay

Coldplay – Paradise (Official Video)
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.

APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars

ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – APT. (Official Music Video)
APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars

This track stands out with a pop-rock sound full of wave-riding rhythm and powerful energy.

It’s a collaboration between Rosé, the main vocalist of Korea’s BLACKPINK, and 15-time Grammy winner Bruno Mars.

Released in October 2024, it topped the charts in more than 25 countries worldwide.

Inspired by a drinking game popular among young people, it deftly weaves together the exhilaration of a party and the sweetness of romance.

The wistful vocals and edgy guitar work blend seamlessly, resulting in a polished, sophisticated song.

It’s perfect for boosting team motivation at school sports festivals or anytime you want to hype up the crowd with powerful chants.