Coming-of-age Western songs recommended for high school students: world classics and popular hits.

Shape of YouEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

Ed Sheeran’s 2017 classic, “Shape of You.” It’s likely that most high school students know this song, isn’t it? The track blends the then-trendy genre of tropical house into pop music, and that, among other reasons, helped it become a massive worldwide hit.

While the melody is a highlight, the truly fascinating part is the lyrics.

The depiction of a young man developing a sort of crush on an older woman is superb—so be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well.

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MemoriesMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Memories (Official Video)

Maroon 5 is an American band that has gained worldwide popularity with its wide-ranging musicality and catchy lyrics.

From upbeat tracks that get you moving to heart-wrenching ballads, they can do it all—but the song we’re introducing this time is so sad you’ll want to have a handkerchief ready.

“Memories” is a masterpiece created as a requiem when their longtime manager passed away.

While death may not feel very close to most high school students, parting ways with friends is inevitable for seniors preparing to graduate.

If you’re in your final year, be sure to give it a listen.

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New RulesDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – New Rules (Official Music Video)

Until about five to ten years ago, the so-called “trendy” songs were all high-energy, up-tempo tracks.

However, that value system started to fade in the 2020s, and now the mainstream is stylish yet groovy, downbeat melodies.

One song that captures this shift is “New Rules,” sung by Dua Lipa, the British artist admired by teenagers around the world.

The track is simple, but it’s a downbeat, high-sense tune that still gets you moving—why not let yourself get swept up in it?

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RoarKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Roar

It’s a single by American singer-songwriter Katy Perry.

In 2015, she impressively ranked first among the highest-earning musicians, which surely reflects her high level of worldwide recognition.

Watermelon SugarHarry Styles

Harry Styles – Watermelon Sugar (Official Video)

Harry Styles is a singer-songwriter who rose to fame as a member of One Direction and has continued to earn global acclaim as a solo artist.

Among the members, he’s the most successful as an artist, and his strong songwriting skills have been praised by many critics.

Watermelon Sugar is one of his signature songs, a work themed around heartbreak based on his own experiences.

You can get a candid look at his views on love, so if you’re a high school student in a relationship, be sure to check it out.

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DANCE MONKEYTones and I

TONES AND I – DANCE MONKEY (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Tones and I is an Australian female singer-songwriter who has gained popularity for her distinctive musical style.

She has a highly unique vocal quality, and many people find that once they hear her voice, it sticks in their heads.

The work that propelled her to global fame is “DANCE MONKEY.” It’s a surreal track wrapped in a distinctive atmosphere, yet it’s surprisingly easy to get into the groove as you listen.

Be sure to check it out.

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Blank SpaceTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Blank Space

It’s said that one out of every four or five people around the world has listened to this song.

Since it’s included on the album that was reportedly the best-selling from 2014 to 2015, many of you have probably heard it.

It’s a track you should definitely keep in mind when listening to Western music.

It would also be a great choice for the first song to get everyone hyped.