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

It’s My LifeBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

It’s a rock band anthem, a single from Bon Jovi’s seventh album, released in 2000, and it became an explosive hit worldwide.

The powerful vocals urging us to live life to the fullest and the deep bass rhythm give you a push forward.

Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande – Rain On Me (Official Music Video)

The classic hit “Rain On Me,” which made a huge splash in 2020, is a collaboration between Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande.

As a team-up between a legendary star and a newer diva, it generated tremendous buzz.

Because the title mentions rain, you might expect a quiet song, but once you press play, you’ll find it’s a very uptempo, high-energy track.

It’s easy to dance to, so it would work well as background music when performing a dance at a school festival.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Blinding LightsThe Weeknd

The Weeknd – Blinding Lights (Official Video)

Although it hasn’t really taken hold in Japan, since the 2020s a genre centered on the 1980s sound known as synth-pop has been gaining popularity overseas as a trend.

The song that helped spark that trend is Blinding Lights.

It’s performed by the Canadian singer-songwriter The Weeknd.

His musical style is entirely synth-pop, featuring many nostalgic synthesizer sounds, yet with a contemporary groove.

As you listen, you’ll likely feel a curious blend of new and old all at once.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys

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

It became one of the Backstreet Boys’ signature songs of the ’90s, achieving immense popularity by topping the Billboard charts for 14 consecutive weeks and receiving a flood of requests at radio stations.

While it has a refreshing rhythm, it sings of a bittersweet love, and its melody is easy for women to sing—making it a great choice for karaoke.

Hey YouThe Belair Lip Bombs

The Belair Lip Bombs – Hey You (Official Video)

This track, with its striking sound of shimmering synth loops intertwined with fuzzy guitars, is a number by The Belair Lip Bombs, who emerged from Australia’s indie scene.

Their 2023 debut Lush Life earned high acclaim, and they also made waves as the first Australian act to sign with the label run by Jack White.

Vocalist and lyricist Maisie Everett describes their music as “unrequited love rock,” and true to that description, this song feels like it sings of the burning crushes of youth.

Her cathartic vocals vividly capture emotions that are both frustrating and radiant.

Released ahead of their second album Again, due out in October 2025, the song is a slice of youthful pop that brings back sweet-and-sour memories.

Bad RomanceLady Gaga

Lady Gaga – Bad Romance (Official Music Video)

It’s a track included on The Fame Monster by American musician Lady Gaga.

Used for the finale of Alexander McQueen’s 2011 fashion show, it may draw you into Gaga’s strange aura that has captured the spotlight of women around the world.

No OneAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – No One (Official Music Video)

Included on Alicia Keys’ third album, this song remains one of her signature tracks and the biggest hit she has produced.

As the title “No One” suggests, it conveys a strong determination that no one can suppress her feelings or stand in her way.