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

One Sweet DayMariah Carey

Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men – One Sweet Day (Official Video)

This is a gem born from the exquisite collaboration between Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men.

Released in 1995 as part of her sixth album, it debuted straight at No.

1 on the Billboard singles chart.

It’s a track where you can relish her youthful, soaring, crystal-clear vocals and her seven-octave range.

The Sweet Escape ft. AkonGwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani – The Sweet Escape ft. Akon

Released in 2004 as a single by American singer Gwen Stefani.

It also reached No.

10 on Japan’s Oricon chart.

She is known to be a Japanophile, saying she incorporates Harajuku fashion and has even created songs based on it.

CupsAnna Kendrick

Anna Kendrick – Cups (Pitch Perfect’s “When I’m Gone”) (Director’s Cut)

It’s a song with a clear, refreshing singing voice and a light rhythm.

The title is literally “Cup,” and the table performance using cups that appears in the music video makes it an interesting track.

It might be fun for everyone to practice and dance together.

Here Comes the SunThe Beatles

The Beatles – The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun (Official Music Video) [2019 Mix]

This is a song whose fresh melody heralds the arrival of spring and whose hope-filled lyrics resonate in the heart.

It celebrates the joy of sunlight breaking through after a long, cold winter, encouraging new beginnings and a positive outlook.

Included on the September 1969 album Abbey Road, this track remains one of The Beatles’ signature works, still beloved by many.

It’s perfect for those starting school or a new chapter in life, and it can lighten your heart when you’re troubled or anxious.

Wrapped in The Beatles’ warm vocals, why not take a hopeful new step forward?

See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa

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

This warm and heartfelt track weaves together an emotional, melodious piano line with powerful rap.

A collaboration between American artists Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth, it’s a touching message song that reflects on friendship, farewell, and the hope of reunion.

Released in March 2015 as part of the soundtrack for the film Furious 7, it became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 consecutive weeks.

Its positive lyrics about the importance of bonds with friends and family, paired with a melody that resonates deeply, are sure to soothe many hearts.

It’s a recommended song for school festivals or cultural festivals—perfect for strengthening class unity or reminiscing about shared memories.

ForeverChris Brown

Chris Brown – Forever (Official HD Video)

A single released by Chris Brown in 2008.

He has said that he was greatly influenced by Michael Jackson, and he has been highly regarded, earning platinum certifications as an R&B singer.

He is also known as a star who loves Japanese anime.

Let It GoDemi Lovato

Demi Lovato – Let It Go (from “Frozen”) (Official Video)

It’s the theme song from Disney’s Frozen, which became a hot topic in Japan when covered by May J.

After pausing her music career in 2011 and opening up about struggles with an eating disorder and mental health, she returned in 2015.

You could say this song guided her comeback and helped propel her success.