[2026] Recommended for junior high schoolers! A roundup of tearjerker Western songs

Tears In HeavenEric Clapton

Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven [Unplugged…Over 30 Years Later] (Official Live Video)

It’s a mellow, famously iconic song—so much so that you can’t talk about Eric Clapton without mentioning it.

Since it’s slow, it’s easy to sing and simple enough for middle schoolers to learn.

The song itself has somewhat bittersweet lyrics, and I really grew to love it.

Leave (Get Out)JoJo

JoJo – Leave (Get Out) (Original Video)

An emotional track that sings about the anguish of breaking up with a boyfriend.

It was released as a single in 2004, when the American singer JoJo was 13 years old.

It became a hit around the world, reaching No.

1 on the charts in the United States and Scotland.

Only HopeMandy Moore

Mandy Moore – Only Hope – A Walk To Remember

Originally a track by the American band Switchfoot, released in 1999.

This cover version by Mandy Moore was released in 2002 and was used in the romantic film A Walk to Remember, in which Mandy starred.

ViennaBilly Joel

Vienna-Billy Joel (Lyrics in Description)

It’s a beautiful song featuring Billy Joel’s supple, far-reaching vocals and a wistful, emotional melody.

The accordion that comes in partway through is great, too! I’d also highly recommend the lyrics to middle school students—they’re the kind of words that can give you the courage to take on a challenge.

Falling ShortLåpsley

Låpsley – Falling Short (Official Audio)

It’s a song that stands out for its minimal sounds and an irresistibly captivating voice you won’t forget after a single listen.

As you enter junior high and your circle of friends grows, you’ll likely encounter new music as well.

This song is exactly the kind of encounter that feels right for that moment.

Experiences like these can have a lasting impact afterward.

Young BloodNoah Kahan

Noah Kahan – Young Blood

It’s a song where the acoustic guitar fits perfectly with the transparent, airy world of the vocals.

As we become adults, seeing something through takes a lot of courage, and there’s a constant anxiety that what we do might end up hurting someone.

When you’re in middle school or otherwise young, maybe there’s an energy that surpasses that anxiety—enough to invent or achieve something!

Don’t Tell MeRuel

Ruel • Don’t Tell Me (Official Audio)

When this song by Ruel came out, he was just 14 years old, and even Elton John—after hearing it—said, “I’m blown away!” Indeed, the maturity and vocal prowess in his voice are remarkable.

In Japan, that’s around middle-school age, right? This track makes it clear that it’s never too early to start something.