A wonderful classic

Dance music in Western pop recommended for junior high school students

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

When you think of dance music, many people probably imagine upbeat, high-energy tracks.

While that kind of dance music is certainly mainstream, since the 2020s, songs with a stylish tone have also been gaining popularity.

This time, we’ve selected dance tracks that we can recommend especially to lively middle school students.

In addition to up-tempo songs, we’ll also feature downbeat, stylish pieces—so please sit back, relax, and enjoy to the end!

Dance music in Western languages recommended for junior high school students (11–20)

Don’t Be ShyTiësto & Karol G

Tiësto & Karol G – Don’t Be Shy (Official Music Video)

Don't Be ShyTiësto & Karol G

Tiesto, a music producer who has been churning out hit songs since 2022, scored an especially big success with “Don’t Be Shy,” his collaboration with Colombia’s Karol G.

The charm of this track lies above all in its distinctive sound and stylish structure.

It’s not the kind of dance music that sends you into a frenzy, but it has a quirky, catchy groove, making it a great recommendation even for middle schoolers!

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CradlesSub Urban

Sub Urban – Cradles [Official Music Video]

CradlesSub Urban

Sub Urban is known as a prime example of an artist who gained worldwide popularity through TikTok.

In Japan, many people might not recognize his name, but the moment you hear his songs, you’ll go, “Oh, that one!” His track Cradles is one of his signature works.

It has a very dark vibe and helped spark the current dark-pop boom.

Although it was released in 2019, it’s still widely used on TikTok, so it’s recommended even for middle school students.

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UpINNA

INNA – Up

UpINNA

INNA is an artist who represents Romania.

She has gained worldwide popularity in deep house and EDM, consistently releasing hit songs thanks to her catchy style.

Among her works, the one I especially recommend is “Up.” This track is packed with elements of Romanian music.

Its Arabian-tinged musicality—shaped by Romania’s position between the Middle East and Europe—is particularly striking.

If you’re a middle school student who likes Latin music, Arabian flavors, and dance music, definitely give it a listen.

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PARANOIADARIA

DARIA MARX – PARANOIA (Official Music Video)

PARANOIADARIA

Many middle schoolers probably prefer catchy, poppy songs.

But there are surely some who like tracks with a more stylish vibe, right? For those people, I recommend PARANOIA.

It’s incredibly upbeat, yet the overall sound is kept cool, so it never feels overbearing—that’s the charm! The tempo is fast, too, so why not use it as BGM on your way to school?

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Made You LookMeghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor – Made You Look (Official Music Video)

Made You LookMeghan Trainor

It’s a song packed with positive messages.

Taken from Meghan Trainor’s fifth album, “Takin’ It Back,” it centers on confidence and self-love.

Set to a lively doo-wop rhythm, it declares that you can be attractive even without wearing expensive brands.

Released in October 2022, it climbed high on the charts in many countries.

The music video, made in collaboration with the popular game Candy Crush Saga, also generated buzz.

With its pop sensibilities and cute vibe, it’s a tune that makes you want to dance.

It’s a perfect song for junior high school students who want to value their individuality.

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