Recommended Western karaoke songs for middle school students

The OneBackstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys – The One (Official Video)

One of the signature songs by the popular idol group Backstreet Boys.

It’s cool even from an adult’s perspective, but its edgy, chuunibyo-tinged vibe especially appeals to middle schoolers of that generation.

Since most of the lyrics are clearly articulated, with some practice you can sing it stylishly and become a hit at karaoke.

We Are Young ft. Janelle MonáeFun

Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Fun’s hit song that sings of youth.

The chorus is striking, and once you get the rhythm down, it’s easy to sing along.

As the title suggests, the theme is youth, and for undefeated middle schoolers, it perfectly represents the present and is easy to relate to.

However, since there’s a phrase about drinking alcohol, it might reflect the youth of a slightly older generation.

Loser Like MeGlee Cast

GLEE 2×16 – Loser Like Me (inedito)

An original song from the popular musical drama Glee.

It’s an empowering anthem about strength that won’t be defeated by any words, and its upbeat, positive vibe makes it a great crowd-pleaser at karaoke.

Since it’s from an overseas school drama, it’s easy for middle schoolers—who are close in age to the characters—to relate to.

HelpThe Beatles

The Beatles • “Help” (Live) • 1965 (Reelin’ In The Years Archives)

One of The Beatles’ signature songs.

Although it’s over 50 years old, it still plays frequently on TV and radio.

Many Beatles songs are clearly enunciated, so there are plenty that are easy for junior high school students who are just beginning to learn English to sing.

Let It GoIdina Menzel

Idina Menzel – Let It Go (From Frozen/Sing-Along)

A famous song that sparked the Frozen craze at Disney.

Since Disney songs, including their international versions, are often played on TV and at various events, I think they’re familiar even to younger kids.

Even if the pronunciation isn’t perfect, the chorus—“Let it go, let it go”—is something anyone can belt out, so it’s a great song to get everyone excited.

All I Want For Christmas Is YouMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – All I Want For Christmas Is You (Official Video)

A Christmas song so classic that you’d almost suspect there’s no one who doesn’t listen to it in December.

The tempo is fast, but since almost everyone has heard it, anyone can hum along at karaoke as long as they know the lyrics.

One of its charms is that it can surprisingly get a crowd going regardless of the season.

Please Please PleaseSabrina Carpenter

Sabrina Carpenter – Please Please Please

This track from American singer-songwriter Sabrina Carpenter blends disco-pop with country elements.

It captures the turmoil between love and reason through narrative-driven lyrics that contrast with its light, breezy sound.

Released in June 2024, the song became a global hit and was nominated for Song of the Year at the 67th Grammy Awards.

Featured on the album Short n’ Sweet, it was co-produced by Jack Antonoff and Amy Allen.

The lyrics, rich with witty turns of phrase that convey heartfelt doubts about a romantic relationship, are perfect for creating an energetic vibe at school sports days and athletic events.