A wonderful classic

[2026] A roundup of dark Western songs I'd like middle schoolers to listen to

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

When we’re weighed down by melancholy, it’s the power of music that gently wraps around our hearts.

Sometimes we feel deep empathy by laying bare the darkness inside; other times we find encouragement amid despair—here are some classic Western songs that do just that.

Focused mainly on Gen Z artists, we’ve selected tracks that can stand beside the many kinds of emotional pain today’s middle schoolers (as of 2025) may face—heartbreak, friendship troubles, anxieties about the future, and more.

Listening while understanding the lyrics will make them resonate even more deeply.

Just be careful not to get swallowed by darkness that’s too deep—and by all means, try listening as you read the lyrics.

[2026] A Compilation of Depressing Western Songs for Junior High Students to Listen To (51–60)

ParadiseColdplay

Coldplay – Paradise (Official Video)

ParadiseColdplay

Among rock bands, Coldplay is popular with junior high school students.

They can relate to how this earnest and straightforward young man became a big star.

Above all, the melodies—convincing whether in Western music or to Japanese listeners—are unforgettable.

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Fake My Own DeathSUM41

Sum 41 – Fake My Own Death (Official Music Video)

Fake My Own DeathSUM41

Once you get into punk rock, you can’t help looking for similar bands.

If you like Green Day or the Pistols, the next one to check out is Sum 41.

Their sound is the kind of rock that even middle schoolers love, and I think it can be a real vitamin boost for boys bursting with energy!

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New RomanticsTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – New Romantics

New RomanticsTaylor Swift

You start getting into Western music around middle school, right? And you naturally look up to grown-ups like Taylor Swift.

This song was, of course, a huge hit, so I think everyone knows it by now, but if you don’t, you can get a feel for a new side of Taylor.

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ViennaBilly Joel

Vienna-Billy Joel (Lyrics in Description)

ViennaBilly Joel

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.

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1901Birdy

Birdy – 1901 (Official Music Video)

1901Birdy

In this song, with its poignant piano timbre, the lyrics depict the moment just before parting.

In the few remaining moments, they struggle to see if anything can be done.

In summer they slept together, but when autumn comes… Mm, it’s heartbreaking.

I truly hope junior high school students will savor this poetic imagery.

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