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 Collection of Dark Western Songs for Middle Schoolers to Listen To (81–90)

All Summer LongKid Rock

Kid Rock – All Summer Long [Official Music Video]

All Summer LongKid Rock

Lyrics of a high school boy talking about all sorts of things around a campfire—summer memories, his girlfriend, the future.

It’s the kind of song that speaks on behalf of what a boy feels about women in particular.

Perfect for looking back on this summer as it comes to an end.

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Girls Like YouMaroon 5 ft. Cardi B

Maroon 5 – Girls Like You ft. Cardi B (Official Music Video)

Girls Like YouMaroon 5 ft. Cardi B

In the fall, when it’s easy to feel nostalgic, you tend to want to listen to songs that bring back memories.

This Maroon 5 track is a love song that tells a story while looking back on the past.

The lyrics portray a bittersweet heartbreak, so give it a listen when you’re in the mood for something wistful.

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WonderwallOasis

Oasis – Wonderwall (Official Video)

WonderwallOasis

When it comes to Oasis, this is the song! It’s an ultra-popular track loved by many.

The laid-back acoustic guitar in the intro is striking and really suits a scene of autumn leaves dancing along a promenade.

How about using it as background music for a walk while reflecting on the path you’ve taken?

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Don’t Let Me DownThe Chainsmokers ft. Daya

The Chainsmokers – Don’t Let Me Down (Official Video) ft. Daya

Don't Let Me DownThe Chainsmokers ft. Daya

Speaking of autumn, it’s a comfortable season, so many middle schoolers probably go out with friends.

This is the song I want you to listen to with your friends on those outings.

In the music video, the two members of The Chainsmokers are shown driving.

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Don’t Be So Hard On YourselfJess Glynne

Jess Glynne – Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself [Official Video]

Don't Be So Hard On YourselfJess Glynne

When it comes to Western songs that are perfect as cheer songs for summer high school baseball, how about this track by Jess Glynne? Its message of “Don’t be so hard on yourself!” is a perfect cheer for high school ballplayers who aren’t afraid of mistakes or defeat.

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