[2026] A roundup of dark Western songs I'd like middle schoolers to listen to
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.
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[2026] A Compilation of Dark Western Songs for Junior High Students to Listen To (21–30)
Stay ft. Mikky EkkoRihanna
It’s a love song, but since it seems to be from around the time Rihanna herself experienced domestic violence, I can’t help feeling a dangerous sense of codependency in it.
If you listen to it in middle school and then revisit it in high school or college, comparing it with your own relationships and those of your friends, I think you can understand the song better.
B.Y.O.B.System Of A Down
I think if you can sublimate your darkness to this extent, it would feel really refreshing.
The repeated, breathless screams and the brisk tempo make this song addictive.
The lyrics, which sharply satirize the politics of the time, also left a strong impression on me, but personally I like the cool tempo in the chorus.
[2026] A Compilation of Dark Western Songs That Middle Schoolers Should Listen To (31–40)
The A TeamEd Sheeran
I remember it being used in commercials and such, but I think the lyrics depict shocking themes like drugs.
It’s not an overtly “depressing song,” but the more you learn about it, the more the intensity and sadness of the lyrics come through, so I think it can be classified as a depressing song.
PILLOWTALKZAYN
This is ZAYN’s first single after leaving One Direction.
As the title suggests, it has a sensual finish, and the lyrics and arrangement, which pull you deep into its world, are addictive.
Since then, Zayn seems to have been busy, even collaborating with his former bandmate Harry’s ex-girlfriend, but imagining that relationship dynamic is enough to make you feel depressed.
PassiveA Perfect Circle
It’s a song featured in the movie “Constantine.” The contrast between the passive doctor and the aggressive self is striking.
While the composition clearly delineates stillness and movement, it also conveys a sense of narrative.
After listening, you’re left with a kind of exhaustion, as if you’ve just finished watching a full-length film.
Some one like youAdele
Adele, currently the top CD seller, is still in her twenties despite that commanding presence.
Her success story is so large in scale that it can be a bit hard for Japanese people to fully grasp.
Her songs are by no means bright; many are in minor keys.
This song, which showcases her signature traits to the fullest, is also in a minor key, yet it’s filled with a powerful message and feels refreshing.
I’m AliveDisturbed
It begins with a heavy, brooding riff, but the lyrics are powerful, conveying a strong will to live firmly on one’s own two feet.
The style might not resonate with today’s younger listeners, yet while the tone is calmly melancholic, the performance and vocals are forceful.
It might be worth a listen when you’re feeling worn out by life.