Moving Western songs recommended for junior high school students: world classics and popular hits

Wake me up when September endsGreen Day

Green Day – Wake Me Up When September Ends [Official Music Video] [4K Upgrade]

The band Green Day, who sing this song, are from the United States, and the lyrics include the word “September.” In America, September marks the start of a new school year, and the music video for this song somehow evokes memories of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

There are various ways to interpret it, but the song’s content is about a boy’s feelings for his deceased father.

Falling ShortLåpsley

Låpsley – Falling Short (Official Audio)

It’s a song that stands out for its minimal sounds and an irresistibly captivating voice you won’t forget after a single listen.

As you enter junior high and your circle of friends grows, you’ll likely encounter new music as well.

This song is exactly the kind of encounter that feels right for that moment.

Experiences like these can have a lasting impact afterward.

Young BloodNoah Kahan

Noah Kahan – Young Blood

It’s a song where the acoustic guitar fits perfectly with the transparent, airy world of the vocals.

As we become adults, seeing something through takes a lot of courage, and there’s a constant anxiety that what we do might end up hurting someone.

When you’re in middle school or otherwise young, maybe there’s an energy that surpasses that anxiety—enough to invent or achieve something!

Gotta Be YouOne Direction

One Direction – Gotta Be You

It’s a One Direction number released in 2011.

In the music video, you can see the members looking fresh and still a bit innocent at the time.

It has a slow tempo and simple lyrics, making it easy enough to understand and likely helpful for junior high school English listening practice.

FirefliesOwl City

Owl City – Fireflies (Official Music Video)

If you’re a middle schooler who likes the Poppo Song, you know Owl City too, right? This track is becoming a new benchmark for pop songs, so it’s definitely not one to miss.

In those sensitive middle school years, you need pop with this level of sparkle.

Don’t Let Me DownThe Chainsmokers ft. Daya

The Chainsmokers – Don’t Let Me Down (Official Video) 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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BraveSara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles – Brave (Official Video)

Speaking of Western songs that give you courage, how about this track by Sara Bareilles? Its powerful drumbeat and uplifting chorus will put you in a bright, refreshing mood.

I think it’s perfect as a cheer song for summer high school baseball.