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

riverBruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen – The River (The River Tour, Tempe 1980)

A ballad from the double album “The River,” which could be called the peak of Bruce’s career.

From then to now, Bruce has consistently sung about America’s pride and failure, and the sorrows of the working class.

The harmonica at the beginning of “The River” eloquently evokes America’s tragedy.

This is also a song for which I strongly encourage you to look up the lyrics.

Love me like you doEllie Goulding

Ellie Goulding – Love Me Like You Do (Official Video)

This song is a quintessential example of the classical electropop that’s a current trend among female singers.

And it’s very British.

Its music video has been viewed 1.4 billion times.

It’s fun to compare British pop with American pop.

Let this song’s sense of scale set you thinking about the character and history of its homeland.

Stairway to HeavenLed Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin Stairway to Heaven English and Japanese lyrics

When it comes to the greatest guitar solos in rock, this song is bound to come up.

Led Zeppelin was the ultimate band—one that couldn’t exist if even a single member were missing.

This track is like an impossible prayer the legendary band left behind in the history of music.

Stick with youThe Pussycat Dolls

The Pussycat Dolls – Stickwitu (Official Music Video) ft. Avant

A song that holds the record for consecutive weeks on the Billboard Hot 100.

Acoustic-leaning singers have been increasingly incorporating rap and creating great tracks, with Ed Sheeran and Jason Mraz being prime examples.

A breezy, lovely love song that suits the sea.

HomePhillip Phillips

Phillip Phillips – Home

It’s the perfect song for when you want to feel warm and cozy, the kind that reminds you of your gentle lover and makes you want to hurry back to them.

Even on busy days, it’s great to listen to when you want to relax or stir your emotions.

It will help you regain the gentle, warm feelings that lie dormant in your heart.

Gimme LoveSia

Sia – Gimme Love (Official Music Video)

A heartfelt semi-ballad that expresses a strong desire for emotional connection and affirmation.

Sia’s distinctive, operatic vocals blend exquisitely with a trap-leaning beat.

Released in September 2023, it arrived as the lead single from Sia’s first solo pop album in eight years, Reasonable Woman.

The lyrics, which stress the importance of being loved and appreciated, are striking, making it a song that resonates with those struggling in their relationships and with high school students looking to boost their self-esteem.

Precisely because it’s such a sensitive time, why not listen to this track and take a moment to face your feelings?

A Million DreamsThe Greatest Showman Cast

The Greatest Showman Cast – A Million Dreams (Official Audio)

Here is a moving song that sings of dreams and hope.

With its grand orchestration and deeply resonant melody, it captivates listeners and doesn’t let go.

Included on the soundtrack for the film The Greatest Showman, released in December 2017, it portrays the protagonist’s inner passion and hope for the future.

This piece teaches us the beauty of pursuing our dreams.

It’s a song I especially recommend to those starting a new chapter in life or striving toward a big goal.