Western pop songs that junior high school students like. World-famous classics and popular songs.

What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction

One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful (Official Video)

One Direction is a handsome boy group that was born from a British audition show.

Their perfect looks, great singing, and overflowing individuality are the secret to their worldwide popularity! If such heartthrobs sang “I’m crazy about you” to you, your heart would definitely skip a beat.

Bad DayDaniel Powter

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]

Even on an unlucky day, this song’s memorable piano tone feels like a gentle companion.

It’s the classic that put Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Powter on the global map, included on his album “Daniel Powter.” Centered on the theme of having a “bad day,” it portrays the kind of slump everyone experiences, while offering a warm message that says, “Hey, it happens.” The track was used repeatedly on the popular American audition show “American Idol,” and became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive weeks.

When your studies or club activities aren’t going well and you’re feeling down, give it a listen—you’ll likely think, “Well, I guess days like this happen,” and feel a little lighter.

It’s a magical, encouraging song that makes you want to try again tomorrow.

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

It’s a bit from the older generation, but it’s still a dance number heard in many settings today.

The chorus features a phrase everyone has heard, making it familiar across generations.

Since most of the lyrics are simple words to pronounce, it’s easy to use as a learning material, and with a bit of practice, even junior high school students who have just started learning English can sing it right away.

We Will Rock YouQueen

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

Needless to say, it’s one of Queen’s signature songs.

There’s almost certainly no one who hasn’t heard it.

You hear it all the time at various events, especially sports, and it’s so famous that even middle schoolers have almost surely heard it at least once.

The chorus is simple, so it’s a perfect hype song to add to your karaoke list just for the chorus.

EspressoSabrina Carpenter

Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso

Its addictive sound, which skillfully blends pop and funk, is captivating.

This work by American artist Sabrina Carpenter, who likens her own charm to “espresso,” drew attention as the lead track from the album Short n’ Sweet, released in April 2024.

With energetic beats and playful lyrics, the song portrays women’s confidence and allure in a positive light.

Its lyrics, shining with self-assurance and a sense of humor, went viral on social media platforms like TikTok and became a major hit, reaching No.

3 on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100.

Used for entrance scenes at sports days or athletic festivals, it can be expected to boost participants’ motivation.

Its powerful beat and positive message make it a perfect track to elevate the event’s atmosphere.

Just The Way You AreBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are (Official Music Video)

This is an original song by Bruno Mars.

He elevated niche-oriented soul and funk into a higher level of pop music.

That’s what led to his overwhelming sales and popularity.

Of course, he’s popular among middle schoolers too, so if you don’t know him, you should check him out.

GirlFriendAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Girlfriend (Official Video)

I really like this song.

It was used in a TV drama, so maybe I heard it often.

My middle school kids love it too—they even bought the CD and listened to it.

Maybe that’s because they heard it a lot on TV.

It’s a song that gives you energy and strength.