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

ParadiseColdplay

Coldplay – Paradise (Official Video)

Among rock bands, Coldplay is popular with junior high school students.

They can relate to how this earnest and straightforward young man became a big star.

Above all, the melodies—convincing whether in Western music or to Japanese listeners—are unforgettable.

New RomanticsTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – New Romantics

You start getting into Western music around middle school, right? And you naturally look up to grown-ups like Taylor Swift.

This song was, of course, a huge hit, so I think everyone knows it by now, but if you don’t, you can get a feel for a new side of Taylor.

ChandelierSia

Sia – Chandelier (Official Video)

With this striking music video, it quickly became popular among Japanese middle schoolers and other young people.

I think it’s rare to see a music video that incorporates dance scenes to this extent.

And we’re all drawn to those powerful, commanding vocals, aren’t we? I’ve heard it’s been popular at karaoke lately, too.

7 ringsAriana Grande

Ariana Grande – 7 rings (Official Video)

This is “7 rings,” the hit single released in 2019 by the hugely popular artist Ariana Grande.

The intro is a parody of “My Favorite Things” from the musical The Sound of Music.

Beyond the song’s catchy appeal, it also drew major attention when she—who openly expresses her fondness for Japan—got the kanji characters for “seven rings” tattooed on her palm, which, due to a mix-up, read as “shichirin” (a small charcoal grill).

Good LifeKehlani & G-Eazy

Kehlani & G-Eazy – Good Life (from The Fate of the Furious: The Album) [Official Music Video]

A song that was also featured in the Fast & Furious films.

G-Eazy drew attention in 2015 for sampling a track by Kyary Pamyu Pamyu.

Kehlani, covered in tattoos, is a singer who has had a major impact in the fashion world as well.

Their stylish collaboration results in a grand, powerful number whose soulful, message-driven lyrics deserve close attention.

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Murakami Shinpei

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ViennaBilly Joel

Vienna-Billy Joel (Lyrics in Description)

It’s a beautiful song featuring Billy Joel’s supple, far-reaching vocals and a wistful, emotional melody.

The accordion that comes in partway through is great, too! I’d also highly recommend the lyrics to middle school students—they’re the kind of words that can give you the courage to take on a challenge.

Party In The U.S.A.Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus – Party In The U.S.A. (Official Video)

A summer pop anthem track released in 2009 by American singer Miley Cyrus.

It became a hit around the world and was certified platinum in four countries.

It was sampled in Girl Talk’s 2010 track “That’s Right.”