RAG MusicJunior
A wonderful classic

[2026] Classic Western Songs Recommended for Junior High Students [English Songs]

In the 2020s, with subscriptions in full swing, we live in an era where you can enjoy music from all over the world—from the latest hits to classics from decades ago—anytime, anywhere.

The barrier to listening to Western music has definitely gotten lower.

That said, with talk of younger people drifting away from Western music, this article picks out classic English-language songs recommended for middle schoolers, including tracks popular on TikTok and Spotify.

In the first half, we feature the latest buzzworthy and hit songs; in the second half, we include timeless classics.

From upbeat killer tunes to mellow numbers, we focus on tracks with melodies that feel familiar even if you don’t understand the lyrics.

We hope this becomes your gateway to getting into Western music!

[2026] Classic Western Songs Recommended for Junior High School Students [English Songs] (21–30)

Into the Unknown (From “Frozen 2”)Idina Menzel, AURORA

Idina Menzel, AURORA – Into the Unknown (From “Frozen 2″/Lyric Video)
Into the Unknown (From "Frozen 2")Idina Menzel, AURORA

Overseas, the Disney film Frozen 2—known in Japan as Anna and the Snow Queen 2—features the theme song “Into the Unknown.” Just like the previous installment, they placed a striking phrase right at the powerful part of the chorus.

“Unknown” is formed from the negative prefix “un” and the verb “know.” Then you go “into” it—an exciting title that fits the movie perfectly!

FadedAlan Walker

Alan Walker is a music producer who is active mainly in Norway.

He grew up familiar with programming and graphic design, and in 2012 he uploaded a self-composed track to YouTube through the UK record label NoCopyrightSounds, which brought him worldwide popularity.

The video has racked up a staggering 270 million views! What’s more, Alan Walker was only 16 at the time.

If you’re a junior high school student, you’re pretty much the same generation—so why not check him out?

[2026] Classic Western Songs Recommended for Junior High School Students [English Songs] (31–40)

Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande – Rain On Me (Official Music Video)
Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande

“Rain On Me,” a collaboration by Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga.

Released in 2020, this track gained worldwide popularity with its uptempo melody and visually engaging performance, and it won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.

While it’s a high-energy song, the tempo isn’t overly fast, making it a tune that anyone can get into and enjoy!

34+35Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande – 34+35 (official video)
34+35Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande is a singer who has gained worldwide popularity with her wide vocal range and adorable looks.

While she is often compared to Mariah Carey for her style, she has shifted toward a more stylish musical direction compared to her early days, making her recent work highly distinctive.

One of her stylish masterpieces is “34+35.” If you like cool, laid-back dance music, be sure to check it out.

We Are Never Ever Getting Back TogetherTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together
We Are Never Ever Getting Back TogetherTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s signature song “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” It’s a 2012 track, but it’s still a popular song you hear all the time.

For example, it would be incredibly cool to sing it as an acoustic guitar solo performance or at karaoke.

In fact, the guitar chords are beginner-friendly, making it a perfect first step into playing and singing Western pop songs.

What Am IWhy Don’t We

Why Don’t We “What Am I” (with Japanese subtitles)
What Am IWhy Don't We

The song “What Am I,” which Ed Sheeran wrote for the idol-type boy band Why Don’t We in Japan’s terms, features wonderfully romantic, dreamy lyrics.

The title itself also has a depth that makes you curious about its meaning at first glance.

Be sure to enjoy it while listening to the lyrics!

DaylightDavid Kushner

David Kushner – Daylight (Official Music Video)
DaylightDavid Kushner

David Kushner, a singer-songwriter from the United States who is currently attracting the most attention.

His song “Daylight” is the track that became the catalyst for his worldwide popularity, and it’s now being played widely across media, especially on TikTok.

The song contains religious themes, and its lyrics are abstract and philosophical.

It’s a thought-provoking piece for sensitive junior high school students as well, so be sure to check out the Japanese translation too.