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[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] (41–50)

One TimeJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber – One Time (Official Music Video)
One TimeJustin Bieber

Even if you don’t listen to Western pop music, many people have at least heard the name Justin Bieber, right? He’s even appeared in Japanese TV commercials, so he’s widely known among the general public.

This song, One Time, was released in 2009.

Justin was 15 at the time—about the same age as junior high schoolers—and his voice hadn’t changed yet, giving it a fresh feel.

It’s a song where he confesses his feelings to a girl, and while he says, “I’ll say it one time: I love you,” he actually says it over and over (lol).

[2026] Classic Western songs recommended for junior high school students [English songs] (51–60)

StargazingMyles Smith

Myles Smith – Stargazing (Lyric Video)
StargazingMyles Smith

Introducing an inspiring single released in 2024 by Miles Smith, a singer-songwriter from the United States.

Drawing on the vocal prowess shaped by his church upbringing and a rich musical palette that traverses folk, Americana, and pop, this work is a love song that conveys a profound devotion to a cherished partner.

It vividly portrays the feeling of eternity in every moment spent together, and the sense of wandering like a lost soul in their absence.

Selected as one of Apple’s “Up Next Artists” and having achieved great success with his first headlining tour, Miles is one of today’s most talked-about artists.

It’s a song for two hearts in sync—perfect for a romantic moment under a starry night sky.

Good As Hell (feat. Ariana Grande)Lizzo

Lizzo “Good as Hell (feat. Ariana Grande) [Remix]” [Video with Japanese Subtitles]
Good As Hell (feat. Ariana Grande)Lizzo

Lizzo’s soulful anthem “Good as Hell” feels amazing to the core.

It’s a message song for women, where the groove and lyrical rhythm match perfectly.

The title literally means “so good it’s hell,” but here’s a romantic take: “Good as Heaven.”

South of the Border (feat. Camila Cabello & Cardi B)Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – South of the Border (feat. Camila Cabello & Cardi B) [Official Lyric Video]
South of the Border (feat. Camila Cabello & Cardi B)Ed Sheeran

A lavish track by singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, who has achieved explosive worldwide popularity, featuring guest vocals from Camila Cabello and Cardi B.

While the lyrics tell a mature love story, as you can see in this lyric video, understanding the lyrical content helps you grasp the literary expressions more deeply and enhances your appreciation of the song.

Left And Right (feat. Jung Kook of BTS)Charlie Puth

Charlie Puth – Left And Right (feat. Jung Kook of BTS) [Official Video]
Left And Right (feat. Jung Kook of BTS)Charlie Puth

“Left And Right (feat.

Jung Kook of BTS)” is a stylish, pop track by American singer-songwriter Charlie Puth in collaboration with Jung Kook, a popular member of BTS.

It leaves a very polished impression when you listen to it, so casually playing this song in front of your friends might make them think, “This person has good taste in music.” That’s another reason I recommend it to middle school students!

On My WayAlan Walker, Sabrina Carpenter & Farruko

Alan Walker, Sabrina Carpenter & Farruko – On My Way
On My WayAlan Walker, Sabrina Carpenter & Farruko

Alan Walker, the ever-rising Norway-based artist.

This track, featuring Sabrina Carpenter on vocals, was released in March 2019.

It portrays a strong-willed woman who resolves to leave her current circumstances and set out on a journey, while Alan’s gentle, Nordic-tinged melodies also capture a palpable sense of wistfulness.

Don’t Wake Me UpJonas Blue, Why Don’t We

Jonas Blue, Why Don’t We – Don’t Wake Me Up (Official Video)
Don’t Wake Me UpJonas Blue, Why Don't We

There’s a song that’s perfect for nights when you want to take a breather.

It’s Don’t Wake Me Up, a collaboration between British DJ Jonas Blue and American boy band Why Don’t We.

Released in 2022, the track captures the bittersweet feeling of longing for someone you can only meet in your dreams.

With its soothing beat and melody, it draws you into a dreamy world.

The music video, full of dance and romance, also made waves.

It’s the kind of captivating number that makes you want to stay up past midnight—why not give it a listen?