Western music artists popular among university students: Ranking [2026]

STAYThe Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber92rank/position

The Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber – STAY (Official Video)

Released in 2021, “Stay” became a worldwide hit.

It’s a track by Australian rapper The Kid Laroi featuring Justin Bieber.

With its clear, airy sound and steady beat, the arrangement has a driving feel.

The call-and-response section that corresponds to the pre-chorus is a part that even those who can’t sing in English can join in on.

It’s perfect for sports days where people of all ages gather.

A video of Chocolate Planet’s Matsuo dancing to this song also went viral.

Because of that, even people who don’t usually listen to Western music have likely heard this song at least once.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Mr. BrightsideThe Killers93rank/position

The Killers – Mr. Brightside (Official Music Video)

A masterpiece by the American rock band The Killers that explodes with youthful energy.

Its striking guitar riffs and driving drum beats grab you from the start, and the propulsive rock sound makes it perfect for school sports festivals or dance performances.

The vocals deliver a bittersweet love story infused with universal emotions like jealousy and insecurity.

Released in September 2003, the track drew major attention as the lead single from the acclaimed album Hot Fuss and was even nominated for a Grammy.

The album sold over seven million copies worldwide, catapulting The Killers to stardom.

The soaring, crowd-pleasing chorus and emotional vocals offer wide-ranging possibilities for choreography.

It’s a great pick for students who want to fully express youthful energy.

I Feel It ComingThe Weeknd94rank/position

The Weeknd – I Feel It Coming ft. Daft Punk (Official Video)

This track blends a soul-stirring vocal performance with a comfortable, infectious rhythm.

Its arrangement feels like it unleashes the emotions buried deep within, gripping the listener’s heart.

The lyrics, which sing of the premonition of love and of hope, help heal past wounds and give you the courage to take a step toward a new relationship.

Featured on The Weeknd’s third album, Starboy, this song was created in collaboration with Daft Punk.

Since its release in November 2016, it has continued to captivate many listeners.

It’s a perfect choice for you if you’re looking forward to new encounters and experiences in college life—plus, it might be a great conversation starter with friends.

Die For You (Remix)The Weeknd & Ariana Grande95rank/position

The Weeknd, Ariana Grande – Die For You (Remix / Lyric Video)

Ariana Grande is a singer-songwriter from the United States whose albums My Everything and Dangerous Woman were massive hits.

Her remix of The Weeknd’s hit song Die For You, titled Die For You (Remix), is a sexy and mysterious take that seems perfect for a sweet, atmospheric dance.

With its slow tempo and ballad-like feel, it’s also ideal for dramatically changing the mood after an intense dance number.

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Yuuki

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Don’t Be ShyTiësto & Karol G96rank/position

Tiësto & Karol G – Don’t Be Shy (Official Music Video)

If you’re looking for upbeat Western music that works for dance competitions, give “Don’t Be Shy” a listen.

This electro-pop track, released in 2021 by Dutch EDM maestro Tiësto and Colombian singer-songwriter Karol G—known for blending reggaeton and Latin influences—exudes an exotic vibe.

Its rhythmic tempo is seriously addictive and will have your body moving before you know it.

Put this on for the whole class to dance to, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

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mutō

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WaterTyla97rank/position

Tyla – Water (Official Music Video)

The breakout work by South Africa’s rising star Tyla makes a striking impression with its dazzling sound that fuses pop, R&B, and Afrobeats.

Her passionate vocals blend with Amapiano rhythms, brilliantly showcasing refined musicality and youthful sensibility.

Released in July 2023 as the lead single from the album “Tyla,” it reached No.

15 on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100.

At the 2024 Grammy Awards, it won Best African Music Performance, opening up new possibilities for South African music.

The track has also earned fervent support from young people worldwide, with its dance challenge going viral on social media.

Perfect for school festivals and dance performances, its exhilarating beat and outstanding groove will instantly elevate the atmosphere of any venue.

With or Without YouU298rank/position

U2 – With Or Without You (U2 At The BBC)

This is U2, a band from Ireland.

They debuted in 1980 and are still actively performing today.

They never compromise on their musical style, and I think that’s exactly why fans are drawn to their unwavering sound.

I look forward to seeing even greater achievements from them in the future.