[Middle School Students] Karaoke Popularity Rankings by Generation [2026]

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys64rank/position

Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (Official HD Video)

Despite being an idol group, the Backstreet Boys earned praise from critics for their strong vocal performances.

While they may not be very familiar to many current middle schoolers, plenty of parents probably listen to them.

Among their songs, the one I especially recommend is I Want It That Way.

It has a fresh, ballad-like melody with relatively few high notes.

It’s an easy song to sing even for middle schoolers whose voices can be unstable, so definitely give it a try.

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Ryo

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What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction (Wan Dairekushon)65rank/position

One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful (Official Video)

A signature song from One Direction’s debut album “Up All Night” that propelled them to global stardom.

It’s also well known for winning the British Single of the Year at the 2012 BRIT Awards.

Born from the songwriter’s real-life experience, the heartwarming message—encouraging a loved one who feels “I’m not beautiful”—never fails to stir the emotions with every listen.

From the intro’s guitar riff it’s irresistibly catchy, and the unforgettable melody is guaranteed to light up any karaoke session.

The chorus is super simple, so even if you’re not confident in your English pronunciation, you can power through it—perfect for a big sing-along.

It’s the ultimate feel-good anthem.

Every Breath You TakeThe Police66rank/position

The Police – Every Breath You Take (Official Music Video)

The Police are a legendary British band that earned extremely high acclaim worldwide.

It’s the band of the genius artist Sting.

The Police explored a variety of genres, and of course they also created songs that are easy for listeners to sing.

Among them, the one I recommend is Every Breath You Take.

In Japan, it became well known thanks to a cover collaboration by Thelma Aoyama and Brian McKnight.

While the B section is a bit challenging, the A section doesn’t require belting, so I think it’s easy to sing even for junior high school students whose vocal cords can be sensitive due to changes during their growth period.

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Ryo

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It’s my lifeBon Jovi67rank/position

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

Opening with a powerful shout, this song is a masterpiece that heralded the dawn of Bon Jovi’s new golden era.

Released in May 2000 as the lead single from the album “Crush,” it dominated charts worldwide and signaled the band’s triumphant return.

Characterized by a simple riff and a driving, fast-paced rhythm, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at karaoke.

The lyrics, which celebrate the importance of living true to yourself, deliver a message that resonates across generations.

It’s a track that brilliantly fuses the vigor that speaks to younger listeners with the seasoned confidence of veterans.

When you sing it at karaoke, try belting it out and revel in the feeling of embracing your own life.

FireworkKaty Perry68rank/position

Katy Perry – Firework (Official Music Video)

One of Katy Perry’s signature songs.

Because the title means “fireworks,” it’s often heard in Japan during the summer.

Katy Perry has fans all over the world and is especially popular with younger generations, so many Japanese middle schoolers are fans as well.

It has a great sense of rhythm, and the chorus is easy to imitate after just one listen, making it easy to sing.

Livin’ On A PrayerBon Jovi69rank/position

Bon Jovi – Livin’ On A Prayer

Among younger generations, fewer people know Bon Jovi, but their songs are undeniably ones everyone has heard at least once.

The choruses are powerful—tracks that make you want to shout and sing along with everyone.

And despite that strength, the lyrics flow at a relaxed pace, making the songs easy to sing even for those not used to English.

bad guyBillie Eilish70rank/position

Billie Eilish – bad guy

Billie Eilish, an American singer-songwriter who is highly acclaimed around the world, is known for her dark and melancholic songs, and she has continued to thrive without fundamentally changing her musical style since her debut.

Her biggest hit is “bad guy.” It was a massive hit in 2019, so even junior high school students are probably familiar with it.

While the track showcases her dark aesthetic, it’s crafted with an overall groovy, catchy melody.

It’s rare to find a song this upbeat with such a softly sung vocal line, so be sure to try it at karaoke.

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Ryo

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