Ranking of Western Music Artists Popular Among Junior High School Students [2026]

Shout Out to My ExLittle Mix64rank/position

Little Mix – Shout Out to My Ex (Official Video)

I chose it because it’s a song that blows away depression.

Watching them sing with all their might and perform with raw emotion makes me feel ashamed of my gloomy self, and I naturally start to feel energized.

Or, it’s so dazzling that it makes me even more depressed—one or the other.

HeroMariah Carey65rank/position

Mariah Carey – Hero (From Mariah Carey (Live))

It’s a classic song, but a nostalgic youth anthem that gives you confidence.

The message is that anyone can be a hero and that there’s a hero in your heart.

When you’re going through something tough or painful, try calling on the hero in your heart—you might find strength.

SugarMaroon 566rank/position

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)

This one is cool too, and after hearing it once I was hooked.

The lyrics are easy to understand and the chorus is great, so it’s easy to sing with a nice vibe.

It feels good to listen to and has a refreshing sound.

The clear, catchy chorus also makes it perfect for practicing vocabulary.

ApologizeOneRepublic67rank/position

OneRepublic – Apologize

OneRepublic is an American rock band formed in 2002.

Their debut single, “Apologize,” was released in 2007 and reached number one on the charts in Canada and Australia.

It was also nominated for a Grammy Award in 2009.

HappyPharrell Williams68rank/position

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Video)

This song by American artist Pharrell Williams features a refreshing rhythm that blends elements of neo-soul and funk, expressing the joy of life and a positive outlook.

Its lyrics convey the importance of staying happy even in the most challenging situations, empowering every listener.

Released in November 2013, it was created for the soundtrack of the animated film Despicable Me 2 and was later included on the album G I R L.

Its appeal is evident from its achievement of holding the No.

1 spot on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100 for 10 consecutive weeks.

It’s perfect as background music for event entries or dance performances at school sports days, with the power to unite all participants.

A COLD PLAYThe Kid LAROI69rank/position

The Kid LAROI – A COLD PLAY (Official Video)

This track by Australian rapper The Kid Laroi, released in September 2025, is only about two minutes long yet packed with raw feelings of sadness and regret.

Over a cold, minimal beat, he lays bare the reality that you can’t change someone, while conveying the lingering emotions he can’t let go of—a direct transmission of the pain right after a breakup.

Since it came out shortly after his split with ex-girlfriend Tate McRae, it can be seen as a work that strongly reflects his true feelings.

Recommended for middle schoolers who are struggling because they can’t forget someone.

The MottoTiësto & Ava Max70rank/position

Tiësto & Ava Max – The Motto (Official Music Video)

Ava Max is one of the most prominent female singers in the electro-pop scene.

If you’re a middle schooler who listens to dance music, you probably know her.

This track, The Motto, is a collaboration with world-renowned music producer Tiësto.

While many of her songs are high-energy and upbeat dance tunes, this one has a darker, more cynical vibe.

Highly recommended if you like cool, catchy melodies.

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