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

As It WasHarry Styles15rank/position

Harry Styles – As It Was (Official Video)

Harry Styles, who rose to fame as a member of One Direction, has achieved worldwide success as a solo artist since the group went on hiatus.

A quintessential example of his work is this track from the album Harry’s House.

Released in April 2022, it topped the charts in more than 45 countries and set a record by holding the No.

1 spot on the Billboard chart for 15 weeks.

Blending synth-pop and new wave, its sound combines the nostalgia and sleekness of a classic from the 1980s, making it a perfect morning song.

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson16rank/position

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Characterized by energetic, danceable beats, this work captivated audiences around the world with its confident lyrics and catchy melody.

The track’s urban funk sound, influenced by 1980s Minneapolis funk, is the result of a brilliant collaboration between Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars.

Released in November 2014, it spent 14 consecutive weeks at number one on the U.S.

charts, and later won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.

It’s a song I highly recommend to anyone starting a new chapter in life, as it instills confidence and courage.

We Will Rock YouQueen17rank/position

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

With its powerful handclaps and stomping rhythm, this staple track energizes sports festivals and dance events.

Released in October 1977 by the British rock band Queen from the album “News of the World,” the song celebrates the determination to overcome setbacks and hardships in pursuit of victory.

As a rousing anthem symbolizing unity and fighting spirit, it continues to be embraced across sports scenes worldwide.

The foot stomps and handclaps recorded by the band members themselves create a sense of togetherness that draws in the audience, and in 2002 it was also adopted as the title song for the musical “We Will Rock You.” It’s the perfect choice for those who want to bring an entire venue together during school sports days or dance performances.

Dirty WorkAustin Mahone18rank/position

Austin Mahone – Dirty Work (Official)

This song is famous in Japan for being used in comedian Chiemi Blouson’s routine.

With Austin Mahone’s high-tone vocals and its catchy, pop vibe, it’s a great track—perfect for middle schoolers who want an American-style, poppy wake-up in the morning.

ButterBTS19rank/position

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘Butter’ Official MV

An upbeat track that blends edgier pop with dance sounds—perfect for summertime hype.

Delivered entirely in English by the global Korean group BTS in May 2021, it features a lively beat inspired by 1980s and 1990s disco music.

With its dynamic melody and the sharp dance performance of the seven members, it topped the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100 chart for eight consecutive weeks.

It’s a great choice for opening ceremonies at school sports festivals, athletic events, or dance performances, and it also creates a strong sense of unity as background music.

An undeniable crowd-pleaser for sports settings and any scene where you want to get a big group pumped up.

I Will Always Love YouWhitney Houston20rank/position

Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You (Official 4K Video)

Depicting the tumultuous scenes of love, “I Will Always Love You” was released by diva Whitney Houston in 1992 and is loved around the world.

Originally written by country singer Dolly Parton, the song was covered by Whitney as part of the soundtrack for the film The Bodyguard.

Her powerful vocals and the dramatic arrangement continue to captivate countless listeners.

Although the theme is the painful decision to part ways, it’s a ballad that conveys profound love.

It’s a timeless classic that brings courage and inspiration to middle schoolers pursuing their hopes and dreams for the future.

Beautiful ThingsBenson Boone21rank/position

Benson Boone – Beautiful Things (Official Music Video)

Released in January 2024, this signature song by Benson Boone swept charts around the world.

It’s an emotionally rich ballad that expresses gratitude for happy days while also portraying the fear of losing them.

The lyrics use simple, easy-to-understand English, making it accessible even for junior high school students.

Its universal themes of gratitude toward loved ones and family, and the anxiety of loss, resonate deeply alongside soulful vocals.

Produced as the lead single for his debut album, “Fireworks & Rollerblades,” the song won Best Alternative Video at the MTV Video Music Awards.

With its moving melody and relatable lyrics, it’s sure to naturally boost motivation for learning English.