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

Just The Way You AreBruno Mars22rank/position

Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are (Official Music Video)

Bruno Mars, a genius who effortlessly commands pop and R&B.

This is one of his signature songs and a hugely popular choice for wedding background music.

Its charm lies, above all, in the lyrics that unabashedly and straightforwardly lavish praise on the one you love.

Just listening to it makes you feel happy.

Released in July 2010 as his solo debut single and included on the album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, this track also won at the 53rd Grammy Awards.

With piano at its core and an easy-to-remember melody, it’s very approachable to try.

If you sing it when expressing your feelings to someone special, it’s sure to be a hit!

NumbLinkin Park23rank/position

Numb (Official Music Video) [4K UPGRADE] – Linkin Park

Formed in 1996, the American alternative rock band Linkin Park is a perfect choice for a Western rock band to start listening to from middle school.

Their songs feature choruses that genuinely soar, verses brimming with a sense that something’s about to happen, heavily distorted guitars, and emotional vocals—every element is just incredibly cool.

Their track “Numb” exemplifies this, and I believe it’s a song that can open a musical door you’ve never opened before.

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SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire24rank/position

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

It’s a bit from the older generation, but it’s still a dance number heard in many settings today.

The chorus features a phrase everyone has heard, making it familiar across generations.

Since most of the lyrics are simple words to pronounce, it’s easy to use as a learning material, and with a bit of practice, even junior high school students who have just started learning English can sing it right away.

Here With Me Feat. CHVRCHESMarshmello25rank/position

Marshmello – Here With Me Feat. CHVRCHES (Official Music Video)

Marshmello is an American DJ who has gained popularity with his unique marshmallow headgear.

“Here With Me” is a collaboration with the Scottish electropop band CHVRCHES.

Marshmello’s spacious, polished rhythm combined with vocalist Lauren Mayberry’s youthful yet steady and unwavering voice creates a sense of reassurance that isn’t overly casual, making the song very easy to listen to.

For a school sports day, I recommend using it not for intense events but for activities like beanbag tosses or dances.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis26rank/position

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger

When it comes to Oasis songs that make you cry, this is the one.

It’s the true classic.

A timeless masterpiece that can move listeners of any generation to tears.

It’s a song that will move you no matter how old you are, but there’s also something uniquely special about hearing it in your teens.

Not just the melody—the lyrics are wonderful, too.

Live While We’re YoungOne Direction27rank/position

One Direction – Live While We’re Young

Songs that celebrate youth’s adventurous spirit and freedom shine like summer memories.

In this work by One Direction, they sing about the importance of living in the moment without fearing risks—something that is sure to resonate with middle schoolers as well.

Released in September 2012, the song dominated the charts as the lead single from the album “Take Me Home.” If you’re singing it at karaoke, we recommend enjoying it with friends.

Ride the bright, upbeat rhythm and belt it out—you’re guaranteed to feel great.

It’s the perfect track for anyone who wants to savor their youth.

Wake Me UpAvicii28rank/position

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Video)

The music of Swedish artist Avicii, which shines like fireworks blooming in the summer night sky, captivated many with its innovative sound that fuses EDM and folk.

This work, themed around life’s journey and self-discovery, is marked by Aloe Blacc’s powerful vocals and the warm melodies woven by acoustic guitar.

Released in June 2013 and reaching number one on the charts in 22 countries, it asserted a presence like a grand firework launched into the music world.

It’s a song I highly recommend for your walk home from a summer festival or for those standing at a turning point in life.