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

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys29rank/position

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

This song captivates with its soulful, beautiful melody and lyrics that sing of bittersweet love.

The protagonist’s conflicted feelings about their relationship are conveyed through the Backstreet Boys’ gorgeous harmonies.

Released in April 1999, it became a massive hit, topping the charts in over 25 countries worldwide.

Featured on the album Millennium, it achieved the remarkable feat of earning three Grammy nominations.

In 2021, it was also used in a Samsung commercial, and even more than 20 years later, it retains its timeless appeal.

It’s a perfect track for healing the pain of heartbreak or reaffirming your feelings for someone special.

Yesterday Once MoreCarpenters30rank/position

Yesterday Once More

The Carpenters were a duo that enjoyed tremendous popularity in Japan.

Known for their laid-back pop tunes, they released hit songs one after another until vocalist Karen Carpenter passed away.

Although they’re artists from the past, many people—even junior high school students—are familiar with them today because their songs are still used widely in the media.

Among their repertoire, Yesterday Once More is especially easy to sing.

There are relatively few vowels compared to the number of notes, making the lyrics easy to memorize and the pronunciation fairly simple.

While it may lack punch compared to more modern tracks, it’s one of the easiest songs featured in this article, so be sure to check it out.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

abcdefuGAYLE31rank/position

[Japanese Translation] GAYLE “abcdefu” [Official]

Singer-songwriter GAYLE has gained immense popularity among listeners worldwide through TikTok.

For many junior high school students, TikTok is now an essential social media platform, and plenty of people have probably heard her songs.

The track that propelled her to fame is “abcdefu.” This song, an alternative rock piece with strong power-pop elements, packs a serious punch.

Because of that, many might assume it demands a high level of vocal ability.

Despite its punchy melody, the chorus stays in the mid-range, so the vocal difficulty is actually quite low.

For middle schoolers going through voice changes, a slightly husky tone can make the performance even more compelling.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)Shakira32rank/position

Shakira – Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Song)

Unfolding with dynamic energy, this pop number overflows with African spirit atop a powerful, groovy rhythm.

The celebratory sound woven by Colombia’s Shakira and South African band Freshlyground is sure to be the ultimate BGM to fire up any sports day.

Released in May 2010, the track gained worldwide popularity as the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, selling over 15 million copies globally.

It topped the charts in 15 countries and has amassed over 4 billion views on YouTube.

Blending a feverish, danceable beat with the spirit of football, this song is a perfect match for sporting events—powerfully propelling athletes toward victory and uniting the entire venue in a shared sense of excitement.

She Looks So Perfect5 Seconds of Summer33rank/position

5 Seconds of Summer – She Looks So Perfect

A song by a rising pop-rock star that shines with simple yet memorable phrases.

Set to rhythmic guitar sounds, the lyrics express the feelings of love in a straightforward way that resonates with middle schoolers.

The catchy chorus has a melody you won’t forget after just one listen, and it’s fun to sing your own way—even in katakana English.

Released as a debut single in 2014, it became a worldwide hit, selling over 925,000 copies in the U.S.

alone.

Capturing the sweet-and-sour essence of youth that everyone knows, this track is sure to be a perfect pick for a fun karaoke time with friends.

Bad DayDaniel Powter34rank/position

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]

Even on an unlucky day, this song’s memorable piano tone feels like a gentle companion.

It’s the classic that put Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Powter on the global map, included on his album “Daniel Powter.” Centered on the theme of having a “bad day,” it portrays the kind of slump everyone experiences, while offering a warm message that says, “Hey, it happens.” The track was used repeatedly on the popular American audition show “American Idol,” and became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive weeks.

When your studies or club activities aren’t going well and you’re feeling down, give it a listen—you’ll likely think, “Well, I guess days like this happen,” and feel a little lighter.

It’s a magical, encouraging song that makes you want to try again tomorrow.

If We Ever Broke UpMae Stephens35rank/position

Mae Stephens – If We Ever Broke Up (Lyric Video)

In 2023, a track by rising UK singer-songwriter Mae Stephens, who took TikTok by storm, became a hot topic.

Characterized by a funky beat and a memorable melody, the song channels the influence of Lily Allen and Kate Nash while boasting a sound reminiscent of Dua Lipa.

Its lyrics, depicting the end of a romantic relationship, resonated with many listeners, amplified by Mae’s expressive and powerful vocals.

Released in February by EMI Records, the track peaked at No.

20 on the UK Singles Chart, entered charts worldwide, and sparked a major reaction.