[Middle School Students] Popular Western Music Ranking [By Generation]

I Really Like YouCarly Rae Jepsen85rank/position

Carly Rae Jepsen – I Really Like You

A hit song by Carly Rae Jepsen that enjoys overwhelming support from junior high and high school girls.

The repeated “really” in the chorus sticks in your head, so once you hear it, it won’t leave you.

It’s a song that teenage girls can get pumped up and sing along to—guaranteed to hype you up.

Made You LookMeghan Trainor86rank/position

Meghan Trainor – Made You Look (Official Music Video)

It’s a song packed with positive messages.

Taken from Meghan Trainor’s fifth album, “Takin’ It Back,” it centers on confidence and self-love.

Set to a lively doo-wop rhythm, it declares that you can be attractive even without wearing expensive brands.

Released in October 2022, it climbed high on the charts in many countries.

The music video, made in collaboration with the popular game Candy Crush Saga, also generated buzz.

With its pop sensibilities and cute vibe, it’s a tune that makes you want to dance.

It’s a perfect song for junior high school students who want to value their individuality.

The MottoTiësto & Ava Max87rank/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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Light SwitchCharlie Puth88rank/position

Charlie Puth – Light Switch [Official Music Video]

Singer-songwriter Charlie Puth, known for his high vocal range and wide musical versatility, has gained significant popularity.

He became instantly famous for singing See You Again, the theme song of the film Furious 7.

His new track is Light Switch.

Perhaps riding the synth-pop boom sparked by The Weeknd, it features a sound that’s very similar to his hit song Blinding Lights.

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This Is MeThe Greatest Showman Cast89rank/position

The Greatest Showman Cast – This Is Me (Official Audio)

It’s a powerful anthem that teaches us the importance of taking pride in our true selves.

This moving song is performed by The Greatest Showman Cast, featuring Hugh Jackman from Australia.

With its gospel-style chorus, it celebrates the beauty of not fearing your differences and turning them into your shining strength.

Included on the film’s album, The Greatest Showman: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, it was used in the figure skating exhibition at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, bringing an emotional close to the event.

When you’ve lost confidence by comparing yourself to others, listening to this song will help you affirm your unique individuality with strength.

It’s a special track that gives you the courage to take that first step.

It’ll Be OkayShawn Mendes90rank/position

Shawn Mendes – It’ll Be Okay

A piano ballad released in December 2021.

Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes delivers a quiet portrayal of the pain and acceptance of facing a breakup.

It begins by questioning the end of a relationship, then offers a vow to keep loving the other person—a message that resonates, wrapped in organ-like synths and strings.

When you’ve parted ways with someone important, whether in friendship or romance, there are moments when you want to tell yourself, “It’s going to be okay.” This song gently stays by your side in those moments.

The music video, set against nighttime views of his hometown Toronto and snowy scenes, leaves a strong impression with its world that balances loneliness and warmth.

Recommended for those going through heartbreak, as well as middle schoolers struggling with a relationship.

Training SeasonDua Lipa91rank/position

Dua Lipa – Training Season (Official Music Video)

A great recommendation for middle schoolers who want to wake up to stylish Western pop from the morning is a track from Dua Lipa’s third album, “Radical Optimism.” Released in February 2024, the song features a disco beat, syncopated guitars, and shimmering synths.

The lyrics carry an empowered message—“I’m past the stage of teaching someone how to love me from scratch”—portraying a positive, self-respecting outlook on life.

With piano phrases reminiscent of ABBA and girl-group-style choruses, it has a feel-good groove that will get your body moving first thing in the morning.

It was also featured in a Porsche commercial and performed at the Grammys and the BRIT Awards, making it a standout track.

Perfect for boosting your energy before heading to school!