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

CelestialEd Sheeran92rank/position

Ed Sheeran, Pokémon – Celestial [Official Video]

Released in 2022, Ed Sheeran’s “Celestial” is a song that makes boys and girls around the world swoon.

Its dreamy, warm sound, which reflects the world of Pokémon, evokes the thrills of everyday life.

The collaboration with the game firmly captures children’s hearts and is sure to resonate especially with those at an age where they dream of romance.

Let his gentle, compassionate voice immerse you in a feeling like celestial bodies coloring the world.

SacrificeBebe Rexha93rank/position

Bebe Rexha – Sacrifice [Official Music Video]

A true dance music classic, “Sacrifice.” This track was released in 2021 by American singer-songwriter Bebe Rexha and is included on the album “Better Mistakes,” released the same year.

Though it runs only about two and a half minutes, its catchy melody, shimmering piano sounds, and driving drum beat make for an undeniably cool vibe from start to finish.

Be sure to check it out.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Dancing Feet ft. DNCEKygo94rank/position

Kygo – Dancing Feet (Official Video) ft. DNCE

Kygo is a music producer whose upbeat musicality has earned him a global fanbase.

As one of Norway’s leading producers, he has been active since the late 2000s and is hugely popular in genres like tropical house and progressive house.

Among his works, a track I especially recommend is “Dancing Feet ft.

DNCE.” With its refreshingly summery sound, it’s perfect for listening during summer vacation.

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Ryo

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BoatEd Sheeran95rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Boat [Official Video]

Ed Sheeran, a singer-songwriter from the UK loved by many listeners for his catchy musical style.

I think many middle schoolers know about him too.

Among Ed Sheeran’s works, the one I especially recommend is Boat.

Content-wise, it’s a painfully heartbreaking breakup song.

For middle schoolers who’ve just gone through a breakup, I think the lyrics will be highly relatable, so definitely give it a listen.

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Ryo

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A COLD PLAYThe Kid LAROI96rank/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.

HeroMariah Carey97rank/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.

What Am IWhy Don’t We98rank/position

Why Don’t We “What Am I” (with Japanese subtitles)

The song “What Am I,” which Ed Sheeran wrote for the idol-type boy band Why Don’t We in Japan’s terms, features wonderfully romantic, dreamy lyrics.

The title itself also has a depth that makes you curious about its meaning at first glance.

Be sure to enjoy it while listening to the lyrics!

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Murakami Shinpei

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