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

Dirty WorkAustin Mahone22rank/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.

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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Beautiful ThingsBenson Boone24rank/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.

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire25rank/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.

Live While We’re YoungOne Direction26rank/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.

Here With Me Feat. CHVRCHESMarshmello27rank/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.

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys28rank/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.