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

NumbLinkin Park22rank/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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Murakami Shinpei

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Beautiful ThingsBenson Boone23rank/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 & 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.

Live While We’re YoungOne Direction25rank/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. CHVRCHESMarshmello26rank/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 Boys27rank/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.

We Will Rock YouQueen28rank/position

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

With its powerful handclaps and stomping rhythm, this staple track energizes sports festivals and dance events.

Released in October 1977 by the British rock band Queen from the album “News of the World,” the song celebrates the determination to overcome setbacks and hardships in pursuit of victory.

As a rousing anthem symbolizing unity and fighting spirit, it continues to be embraced across sports scenes worldwide.

The foot stomps and handclaps recorded by the band members themselves create a sense of togetherness that draws in the audience, and in 2002 it was also adopted as the title song for the musical “We Will Rock You.” It’s the perfect choice for those who want to bring an entire venue together during school sports days or dance performances.