Youthful Songs in Western Music: Rankings [2026]

Shape of YouEd Sheeran26rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

Ed Sheeran’s masterpiece “Shape of You,” which became a massive hit in 2019.

It’s a hit song that just about anyone in their teens or twenties knows.

But did you know that “Shape of You” is actually a perfect song for youth? The lyrics portray the fantasies and feelings of a young man—very much in the throes of adolescence—who falls in love with an older woman working at a bar.

If you’re a student currently crushing on an older woman, definitely give it a listen.

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Counting StarsOneRepublic27rank/position

OneRepublic – Counting Stars

It’s a 2014 single by the American five-piece rock band OneRepublic.

The song says that on sleepless nights, instead of counting money or worries, we should look up at the stars—it might remind us of what truly matters.

RoarKaty Perry28rank/position

Katy Perry – Roar

It’s a single by American singer-songwriter Katy Perry.

In 2015, she impressively ranked first among the highest-earning musicians, which surely reflects her high level of worldwide recognition.

SorryJustin Bieber29rank/position

Justin Bieber – Sorry (PURPOSE : The Movement)

This is a single by Justin Bieber, Canada’s top pop singer.

He debuted at 14 and has produced numerous hit songs around the world.

He has continued singing through his voice change and various other transitions.

Many people have probably heard his music at least once.

Let Her GoPassenger30rank/position

Passenger | Let Her Go (Official Video)

I think there are times when we take something for granted, lose it, and only then realize how precious it is.

This song is about that kind of feeling that anyone can have.

The warm sun, a lover by your side, the feeling of happy times.

It makes us recognize the importance of these everyday things we take for granted.