A wonderful classic

Classic Western songs that elementary schoolers love. Must-listen! Popular English-language songs.

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!

English classes have finally started in elementary schools, and with the recent popularity of K-pop, elementary school students now have more opportunities to encounter languages other than Japanese in various places, don’t they?

Some kids like studying English, while others find it difficult.

In this article, we’ll introduce not only the K-pop hits popular among elementary school students, but also classic Western songs everyone knows—perfect recommendations for the first English songs to listen to.

Start by listening to a song you like and look up the meaning of the lyrics.

It might spark a love for language learning—not just English!

Classic Western songs that elementary school kids love. Must-listen! Popular English songs (1–10)

This is me!The Greatest Showman Cast

The Greatest Showman Cast – This Is Me (Official Lyric Video)

This is me!The Greatest Showman Cast

“This Is Me” was the theme song of the musical film The Greatest Showman, which portrayed the showman P.

T.

Barnum.

The soundtrack was released in 2017, and the song won Best Original Song at the 75th Golden Globe Awards.

It’s a moving message song that powerfully sings of the struggles and determination of characters grappling with their insecurities.

You, as an elementary school student, probably have worries and doubts too.

If you listen to “This Is Me” while looking at the Japanese translation, it’s sure to give you courage.

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It’s a small worldDisney

IT’S A SMALL WORLD After All Lyrics

It’s a small worldDisney

“It’s a Small World” was written as the theme song for the Disney theme park attraction of the same name found around the world.

Since then, it’s also become beloved as a children’s song that young kids sing.

Its cheerful, uplifting sound is perfect for first-time English learners.

I’ve even heard that some ninth-grade English textbooks include phrases from “It’s a Small World,” so it’s a good idea to learn it while you’re still in elementary school!

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SugarMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)

SugarMaroon 5

The music video that became a hot topic for crashing weddings as a surprise is Maroon 5’s “Sugar.” Released as a single in 2014, it reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts and ranked No.

4 on Japan’s Western music chart.

The music video on YouTube has racked up an astounding 3 billion views and counting.

Its catchy melody and happy sound really lift your spirits when you listen.

The lyrics are romantic and sweet—perfect for a wedding song—so be sure to check out the Japanese translation!

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High HopesPanic! At The Disco

Panic! At The Disco – High Hopes (Official Video)

High HopesPanic! At The Disco

Panic! At The Disco is a distinctive rock band formed in Las Vegas, USA.

Their music features a unique sound that blends elements of pop punk, emo, electronica, dance, and indie rock, with emotionally charged lyrics and theatrical flair making a strong impression.

This work centers on the spirit of setting lofty goals and overcoming obstacles to make dreams come true.

It offers listeners hope and optimism, encouraging them to believe in themselves and take on the impossible.

It’s a song that can give you courage just by listening, and one we’d love for elementary school students—who are painting sparkling dreams of the future—to hear as well.

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Count on MeBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Count on Me (Official Lyric Video)

Count on MeBruno Mars

Bruno Mars is a singer-songwriter from Hawaii.

His songs portray the strength and timelessness of friendship.

They express a strong determination to overcome any hardship for someone else and the importance of supporting each other.

Although the song is included on the album Doo-Wops & Hooligans and was not released as a single, it is popular among fans.

With its universal message about valuing friends and its melodic, easy-to-understand tune, it seems ideal as Western music for elementary school students to listen to.

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