RAG MusicKids
A wonderful classic

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

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 loved by elementary school kids. A must-listen! Popular English songs (21–30)

ProblemAriana Grande ft. Iggy Azalea

Ariana Grande – Problem ft. Iggy Azalea
ProblemAriana Grande ft. Iggy Azalea

Problem is a collaboration between Ariana Grande, a female singer beloved worldwide as a pop icon, and rapper Iggy Azalea.

Released in 2014, the song was also included on the album My Everything, which came out the same year.

It reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts, and on iTunes it hit No.

1 just 37 minutes after launch, setting a record for the fastest-selling digital single.

Ariana Grande’s English is easy to understand and great for listening practice, so it’s recommended even for elementary school students who are just beginning to learn English.

HonestyBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Honesty (Official Video)
HonestyBilly Joel

“Honesty” is a single released in 1979 by Billy Joel, a male singer-songwriter who is a quintessential American piano-playing vocalist.

It’s a ballad whose powerful vocals and beautiful piano tones really touch the heart.

The lyrics use a lot of straightforward grammar, making them perfect for listening practice and studying English grammar.

It’s also performed by Harami-chan, a YouTuber pianist who’s hugely popular with elementary school students, so give it a listen if you’d like!

My WayFrank Sinatra

It’s one of the world’s most iconic songs, loved by people of all ages.

Since dads and moms often hum it, children naturally learn it too.

As long as you can sing the “my way” part, you’re pretty much set, so it’s a number that elementary school kids love.

ABCThe Jackson 5

When it comes to songs popular for elementary school English learning, The Jackson 5’s “ABC” is a classic.

Speaking of The Jackson 5, they were a sibling idol group with Michael Jackson as the lead vocalist, known for cranking out massive hits.

“ABC” was released as a single in 1970 and reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

With a title that uses the first three letters of the alphabet—essential for learning English—along with its upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, it’s perfect as a first step into Western pop music.

It’s a highly recommended track for anyone just starting to learn English!

ThrillerMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Thriller (Official 4K Video)
ThrillerMichael Jackson

One of the signature songs by Michael Jackson, who reigned as a global pop star, is “Thriller.” It’s the title track from Thriller, released in 1983 and known as the best-selling album of all time.

The horror movie-style music video, which runs for about 13 minutes, also became a hot topic, and the dance featured in it is popular among elementary school students as choreography to perform on Halloween.

Michael’s vocal style is distinctive and not necessarily easy to understand in English, but there’s spoken dialogue included as well, so give it a try and listen carefully!

ImagineJohn Lennon

IMAGINE. (Ultimate Mix, 2020) – John Lennon & The Plastic Ono Band (with the Flux Fiddlers) HD
ImagineJohn Lennon

When it comes to John Lennon’s anti-war songs, the single “Imagine,” released in 1971, immediately comes to mind.

It topped both the U.S.

and U.K.

charts and has remained a beloved classic for many years.

The lyrics, imbued with his wish for peace, truly resonate as you listen.

Because the song repeats a similar structure while slightly changing the wording, it’s easy to memorize and excellent for learning English.

“Imagine,” which also helps learners understand social issues, is a song I really hope elementary school students will listen to.

You Are My SunshineElizabeth Mitchell

Elizabeth Mitchell – You Are My Sunshine lyrics
You Are My SunshineElizabeth Mitchell

This is a song by the singer Elizabeth Mitchell, who has had a string of global smash hits.

It has a gentle, embracing feel, so it enjoys overwhelming support among elementary school children.

It’s also popular as a song that moms and dads often want their kids to listen to.