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!
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Classic Western songs that elementary school kids love. Must-listen! Popular English songs (1–10)
Top of the WorldCarpenters
One of the Carpenters’ timeless hits loved across generations is “Top of the World.” Released as a single in 1973, it became a massive success, reaching number one on the U.S.
charts.
In Japan, it has been covered by many artists and featured in TV commercials, so there are probably quite a few people for whom this was the first Western song they ever heard.
The lyrics are gentle and many of the lines are fairly easy to understand with basic knowledge, making it great for English education.
It’s definitely a song I hope elementary school children listen to!
World’s Smallest ViolinAJR
AJR’s song “World’s Smallest Violin” is a work that portrays the difficulty of getting others to understand your troubles.
The message embedded in the track is the conflict of feeling that one’s personal problems seem trivial when compared to someone else’s bigger issues.
The protagonist’s inner life is candidly revealed, touching on a grandfather’s wartime experiences and friendships.
While emphasizing the need for emotional expression, it also highlights society’s tendency to dismiss emotions.
It’s a track that strongly reflects the musical identity of AJR, an American indie pop band.
Released on the 2021 album OK ORCHESTRA, it became a viral hit on social media.
It has also racked up views in YouTube Shorts and is hugely popular even among elementary school students.
Fight SongRachel Platten
Rachel Platten is an American singer-songwriter who learned piano and guitar from a young age and has nurtured a deep passion for music.
Her songs celebrate the importance of overcoming life’s hardships and believing in one’s inner strength, inspiring courage and hope in many listeners.
This piece marked a turning point for Platten and stands as a powerful anthem that symbolizes her musical journey.
After its release, it was featured across various media and events, and was memorably used during the 2016 U.S.
presidential election.
Laden with a message that resonates differently with each listener, this classic offers comfort to anyone facing setbacks and provides the energy to face tomorrow.
BonesImagine Dragons
Imagine Dragons is an American band that captivates listeners around the world with a powerful yet emotional rock sound.
Their songs give us courage and hope to face life’s hardships and uncertainties.
Among them, one track that has become one of the band’s signature songs is a deeply insightful work that emphasizes the importance of believing in the inner strength that lies within each of us.
Released in April 2022, the song drew major attention, ranking high on Billboard’s rock charts.
Its music video, which evokes the spirit of a Michael Jackson classic, also became a hot topic.
In fact, the song is hugely popular in the hit game Fortnite and as a so-called “sound-sync” trend on TikTok.
There are surely even elementary school students for whom this is their very first English-language song!
What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction
One Direction is a British-Irish male pop group that captures the hearts of young people with powerful messages and universal themes.
Their debut single is a positive and influential song that sings of love for a woman who doesn’t realize her own beauty.
With a catchy melody and refreshing vocals, it boosts listeners’ self-esteem.
Released as the lead single from the album Up All Night, it’s also perfect for occasions that express love, such as weddings and proposals.
The straightforward lyrics praising inner beauty are the best words to convey appreciation to lovers.
Although it’s a song from the early 2010s, it’s also a classic I’d highly recommend as Western music for elementary school students to enjoy!