Western songs we want elementary school students to listen to: recommended classics and hit tracks
These days, elementary school students receive active English education, and thanks to the growth of the internet they can access music from around the world anytime.
It’s a time when many kids enjoy music without distinguishing between Western and Japanese songs.
In this article, we researched recommended Western music for elementary school students living in such a global era.
From that famous theme song used in an animated movie, to hit songs you’ve probably heard somewhere, to timeless classics that can even help with studying English—we’ve put together a diverse selection!
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Western songs we want elementary school kids to listen to: recommended classics and hits (11–20)
ImagineJohn Lennon
John Lennon of the Beatles’ signature song “Imagine.” Released in 1971, it’s famous as a piece that suits the themes of love and peace.
It is also known worldwide as a masterpiece that has had a major impact on music history since the 1970s.
Because this song is a message song left by John Lennon, it may serve as an opportunity for elementary school students to think about war and peace.
Like Beatles songs, I think it’s a piece that’s relatively easy to try translating into English.
Stand By MeBen E. King
You can tell the song has started the moment you hear that striking melodic bassline and the swish of the guiro.
Ben E.
King’s “Stand By Me” inevitably brings to mind the 1986 film of the same name.
That movie centers on four boys, and it instantly recalls the scene of them walking along the railroad tracks.
The lyrics are quite literary, and I think the song is perfectly suited to the start of a grand adventure that gives you courage.
It’s a track I’d love for the boys to hear and draw strength from.
Only TimeEnya
Released in 2000, the Irish singer Enya became a huge hit in Japan as well.
Among her songs, “Only Time” is certainly the most famous.
It’s popular as a healing piece, and its deeply echoing, richly layered chorus seems to gently ease the tension from your shoulders when you listen with your eyes closed.
How should we introduce this song to elementary school children? Rather than only offering fast, glittery tracks, letting them listen to pieces that highlight ensemble might lead to new discoveries.
Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis
The British rock band OASIS’s anthem “Don’t Look Back In Anger.” It’s a song that symbolizes the movement of the ’90s.
The chorus is definitely one that makes everyone want to sing along.
If you want to listen to Western rock bands or are interested in Western rock, I think this song is the perfect entry point.
I’d be happy if, starting from this song, you dive into other bands and many great tracks, and grow more and more interested in Western rock!
Bad DayDaniel Powter
Daniel Powter’s song “Bad Day.” The title might sound a bit negative at first, but if you try translating the English lyrics into Japanese, your impression will change completely.
It was a huge hit in 2005, a warm track that gives you a boost when you’re feeling down.
Even years after its release, it remains a timeless classic, and the melody is wonderful—listening to it and making it the first English song you can sing as part of your repertoire would be pretty cool!
It’s A Small WorldDisneyland Children’s Chorus
When it comes to Disneyland, the must-ride attraction is “It’s a Small World.” The song was written specifically for the attraction in 1962.
Yet its message is both very simple and very important.
The title, which translates into Japanese as “Chiisana Sekai” (A Small World), invites us to think about what its true meaning might be—something great to explore together as a parent and child.
With its delightfully fun and exciting fanfare, even those who haven’t been to the park will surely enjoy listening to it.
Western songs we want elementary school students to listen to: recommended classics and hit tracks (21–30)
Live While We’re YoungOne Direction
A five-member boys’ group from the UK.
The members all passed a music audition show, and they’re all great singers.
They made their major debut in 2011 and became so popular worldwide that they were called “the second coming of the Beatles.” They’re now down to four and each is pursuing a solo career.
All their numbers are pop and approachable, but this song is recommended because its theme is youth.
