Recommended Western music for college students: world classics and popular songs

SurrenderLalah Hathaway, Pharell Williams

Lalah Hathaway, Pharrell Williams – Surrender (Audio)

A soul-stirring track whose powerful beats, claps, and foot-stomping rhythms resonate deep within.

It’s packed with a positive message that gives you the courage and hope to overcome hardship.

Created for the soundtrack of the film Hidden Figures, released in December 2016, the song brilliantly fuses Lalah Hathaway’s commanding vocals with Pharrell Williams’s distinctive musical sensibilities.

The lyrics gently nudge you forward—“find your path, keep your pace, and move ahead without hesitation”—and are sure to encourage you.

This is a must-listen, especially for anyone feeling anxious as they stand on the cusp of a new chapter in life.

All My Life ft. J. ColeLil Durk

Lil Durk – All My Life ft. J. Cole

Lil Durk, a leading figure in drill music born from the streets of Chicago, first rose to prominence with his 2012 mixtape “Life Ain’t No Joke,” and later signed with major label Def Jam Recordings.

His 2015 album “Remember My Name” reached No.

14 on the Billboard 200, propelling him into the spotlight.

He is known for his vocal ability to delicately capture emotional nuances and for lyrics that reflect Chicago’s street culture.

In 2020, his album “Just Cause Y’all Waited 2” peaked at No.

2 on the Billboard 200, cementing his status as a top artist.

He is also known as the founder of Only the Family (OTF) and is dedicated to fostering young talent.

Highly recommended for music fans who seek authentic depictions of real life and emotionally charged expression.

SHOUT OUT TO MY EXLittle Mix

Little Mix – Shout Out to My Ex (Official Video)

If you’ve ever experienced a heartbreaking breakup, this is a song you can’t help but relate to.

It’s a refreshing, feel-good pop tune that gives you the courage to put an end to past relationships and start a new chapter in life.

The lyrics are packed with the strength to regain your confidence and look forward.

Released in October 2016, it topped the UK Singles Chart for three consecutive weeks.

It’s a full-on girl-power anthem that showcases everything great about Little Mix.

Perfect for when you want to bounce back from heartbreak or fire yourself up.

Singing it with friends to get hyped is highly recommended!

Lean OnMajor Lazer

Major Lazer & DJ Snake – Lean On (feat. MØ) [Official 4K Music Video]

This song became famous after being featured in commercials by a Japanese mobile carrier.

Although it’s a breakup song, it’s unusual in that the melody doesn’t convey a sense of despair.

Yet once you learn the meaning of the lyrics and listen again, the depth of its message hits you, and it somehow leaves you with a tinge of sadness—a true classic.

Don’t Wanna Know (Audio) ft. Kendrick LamarMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Don’t Wanna Know ft. Kendrick Lamar (Audio)

Another sweet and bittersweet love song has been born.

It expresses the pain of heartbreak and the strength to keep moving forward.

The comfortable dance beat perfectly matches Maroon 5’s smooth vocals, and Kendrick Lamar’s rap part adds depth to the track.

Released in October 2016, the song became so popular that it reached the top 10 in 23 countries.

It was also included on the album Red Pill Blues and featured in the dance game Just Dance 2017.

College students, why not give it a listen at a party with friends or during some alone time? You’ll surely be captivated by the heartfelt lyrics and the rhythm that makes you want to move.

AloneMarshmello

Marshmello – Alone (Official Music Video)

My favorite artist.

And a song that seems to really resonate with students, especially college students.

The music video features adorable characters, which is charming, and since they perform in those looks at live shows too, the crowd really gets excited.

The song also rides the trends skillfully and is fantastic.

AnimalsMartin Garrix

Martin Garrix – Animals (Official Video)

This song is Western-style music you might hear in clubs—club music.

Built around a pleasing sound that feels like processed glockenspiel tones, it’s hugely popular with partygoers.

It seems like a track that would go over very well with college students, so I recommend it.