Carefully selected Western songs to listen to while studying—only tracks that really deepen your focus

In My BloodShawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes – In My Blood

While laying bare his own vulnerabilities, Shawn Mendes’s work gives you the strength to face adversity.

Its melodies, carrying anxieties and inner conflicts on a powerful rock sound, will surely give you a push—saying “Don’t give up!”—when you’re stuck and your studies aren’t going well.

Released in March 2018, the song was included as the lead track on the album “Shawn Mendes.” Its message was highly praised, earning nominations in major categories at the 61st Grammy Awards in 2019.

It was also embraced as an anthem supporting Portugal’s national soccer team.

There may be nights when your grades plateau and you feel alone.

But if you hold onto the resolve to rise again and again, you’ll surely find the courage to sit back down at your desk.

HappyPharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Video)

This song by American artist Pharrell Williams features a refreshing rhythm that blends elements of neo-soul and funk, expressing the joy of life and a positive outlook.

Its lyrics convey the importance of staying happy even in the most challenging situations, empowering every listener.

Released in November 2013, it was created for the soundtrack of the animated film Despicable Me 2 and was later included on the album G I R L.

Its appeal is evident from its achievement of holding the No.

1 spot on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100 for 10 consecutive weeks.

It’s perfect as background music for event entries or dance performances at school sports days, with the power to unite all participants.

RoarKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Roar

If you want to cheer women up and encourage them, a Katy Perry song is probably your best bet.

With this song, I think everyone from young students to adult women can draw strength from it and find a chance to bounce back.

Men can enjoy it too, but it’s definitely more geared toward women.

Bye Bye Bye*NSYNC

*NSYNC – Bye Bye Bye (Official Video)

The song “Bye Bye Bye,” used as the opening for the film Deadpool & Wolverine, is, as everyone knows, a classic hit by *NSYNC.

Perhaps because it was used almost in full within the movie, the association of Deadpool = Bye Bye Bye has really stuck.

Surprisingly, the song sits in a relatively low vocal range and doesn’t require the kind of intricate, R&B-style melodic runs.

As long as you keep the groove in mind, you should be able to sing it without any issues—so consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Girl on FireAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – Girl on Fire (Official Video)

Alicia Keys’s “Girl on Fire” is a song that cheers on every woman who shines in her own way.

Its powerful beat and stirring vocals turn the wall of loneliness that exam-takers face into a flame to overcome it.

The memorable, repeated phrases are perfect for a quick refresh between study sessions and can boost your motivation.

Alicia’s warm voice feels as if she’s encouraging you directly.

It’s a timeless track that supports the daily effort of staying focused on your studies.