Hype it up! Western songs to rock your school festival

Rap GodEminem

Eminem – Rap God (Explicit)

Eminem’s masterpiece, “Rap God.” Released in 2013, this track holds a Guinness World Record as the hit song with the most words.

Of course, it’s not just crammed with words—every line is tightly connected, and the rhymes are on a high level.

Hip-hop culture has been taking root in Japan recently, so I think it would really hype up a school festival or cultural festival if you play it! Definitely check it out.

LighterGalantis, David Guetta, & 5 Seconds of Summer

Galantis, David Guetta, & 5 Seconds of Summer – Lighter (Official Music Video)

“Lighter” by Galantis, David Guetta, and Australian pop-rock band 5 Seconds of Summer.

Luke Hemmings’s vocals from 5 Seconds of Summer glide over stirring strings, an irresistibly catchy chorus, and an exultant beat, lifting your mood from spring into summer.

Positioned at the intersection of EDM and pop, this collaboration—pairing Galantis, known for styles like dance-pop and club dance, with David Guetta, who earned huge acclaim with “Heartbreak Anthem”—is truly spectacular.

With its upbeat vibe, it’s sure to energize any venue as background music for school and cultural festivals.

BonesImagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons – Bones (Official Music Video)

Imagine Dragons are an alternative rock band that churns out hit songs with perfectly crafted compositions that are both original and irresistibly catchy.

Their track “Bones,” released in 2022, went viral on TikTok, so if you’re a student, you’ve probably heard it at least once.

With its cool vibe and a particularly striking drop, it’s better suited for use in a school festival performance or event rather than as simple background music.

Mi GenteJ Balvin, Willy William

J Balvin, Willy William – Mi Gente (Official Video)

Mi Gente is a collaboration between French record producer Willy William and leading Latin pop artist J Balvin.

Released in 2018, the track features an addictive melody that blends reggaeton with hip-hop.

While its structure is simple, the strong groove makes it more than compelling—ideal for energizing events like school festivals or cultural fairs.

Never Be LonelyJax Jones, Zoe Wees

Jax Jones, Zoe Wees – Never Be Lonely (Official Video)

A track that brings together Grammy-nominated producer Jax Jones and German pop singer Zoe Wees.

While it’s dance music, its melodious sound is a standout feature.

Centered on the theme of friendship, it carries a warm message that you’ll never be alone no matter the situation.

Released in February 2024, it also drew attention for its collaboration with the Pokémon 25th anniversary album.

The music video features a futuristic world and Pikachu, which garnered a lot of buzz.

It’s also a great pick for a school festival dance—an upbeat song everyone can dance to and enjoy together.

X ft. KAROL GJonas Brothers

Jonas Brothes ft. KAROL G – X (Official Music Video)

The Jonas Brothers are a pop rock band consisting of three brothers: the eldest, Kevin; the second, Joe; and the youngest, Nick.

Although they’re labeled as a pop rock band, their musical style is very diverse, and the vibe varies from song to song.

Their track “X ft.

KAROL G” is a collaboration with Colombian artist Karol G and has an overall Latin flair.

While it’s not a fast-tempo song, it’s the kind that really gets you moving, so why not consider using it for a school cultural festival or campus event?

Intentions (feat. Quavo)Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber – Intentions (Official Video (Short Version)) ft. Quavo

Justin Bieber’s song “Intentions.” In the music video, which drew a lot of attention, Justin makes a surprise visit to a facility that supports people who have experienced abuse and other hardships, and the video was filmed there.

The song reflects his kind heart, and its tone is very gentle and calming.

How can we use this song at a school or cultural festival? Since it’s a slow, relaxing track, it would work well in rest areas or as background music for certain booths or exhibits.