Hype it up! Western songs to rock your school festival
At school festivals and cultural festivals, there are regional differences, but many schools play background music.
Of course, you can play Japanese songs, but some might feel that Western music is better since the lyrics are less distracting.
So this time, we’ve selected Western songs that can liven up a school or cultural festival!
From timeless classics to the latest hits, we’ve picked a wide range.
We’ve also chosen some stylish tracks, so you should find songs that fit even a calm, café-style booth.
Be sure to check them out.
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Fire it up! Western songs that hype up school culture festivals (21–30)
SugarMaroon 5
If you’re looking for modern, stylish songs that are easy for a band to cover, Maroon 5 is a great choice.
They’re one of America’s leading pop bands and are known by anyone who likes Western music.
Among their hits, “Sugar” is especially famous as one of their signature songs, and it’s also easy for bands to cover—so definitely check it out.
Uptown FunkMark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
This is the song that helped Bruno Mars—now a global star—break through.
Its groovy rhythm is irresistible and perfect as background music for dancing.
If you’re confident in your vocal ability, it’s also great to sing with a band or at a karaoke contest.
It’s My LifeBon Jovi
A song by the world-famous American hard rock band Bon Jovi.
Because it’s often used on Japanese variety shows, even people who aren’t very familiar with Western music have probably heard it.
It’s the perfect number for band members thinking, “We want to stand out at the school festival by playing a cool Western song, but there’s no point if no one knows it.” From the heavy sound of the intro and verse to the transition into a catchy chorus, this track is packed with the cool essence of rock.
CloserThe Chainsmokers
When it comes to American EDM, The Chainsmokers likely come to mind.
“Closer” is known as one of their signature songs.
Unlike high-energy, hype-heavy EDM, it has a slightly more laid-back feel while still building excitement—a stylish number that really delivers.
Cake By The OceanDNCE
DNCE became instantly famous in Japan through their collaboration with SEKAI NO OWARI.
“Cake By The Ocean” is known as one of their signature songs.
It feels like a track made purely to get the crowd hyped, and just listening to it makes you want to dance.
Smells Like Teen SpritNirvana
When it comes to Nirvana, even people who don’t listen to Western music have probably at least heard the name.
Although the band disbanded after singer-guitarist Kurt Cobain passed away, they continue to influence many musicians to this day.
Their signature song, “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” is famous worldwide, so definitely put it on when you want everyone to get hyped.
StrangersKenya Grace
Kenya Grace is a South Africa–born, UK-raised singer-songwriter known for her style that fuses modern electronic pop with drum and bass.
Her much-talked-about new track, released in September 2023 as her major-label debut single, offers insightful reflections on shifting relationships and changing views on romance in the digital age.
The melodic chorus leaves a strong impression, while the drum and bass rhythms add irresistible energy.
With its live, high-impact feel, it seems like the kind of song that would really go off when dropped at school festivals or cultural events.