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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Hype It Up! Western Songs That Get the Crowd Going at School Cultural Festivals (1–10)
WaterTyla
The breakout work by South Africa’s rising star Tyla makes a striking impression with its dazzling sound that fuses pop, R&B, and Afrobeats.
Her passionate vocals blend with Amapiano rhythms, brilliantly showcasing refined musicality and youthful sensibility.
Released in July 2023 as the lead single from the album “Tyla,” it reached No.
15 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100.
At the 2024 Grammy Awards, it won Best African Music Performance, opening up new possibilities for South African music.
The track has also earned fervent support from young people worldwide, with its dance challenge going viral on social media.
Perfect for school festivals and dance performances, its exhilarating beat and outstanding groove will instantly elevate the atmosphere of any venue.
What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction
An encouragement song full of kindness and hope, dedicated to women who struggle with self-confidence.
The popular British group One Direction delivers the importance of loving yourself just as you are through a captivating melody and memorable lyrics.
Its refreshing sound, blending power pop and pop rock, pairs perfectly with the bright, uplifting message.
Released in September 2011 as the lead single from their debut album Up All Night, the track achieved worldwide success.
It has been featured in numerous TV shows and commercials, and won the Brit Award for British Single in 2012.
It’s a perfect song to bring energy and courage as background music for school festivals and cultural events.
Lil Boo ThangPaul Russell
Released in August 2023, “Lil Boo Thang” is a track by Paul Russell, an American rapper, singer, and business consultant.
Sampling the 1977 classic “Best of My Love,” it’s crafted into a positive tune with a funky beat.
The balance between Russell’s passionate rap and the mellow melody is spot-on, making it perfect for school festivals and cultural events.
The chorus, in particular, has an irresistible groove that makes your body move without thinking.
It’s an ideal song for having fun and dancing with friends.
EspressoSabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter, an American artist known for her captivating sound that fuses pop and funk, first launched her career as a Disney Channel actress.
Released by Island Records in April 2024, this work is an ambitious piece in which she proudly sings about her own allure.
Her energetic, humorous vocals add a refreshing splash of color as background music for school festivals and cultural events.
A track from the album “Short n’ Sweet,” it topped the UK Singles Chart and reached No.
3 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
The music video, directed by Dave Meyers and set on a beach, brings out her charm to the fullest.
Hugely popular especially among young listeners and a hot topic on social media, this song resonates pleasantly even in calmer spaces like concession stands and rest areas.
See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa
This warm and heartfelt track weaves together an emotional, melodious piano line with powerful rap.
A collaboration between American artists Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth, it’s a touching message song that reflects on friendship, farewell, and the hope of reunion.
Released in March 2015 as part of the soundtrack for the film Furious 7, it became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 consecutive weeks.
Its positive lyrics about the importance of bonds with friends and family, paired with a melody that resonates deeply, are sure to soothe many hearts.
It’s a recommended song for school festivals or cultural festivals—perfect for strengthening class unity or reminiscing about shared memories.
Good TimeOwl City & Carly Rae Jepsen
This song features a refreshing summer electro-pop sound that resonates pleasantly.
The duet between OWL CITY, the solo project of American musician Adam Young, and Canadian singer Carly Rae Jepsen blends beautifully, creating a bright atmosphere.
Conveying the importance of enjoying moments without trying too hard, the track was released in June 2012 and received major acclaim, especially in North America.
It reached No.
8 on the U.
S.
Billboard chart and sold over one million copies.
With its exhilarating melody and positive lyrics, it helps refresh the mind.
It’s perfect as background music for school festivals and events, naturally lifting the spirits of those who listen.
Not Like UsKendrick Lamar
A track by American artist Kendrick Lamar that fuses a grand, hard-hitting beat with highly message-driven lyrics.
The distinctly West Coast rhythms and powerful rap will comfortably envelop the school festival venue.
Released in May 2024, the song expresses a deep affection for the local community and a strong will to stay true to one’s beliefs.
The Mustard-produced beat carries an open, breezy feel that evokes summer beaches and barbecues, making it perfect for an activity-filled school festival.
Featured on the album “GNX,” it reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Its well-balanced vibe makes it suitable for various settings such as festival food stalls and rest areas.