Touching Western songs recommended for high school students: world classics and popular hits

Whenever, WhereverShakira

Shakira – Whenever, Wherever (Official HD Video)

Shakira is a Latin pop singer from Colombia.

When she debuted, she was often dismissed—people even said her voice sounded like a mountain goat—but she has since grown into a singer with unwavering popularity.

In 2002, she won an MTV Video Award with the Spanish-language version of this song.

Gimme LoveSia

Sia – Gimme Love (Official Music Video)

A heartfelt semi-ballad that expresses a strong desire for emotional connection and affirmation.

Sia’s distinctive, operatic vocals blend exquisitely with a trap-leaning beat.

Released in September 2023, it arrived as the lead single from Sia’s first solo pop album in eight years, Reasonable Woman.

The lyrics, which stress the importance of being loved and appreciated, are striking, making it a song that resonates with those struggling in their relationships and with high school students looking to boost their self-esteem.

Precisely because it’s such a sensitive time, why not listen to this track and take a moment to face your feelings?

Long LiveTaylor Swift

Long Live

This is a moving song whose lyrics use images of kings and queens to portray the fulfillment of life.

Delivered by Taylor Swift, the track is a tribute song filled with gratitude to her fans.

After its debut on NBC’s Speak Now Thanksgiving Special on November 25, 2010, it was added to the setlists of many tours.

The lyrics, which emphasize the challenges faced while striving for success and the resilience and determination needed to overcome obstacles, are sure to gently encourage high school students stepping into a new environment.

It’s the perfect song for celebrating life’s victorious moments or reaffirming the bonds you share with friends.

Blank SpaceTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Blank Space

It’s said that one in four or five people around the world has listened to this song.

Since it’s included on the album that was reportedly the best-selling from 2014 to 2015, it’s a track you should keep in mind when exploring Western pop music.

You could say it’s a light tune that’s easy to listen to for a quick break.

I Look to YouWhitney Houston

Whitney Houston – I Look to You (Official HD Video)

This is a track that became the title of the final album by songstress Whitney Houston, whose life was cut short in 2012.

With powerful warmth, she sings, “You made me stronger,” and it’s undoubtedly a song that will make you fall in love with Whitney’s charm.

Wild Flower박효신

박효신(Park Hyo Shin) – 야생화(Wild Flower) Special Video

This is a song by Park Hyo-shin released in 2014, his first in six years.

He is regarded as one of the most skilled male vocalists, and as the title “Wild Flower” suggests, it’s a soul song that encourages you and gives you the strength to persevere.

We are the WorldUSA For Africa

USA For Africa – We Are The World (HQ official Video)

Centered around Michael Jackson, this is a charity group’s song for famine relief in Africa.

It’s a wonderful track that lets you enjoy many iconic Western pop vocals all at once.

Please give it a listen as a first step into Western music.