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

Teenage DreamKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Teenage Dream (Official Music Video)

A song by American singer-songwriter Katy Perry.

It’s a purely happy track about a boy who makes her feel like a teenager.

The music video, directed by Yoann Lemoine, was filmed in Santa Barbara in 2010 and features actor Josh Kloss.

PrayingKe$ha

Kesha – Praying (Official Video)

A track that sings about feeling lonely yet being proud of yourself.

It’s a powerful, gospel-tinged ballad released in 2017 by American singer Kesha.

Ryan Lewis, also known for his collaborations with Macklemore, was involved in its production.

A Moment Like ThisKelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson – A Moment Like This (Official Video)

A song released in 2002 as Kelly Clarkson’s debut single, known for winning the American TV show “American Idol.” It is about making dreams come true.

It was the best-selling song in the United States in 2002.

Lean On (feat. MØ)Major Lazer & DJ Snake

Major Lazer & DJ Snake – Lean On (feat. MØ) [Official 4K Music Video]

This is a song whose voice, brimming with the radiance of youth, resonates deep in the heart.

Captivating young people around the world, it became the most-streamed song on Spotify just a few months after its release in March 2015.

Its light, dance-floor-stirring rhythm pairs perfectly with MØ’s clear, translucent vocals.

The lyrics, which sing of a universal desire to be close to someone alongside the unique anxieties and hopes of youth, will leave a lasting impression on listeners.

It’s perfect for getting hyped with friends or psyching yourself up.

Give it a listen, and you’ll surely feel energized for tomorrow.

The ClimbMiley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus – The Climb

It’s included on the album “Hannah Montana: The Movie.” Give it a listen when you’re working hard toward your dreams but feeling a bit discouraged.

It will surely bring tears to your eyes.

It will surely bring a smile to your face.

It’s a song like hope—a source of support for the heart.

PhotographNickelback

Nickelback – Photograph

When it comes to tear-jerking Western songs I want high school students to listen to, the first one that comes to mind is Nickelback’s “Photograph.” Its warm lyrics feel like they contain everything about youth, and they bring tears to my eyes.

It’s a song I’d love for you to listen to on graduation day.

Bless the Broken RoadRascal Flatts

Rascal Flatts – Bless the Broken Road Offical Music video

A song about how the process of moving on from past relationships can ultimately lead to better love.

It was originally recorded by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band for their 1994 album “Acoustic.” This version by Rascal Flatts was released in 2004 and spent five weeks at No.

1 on the country charts.