Friendship songs in Western music recommended for high school students: world classics and popular hits

You’ve Got a FriendCarole King

Carole King – You’ve Got a Friend (Official Audio)

Carole King is an American singer-songwriter who was tremendously active in the 1970s.

She began her career as an artist at 16 and worked primarily as a composer up until 1970.

Even then, her talent had already blossomed, and she produced a string of hit songs.

“You’ve Got a Friend” is one of the most popular works from her singer-songwriter period.

Its catchy lyrics and melody about friendship have been widely embraced, and the song continues to be covered by many artists today.

It’s a track I especially recommend to high school students who have a close friend.

Growing UpThe Linda Lindas

The Linda Lindas – “Growing Up”

If you’re looking for punchy, punkish tracks to enjoy with friends, The Linda Lindas are a great pick.

They’re a Los Angeles girls’ band made up of sisters, a cousin, and a friend, and a 2021 live video of theirs went viral on social media.

The title track of their 2022 debut album, “Growing Up,” is a hidden gem themed around friendship.

Riding on a brisk, power pop–tinged guitar sound, it delivers a straightforward message: with your crew, you can overcome anything and become whoever you want to be.

The song seems to embody the very bond through which they share the anxieties and hopes of growing up.

Also known for their appearance in the Netflix film Moxie, their positive energy is sure to give you a push as you take your next step forward!

Lean on MeBill Withers

Bill Withers – Lean on Me (Official Audio)

Bill Withers is known for his vocals that are soulful yet tinged with a certain ennui.

During the period when he was active, a genre called New Soul—distinct from the more passionate soul music that came before—was in vogue.

Even within that movement, he stood out as something of an outlier, gaining popularity with a style that paired laid-back, country-like melodies with soulful vocals.

His song “Lean on Me” strongly reflects these characteristics, and with lyrics depicting friendships from his boyhood, it achieved international acclaim.

It’s a must-listen for high schoolers who like relaxed melodies.

Were All In This TogetherHigh School Musical

High School musical – We’re all in this together

This is an insert song from a popular movie that depicts a high school life full of youthful energy that everyone longs for.

It builds excitement right from the start, and the chorus—where the cast’s distinctive voices come together—has such irresistible charm that it makes you want to start dancing.

Started From The BottomDrake

Drake – Started From the Bottom

Drake is one of Canada’s most representative rappers.

After first gaining recognition as an actor, he made a full transition into rap and has since earned international popularity and respect from around the world.

Because most of his releases rank high on the charts, many high school students are likely familiar with him.

His track “Started From The Bottom” is a well-known friendship anthem, with hard-edged lyrics about striving to rise up together with his crew that have won widespread popularity.

Somebody To You ft. Demi LovatoThe Vamps

The Vamps – Somebody To You ft. Demi Lovato

A friendship song with exhilarating accompaniment and The Vamps’ signature clear vocals that gently resonate in your heart—something you’ll want to listen to with friends after school.

It’s sung with feelings directed toward someone special, making it a track that captures youth, perfect for humming on the way home or singing together at karaoke.

Real FriendsKanye West

Real Friends

Kanye West is a rapper who’s respected by many heads as an icon of the hip-hop scene.

He’s so famous that any high schooler who likes hip-hop will know him.

As a friendship-themed song of his, I recommend “Real Friends.” It carries a profound message about what a true best friend really is, and it’s gained popularity as one of his underrated gems.

It’s a track I’d like high school students struggling with friendships to listen to.