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

GoodbyeSpice Girls

Spice Girls – Goodbye (Official Music Video)

This song by the popular British girl group the Spice Girls features a dreamy, mellow melody and poignant lyrics addressed to a loved one, expressing feelings about parting with heartfelt directness.

It’s a perfect track for graduation season.

ComplicatedAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Complicated (Official Video)

Many people still remember the shock when Avril Lavigne, the eternal strongest princess of the rock world, made her debut at the young age of 17.

“Complicated,” one of her early signature songs included on her 2002 debut album Let Go—which achieved an astonishing 18 million sales worldwide—is a masterpiece packed to the brim with the genuine feelings of a teenage girl.

Its bittersweet yet breezy band arrangement and melody have never faded, retaining a charm that captivates young people in any era.

The music video, which highlights Avril’s stunning teen idol beauty, is also a must-see!

Stand By MeBen E. King

Ben E. King – Stand By Me (Official Audio)

You could even call it an anthem to eternal friendship.

The classic “Stand by Me,” a song everyone has heard at least once, was released in 1961 by soul singer Ben E.

King.

It’s also famous for having been covered by many well-known artists, including John Lennon.

If you read the lyrics closely, you can take it as a love song, but thanks in part to the influence of the classic 1986 film Stand by Me, it has continued to be loved across generations as a song celebrating wonderful friendship.

If you know the song but have never seen the movie, especially if you’re younger, I highly recommend checking the film out too!

That’s What Friends Are ForDionne Warwick

That’s What Friends Are For (Official Video)

This song by the world-renowned singer Dionne Warwick became such a massive hit that it was covered as a charity single for the American Foundation for AIDS Research.

Its lovingly tender vocals are captivating and will never leave you once you’ve heard them.

I will be thereThe Jackson 5

Jackson 5-I’ll Be There

For high schoolers who like slightly older songs, I recommend I Will Be There.

The Jackson 5 is the group Michael Jackson belonged to.

Well, rather than just a group, they were brothers performing together—so all the members were family.

I Will Be There is memorable for its heartwarming, chest-tightening melody.

If you regularly listen to Western music, I think you’ve probably heard it.

It’s a classic that has been covered by many artists.

My FriendsRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – My Friends [Official Music Video]

The world-famous rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers—many high school students probably know them.

Their musical style is extremely broad, and they release songs across various genres, but My Friends is a relatively calm piece among them.

While the melody is gentle, it still hides a cool edge, making it a wonderful track.

It hasn’t won any particular awards, but it’s highly regarded by fans.

Be sure to check it out!

1979The Smashing Pumpkins

The Smashing Pumpkins – 1979 (Official Music Video)

Although it was released in 1995 and is a bit old, its pop, catchy melody is still enjoyed by many people today.

Its medium tempo and breezy vocals are appealing, making it a very stylish track you’ll want to play at events like school festivals.