Dance music in Western pop recommended for junior high school students
When you think of dance music, many people probably imagine upbeat, high-energy tracks.
While that kind of dance music is certainly mainstream, since the 2020s, songs with a stylish tone have also been gaining popularity.
This time, we’ve selected dance tracks that we can recommend especially to lively middle school students.
In addition to up-tempo songs, we’ll also feature downbeat, stylish pieces—so please sit back, relax, and enjoy to the end!
Dance music in Western pop recommended for middle school students (1–10)
STAYThe Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber
The Kid LAROI, an artist who enjoys immense popularity in Australia, has elements close to a rapper.
He’s highly skilled, and his sweet looks have also earned him strong support from women.
One of his collaborations with Justin Bieber is the track “STAY.” The Kid LAROI’s rough-edged rap and Justin Bieber’s smooth, sweet vocals are a perfect match.
With its upbeat structure, it’s a great recommendation as background music for junior high school students on their way to school!
Shape of YouEd Sheeran
Ed Sheeran’s song is an upbeat dance number themed around the beginning of a romance.
It portrays how a relationship deepens after a chance meeting at a club or bar.
Released in 2017, the track blends elements of pop, dancehall, and tropical house, and became a global smash hit.
It has surpassed two billion streams on Spotify and topped the charts in many countries.
It’s a must-have classic in dance music.
Still widely loved, this song is also recommended for middle school students.
Its rhythm-forward, catchy melody is perfect for those who enjoy dancing.
It’s a great pick for enjoying a party with friends or for lifting your mood.
APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars
This track is striking for its lively tone and the outstanding vocal chemistry between Rosé and Bruno Mars.
Released in October 2024, it made a big splash as the lead single from Rosé’s solo album “Rosie.” The playful lyrics, inspired by Korean games, carry a warm charm that gently wraps around memories and emotions.
Its nostalgic melody, blending pop and rock, feels as comforting as reuniting with an old friend.
It’s an approachable song, and the simple choreography for the chorus has been trending on social media.
Creating your own original moves and dancing along is fun, too.
It’s a perfect pick for good times, like a drive or a party with friends.
Build a B*tchBella Poarch
Music preferences vary from person to person.
Some middle schoolers might even like gothic songs, right? For those people, I recommend “Build a B*tch.” It’s a hit by Bella Poarch that gained worldwide popularity after blowing up on TikTok.
Its musical style is appealing—like a more stylish, gothic take on Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s sound.
If you’re a middle schooler looking for something dark yet cute, definitely give it a listen!
The MottoTiësto & Ava Max
Ava Max, a female singer-songwriter from the United States, has won popularity with her unique fashion sense and wide-ranging musicality.
Her collaboration with the trendsetting music producer Tiësto is the track The Motto.
It’s a standout song categorized under the stylish genre of deep house.
More than just deep house, it carries a darker atmosphere, so if you’re a middle school student who likes moody yet cool tracks, be sure to check it out.
WhateverKygo, Ava Max
It’s a lively, empowering track packed with a feel-good vibe.
Ava Max’s powerful vocals stand out as she sings about overcoming heartbreak, independence, and staying positive.
The collaboration with Kygo’s tropical house sound is a perfect match.
Released in January 2024, it reached number one on the Norwegian charts and is gaining attention in Japan as well.
It’s perfect for anyone dealing with worries or looking to regain confidence.
With an irresistible beat and Ava Max’s beautiful voice, it becomes an epic song.
Highly recommended even for junior high school students looking for a song that gives you energy.
IntentionsJustin Bieber
It’s a song in which Justin Bieber sings with heartfelt feelings for his loved one.
Released in February 2020, the track features a melodic sound and striking lyrics that celebrate the other person’s inner beauty.
Bieber’s gentle vocals and rapper Quavo’s feature are woven together in a perfectly balanced way.
Included on the album Changes, the song reached No.
5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and captured the hearts of many.
It’s top-tier as a dance track—a well-loved classic often played on the dance floor thanks to its feel-good melody.
It’s recommended for times when you want to express gratitude to someone you love or when you want to cherish yourself.