A wonderful classic

Dance music in Western pop recommended for junior high school students

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

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)

Don’t Go YetCamila Cabello

Camila Cabello – Don’t Go Yet (Official Video)

Don't Go YetCamila Cabello

Camila Cabello is a U.

S.

-born female singer-songwriter with Cuban roots.

Although she grew up in the United States, her songs often incorporate Latin flavors.

Among them, the track Don’t Go Yet especially exudes a Latin vibe.

It has an upbeat groove that’s distinct from reggaeton or reggae, making it a perfect fit for parties and leisure by the sea or pool.

If you’re a middle schooler who enjoys lively, high-energy songs, be sure to check it out!

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CradlesSub Urban

Sub Urban – Cradles [Official Music Video]

CradlesSub Urban

Sub Urban is known as a prime example of an artist who gained worldwide popularity through TikTok.

In Japan, many people might not recognize his name, but the moment you hear his songs, you’ll go, “Oh, that one!” His track Cradles is one of his signature works.

It has a very dark vibe and helped spark the current dark-pop boom.

Although it was released in 2019, it’s still widely used on TikTok, so it’s recommended even for middle school students.

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Don’t Be ShyTiësto & Karol G

Tiësto & Karol G – Don’t Be Shy (Official Music Video)

Don't Be ShyTiësto & Karol G

Tiesto, a music producer who has been churning out hit songs since 2022, scored an especially big success with “Don’t Be Shy,” his collaboration with Colombia’s Karol G.

The charm of this track lies above all in its distinctive sound and stylish structure.

It’s not the kind of dance music that sends you into a frenzy, but it has a quirky, catchy groove, making it a great recommendation even for middle schoolers!

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Dance music in Western languages recommended for junior high school students (11–20)

Permission to DanceBTS

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘Permission to Dance’ Official MV

Permission to DanceBTS

It’s a song from BTS that fills you with positivity.

Released in July 2021, it carries a message of expressing freedom through dance.

Co-created with Ed Sheeran and others, the track portrays a post-pandemic world and is said to include an homage to everyday heroes.

The “Permission to Dance Challenge” was also held on YouTube, providing an opportunity to deepen connections with fans.

With its bright, upbeat lyrics and melody, it’s perfect when you want a boost of energy or a change of pace.

Many people have probably heard it, and as dance music it’s enjoyable for everyone from children to adults.

Middle schoolers, why not listen to this song and have fun dancing to it?

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Bad HabitsEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Bad Habits [Official Video]

Bad HabitsEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran, a singer-songwriter from the UK who gained worldwide popularity with his 2017 release “Shape of You,” is also hugely popular in Japan.

“Bad Habits” is one of his famous songs, released in 2021.

While keeping to his signature catchy pop style, it features a distinctive melody that incorporates trendy synth-pop.

It has an upbeat feel with a stylish vibe, so junior high school students might consider using it as background music on a date.

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Made You LookMeghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor – Made You Look (Official Music Video)

Made You LookMeghan Trainor

It’s a song packed with positive messages.

Taken from Meghan Trainor’s fifth album, “Takin’ It Back,” it centers on confidence and self-love.

Set to a lively doo-wop rhythm, it declares that you can be attractive even without wearing expensive brands.

Released in October 2022, it climbed high on the charts in many countries.

The music video, made in collaboration with the popular game Candy Crush Saga, also generated buzz.

With its pop sensibilities and cute vibe, it’s a tune that makes you want to dance.

It’s a perfect song for junior high school students who want to value their individuality.

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Light SwitchCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth – Light Switch [Official Music Video]

Light SwitchCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth is a singer-songwriter who has gained popularity for his wide-ranging musicality.

He rose to global fame with the theme song for the film Furious 7, See You Again ft.

Charlie Puth.

His track Light Switch, released in January 2022, drew attention for its catchy sound.

It isn’t exactly an orthodox song; by incorporating synth-pop—a genre that trended in the 1980s—it blends an upbeat, fresh feel with a hint of nostalgia.

If you’re a middle school student who enjoys retro-sounding tracks, be sure to give it a listen.

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