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 styles recommended for junior high school students (31–40)

Come & Get ItSelena Gomez

Selena Gomez – Come & Get It

Come & Get ItSelena Gomez

A track released as a digital download in 2013 by American singer Selena Gomez.

It was performed live for the first time at the 2013 M Television Movie Awards.

The music video was inspired by Indian cinema, Bollywood.

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BAILAR CONTIGOBlack Eyed Peas, Daddy Yankee

Black Eyed Peas, Daddy Yankee – BAILAR CONTIGO (Official Music Video)

BAILAR CONTIGOBlack Eyed Peas, Daddy Yankee

The Black Eyed Peas are a music group that has continued to drop numerous big tunes while collaborating with artists around the world.

Since they’re still active on the front lines, many middle schoolers may already know them.

This track, “BAILAR CONTIGO,” is their collaboration with Daddy Yankee, a leading figure in the reggaeton scene.

Its appeal lies in a lively sound that blends hip-hop and reggaeton.

Be sure to check it out.

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MotherMeghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor – Mother (Official Music Video)

MotherMeghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor is a female singer-songwriter who has gained popularity for her distinctive style that adapts doo-wop—a genre that was trendy in the 1950s—to modern musical sensibilities.

Her songs are extremely popular on TikTok as well, so many of you may already know her.

Among her tracks, the one I especially recommend is “Mother.” Its nostalgic melody—combining catchy rhythm and adorable charm—will definitely get stuck in your head.

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Oh My GodAdele

Adele – Oh My God (Official Video)

Oh My GodAdele

Adele, a female singer-songwriter who has remained at the top of the UK scene since the 2010s, continues to enjoy huge popularity.

Because she has released hit songs for so many years, even junior high school students are likely familiar with her.

Oh My God is a track she released in 2022.

When you think of Adele, you probably picture moving ballads.

However, this song pleasantly defies that image, delivering an upbeat track.

With a cool, blues-tinged vibe and a lively groove, it’s a must-listen for junior high school students who love cool songs!

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7/11Beyoncé

Beyoncé – 7/11

7/11Beyoncé

An uptempo beat track released as a single in 2014 by the American singer Beyoncé.

It reached No.

1 on the charts in the United States and Belgium.

The music video was shot with a handcrafted visual style.

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Dance music in Western songs recommended for junior high school students (41–50)

Hot NiggaBobby Shmurda

Bobby Shmurda – Hot N*gga (Official Music Video)

Hot NiggaBobby Shmurda

The debut single released in 2014 by American hip-hop artist Bobby Shmurda.

The music video became hugely popular among users of the social media app Vine as the “Shmoney Dance” meme.

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Marvin GayeCharlie Puth ft. Meghan Trainor

Charlie Puth – Marvin Gaye ft. Meghan Trainor [Official Video]

Marvin GayeCharlie Puth ft. Meghan Trainor

A soulful pop track characterized by a hip-hop tone.

It’s the debut single by American singer Charlie Puth, released in 2015.

The song became a worldwide hit and received platinum certifications in many countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

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