Recommended Western music for junior high school students — from popular classics to the latest hits

The Lazy SongBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – The Lazy Song (Official Music Video)

“I don’t want to do anything today!” There’s a perfect song for that lazy mood by American artist Bruno Mars.

It humorously portrays a slothful day of ignoring calls and just lazing around in bed—something many listeners can relate to.

Set to a laid-back, reggae-inspired groove, the bold celebration of “doing nothing” alone can make you feel lighter just by listening.

Released in February 2011 from his debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, the track topped the charts in the UK.

If you’re worn out from schoolwork or club activities, it might be nice to put this song on and plan a day to just relax and do absolutely nothing.

High HopesPanic! At The Disco

Panic! At The Disco – High Hopes (Official Video)

An irresistibly cheerful anthem that gives you a nudge and says, “I can do it!” This song is by the American rock band Panic! At The Disco.

The powerful horn section and Brendon Urie’s soaring vocals alone are enough to fill you with energy.

The track centers on his childhood dreams and sings about the importance of continuing to set ambitious goals, even when things don’t go well.

Featured on the album Pray for the Wicked, it became a massive hit, spending 65 weeks at No.

1 on Billboard’s Hot Rock Songs chart.

It was also used in a Honda commercial, so many people may find it familiar.

Listen to it when you’re working toward your dreams and goals, and you’ll feel inspired to believe that “nothing is impossible!”

Try EverythingShakira

Shakira – Try Everything (Official Video)

This is a song that gives you a powerful push on the back, saying, “It’s okay to fail over and over—just try again!” Sung by the world-famous star from Colombia, Shakira, the track was written as the theme song for the Disney film Zootopia.

The protagonist’s strong will to keep taking on new challenges without giving up—even after falling down and getting hurt—is vividly portrayed over a bright, pop melody.

The song became a beloved classic worldwide, earning a nomination for Best Song Written for Visual Media at the 59th Grammy Awards.

It’s perfect for when you hit a wall in your studies or club activities, or when you want to fire yourself up to start something new.

It’s sure to fill you with positive courage and make you think, “I can do it!”

HappyPharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Video)

Released in 2014, this funky, pop-infused masterpiece by Pharrell Williams became a global smash hit.

Beyond the brilliance of the song itself, its music video is indispensable to the story.

Billed as the world’s first 24-hour music video, the groundbreaking visual project drew major attention, and soon after, fan-made tribute videos of people dancing to the track popped up worldwide, further propelling its success.

It’s a hit that perfectly embodies the internet era.

By the way, you should also know that Pharrell Williams is first and foremost a renowned music producer who had already achieved global recognition since the 1990s through his work with groups like The Neptunes and N.

E.

R.

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This Is MeThe Greatest Showman Cast

The Greatest Showman Cast – This Is Me (Official Audio)

It’s a powerful anthem that teaches us the importance of taking pride in our true selves.

This moving song is performed by The Greatest Showman Cast, featuring Hugh Jackman from Australia.

With its gospel-style chorus, it celebrates the beauty of not fearing your differences and turning them into your shining strength.

Included on the film’s album, The Greatest Showman: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, it was used in the figure skating exhibition at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, bringing an emotional close to the event.

When you’ve lost confidence by comparing yourself to others, listening to this song will help you affirm your unique individuality with strength.

It’s a special track that gives you the courage to take that first step.

Uptown FunkMark Ronson

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Mark Ronson is a singer-songwriter from England who is also active as a music producer.

His 2014 single Uptown Funk reached number one on the UK Singles Chart.

CAN’T STOP THE FEELING!Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake – CAN’T STOP THE FEELING! (from DreamWorks Animation’s “TROLLS”) (Official Video)

Set to an irresistibly feel-good rhythm that makes you want to move, American artist Justin Timberlake delivers a positive message.

This uptempo track blends disco and soul-pop elements and was written for the soundtrack of the DreamWorks Animation film Trolls.

Released in May 2016, the song was co-produced with Max Martin and Shellback and became a massive hit, debuting at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Packed with the charm of Timberlake, who also voices a character in the film, this song is perfect for active scenes like sports day events and group performances.

Its bright, optimistic melody and universally relatable, joy-filled lyrics are sure to lift participants’ spirits.