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

One TimeLuis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee ft. Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber – One Time (Official Music Video)

Justin Bieber is a Canadian musician who posted his singing on YouTube even before his debut.

One Time is his debut single, released in 2009, and it reached number 12 on the Canadian Hot 100.

BAILAR CONTIGOBlack Eyed Peas, Daddy Yankee

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

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.

Favorite SongToosii

Toosii – Favorite Song (Official Video)

Toosii is an American rapper who is also active as a singer.

His signature track “Favorite Song” went viral on TikTok and gained worldwide recognition.

Many middle schoolers may be familiar with this track, too.

The song’s appeal lies in its lyrics, which emphasize the message that it’s okay to be yourself with the person you like.

For sensitive student couples, there’s a lot they can relate to.

Teeth5 Seconds of Summer

5 Seconds of Summer – Teeth (Lyric Video)

This 5 Seconds of Summer track is defined by its exhilarating guitar sound and dynamic drums.

Since its release in August 2019, it has continued to captivate music fans around the world, including many middle schoolers.

The balance between its edgy sound and delicate vocals is outstanding, gripping listeners’ hearts and never letting go.

It’s also featured on the soundtrack for Season 3 of the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why.

The lyrics, which portray a complicated romantic relationship, express youthful yet profound emotions—you might find they resonate with your own feelings.

Blending the charm of older music with a modern twist, this song is a fresh recommendation for middle schoolers, and it’s perfect for a drive, too!

Walk This WayAerosmith

Aerosmith – Walk This Way (Live From The Office Depot Center, Sunrise, FL, April 3, 2004)

Aerosmith is a world-famous American rock band that has performed in Japan many times.

“Walk This Way” is a single released in 1975, and in Japan it has been used as a song in a SoftBank commercial.

Dangerous WomanAriana Grande

Ariana Grande – Dangerous Woman (Official Video)

Ariana Grande is an American singer-songwriter.

“Dangerous Woman” is a single released in March 2016, and it won the Choice Song: Female Artist category at the Teen Choice Awards that same year.

Hello KittyAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Hello Kitty (Official Video)

“Hello Kitty” is a track included on the studio album released in November 2013 by Avril Lavigne, a Canadian singer-songwriter who is widely known in Japan.

One of its notable features is the use of Japanese.