Moving Western songs recommended for junior high school students: world classics and popular hits

Sweet Child O’ MineGuns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses – Sweet Child O’ Mine (Official Music Video)

Like Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses is also a very popular rock band among Japanese junior high and high school students.

These two enjoy a level of support in Japan that would be unthinkable in other countries.

They’re what you might call standard rock songs, but that’s probably exactly what makes them perfect for middle schoolers.

ViennaBilly Joel

Vienna-Billy Joel (Lyrics in Description)

It’s a beautiful song featuring Billy Joel’s supple, far-reaching vocals and a wistful, emotional melody.

The accordion that comes in partway through is great, too! I’d also highly recommend the lyrics to middle school students—they’re the kind of words that can give you the courage to take on a challenge.

The Lazy SongBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – The Lazy Song (Official Music Video)

Bruno Mars is popular all over the world, so some middle schoolers might already know him.

Among his songs, this number is perfect for autumn.

His smooth, soaring vocals ring out over a relaxed beat, leaving you with an indescribably gentle feeling.

YellowColdplay

Coldplay – Yellow (Official Video)

Among the many Coldplay hit songs, this one is especially popular.

It’s a love song that says, “I was able to find you and reach you because you shine.” Describing shining colors with the word “Yellow” really shows the artist’s touch.

Middle school students, cherish your individuality and nurture your own color!

All of the StarsEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – All Of The Stars [Official Music Video]

This song, created as the ending theme for the film “The Fault in Our Stars,” is a love ballad about longing for a distant lover.

With the autumn sky so high, it’s only natural to feel the distance between you and the one far away.

Both the performance and the vocals make it an achingly poignant track.

Wake me up when September endsGreen Day

Green Day – Wake Me Up When September Ends [Official Music Video] [4K Upgrade]

The band Green Day, who sing this song, are from the United States, and the lyrics include the word “September.” In America, September marks the start of a new school year, and the music video for this song somehow evokes memories of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

There are various ways to interpret it, but the song’s content is about a boy’s feelings for his deceased father.

Falling ShortLåpsley

Låpsley – Falling Short (Official Audio)

It’s a song that stands out for its minimal sounds and an irresistibly captivating voice you won’t forget after a single listen.

As you enter junior high and your circle of friends grows, you’ll likely encounter new music as well.

This song is exactly the kind of encounter that feels right for that moment.

Experiences like these can have a lasting impact afterward.