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

Young BloodNoah Kahan

Noah Kahan – Young Blood

It’s a song where the acoustic guitar fits perfectly with the transparent, airy world of the vocals.

As we become adults, seeing something through takes a lot of courage, and there’s a constant anxiety that what we do might end up hurting someone.

When you’re in middle school or otherwise young, maybe there’s an energy that surpasses that anxiety—enough to invent or achieve something!

Gotta Be YouOne Direction

One Direction – Gotta Be You

It’s a One Direction number released in 2011.

In the music video, you can see the members looking fresh and still a bit innocent at the time.

It has a slow tempo and simple lyrics, making it easy enough to understand and likely helpful for junior high school English listening practice.

FirefliesOwl City

Owl City – Fireflies (Official Music Video)

If you’re a middle schooler who likes the Poppo Song, you know Owl City too, right? This track is becoming a new benchmark for pop songs, so it’s definitely not one to miss.

In those sensitive middle school years, you need pop with this level of sparkle.

Don’t Let Me DownThe Chainsmokers ft. Daya

The Chainsmokers – Don’t Let Me Down (Official Video) ft. Daya

Speaking of autumn, it’s a comfortable season, so many middle schoolers probably go out with friends.

This is the song I want you to listen to with your friends on those outings.

In the music video, the two members of The Chainsmokers are shown driving.

BraveSara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles – Brave (Official Video)

Speaking of Western songs that give you courage, how about this track by Sara Bareilles? Its powerful drumbeat and uplifting chorus will put you in a bright, refreshing mood.

I think it’s perfect as a cheer song for summer high school baseball.

The Little Things Give You AwayLinkin Park

The Little Things Give You Away – Linkin Park (Minutes To Midnight)

An emotional track inspired by Hurricane Katrina, which struck New Orleans.

It is included on the album Minutes To Midnight, released by the American rock band Linkin Park.

It is one of the few Linkin Park tracks that features a guitar solo.

I’m Already ThereLonestar

Im Already There – Lonestar | hearttshapedbox

A track that sings about being by someone’s side in spirit, even without a physical presence.

It was released in 2001 by the American country music band Lonestar.

The track became very popular after the September 11 attacks in the United States and has been covered by artists such as Westlife.