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

It’s My LifeBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

It’s a single included on the seventh album by the American rock band Bon Jovi.

It was released in 2000, and at the end of the same year it was used in a Japanese commercial for NEC, drawing in fans.

It became an explosive hit worldwide.

Bad DayDaniel Powter

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]

When it comes to classic tear-jerking Western songs, this track by Daniel Powter is the standard.

When I’m going through something tough or sad, listening to this song somehow lifts my spirits.

Since youth is full of worries, it’s a song I’d love for young people to listen to during those times.

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

It’s a bit from the older generation, but it’s still a dance number heard in many settings today.

The chorus features a phrase everyone has heard, making it familiar across generations.

Since most of the lyrics are simple words to pronounce, it’s easy to use as a learning material, and with a bit of practice, even junior high school students who have just started learning English can sing it right away.

shape of youEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

If you asked an elementary school child what Western pop song they like and they named this one, I’d think that’s really cool.

It’s “Shape of You,” a signature hit by the globally popular singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran.

Precisely because the arrangement is simple with few instruments, the coolness of the vocals really stands out.

True to the EDM-influenced Western pop of the 2010s, the mature lyrics are part of its appeal.

The melody is excellent, and it’s a song you can lightly sway to and enjoy.

I think it’s a great choice to play as a quintessential example of cool music.

I Have NothingGlee

GLEE – I Have Nothing (Full Performance) (Official Music Video) HD

It’s a song that Whitney Houston sang in the movie The Bodyguard, but GLEE’s male vocalist gives it a different vibe.

It’s performed in an even higher key than the original.

The overwhelming vocal power is truly moving.

Hold OnGood Charlotte

Good Charlotte – Hold On (Official Video)

A track with an anti-suicide message.

It was released as a single in 2003 by the American rock band Good Charlotte.

The music video features people who have actually lost family members to suicide.

The track was a hit in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Germany.

So YesterdayHilary Duff

Hilary Duff – So Yesterday

While it can be classified as a breakup song, it’s a track that makes you feel positive and ready to move forward—not just in love, but in life as well.

Watching the protagonist in the music video will lift your spirits and give you that gentle push to take another step.