2025: Classic Western Songs Recommended for Middle School Students (English Songs)

DiamondsSam Smith

Sam Smith – Diamonds (Official Music Video)

Sam Smith, a singer-songwriter from the UK who rose to international fame with the 2015 release of Stay With Me, is an artist who has publicly come out as gay.

About two to three years after their breakout, they began performing in a way that fully highlighted that image.

In Diamonds as well, they showcase feminine-style dancing.

The melody is very upbeat, so middle school students should definitely check it out.

Cure For MeAURORA

AURORA – Cure For Me

This is a powerful electropop number by Norwegian singer-songwriter Aurora Aksnes, released in July 2021 with “A Potion for Love” on the B-side.

It’s a single cut from the album “The Gods We Can Touch,” which reached No.

1 in her home country of Norway and entered the top 10 in the UK.

The song delivers a strong message centered on self-acceptance and resisting external pressure to change, resonating especially with people—such as those in the LGBTQ+ community—who often face social prejudice and stigma.

It showcases Aurora’s humanity as she expresses the value of “being yourself” through music.

It’s a track that can inspire teenagers to reflect on themselves and consider their relationships with those around them.

Through music, it teaches the importance of understanding and accepting oneself.

JadedAerosmith

Aerosmith – Jaded

Have you ever listened to Aerosmith’s “Jaded”? Although it was released in 2001, this song, rooted in hard rock, hasn’t lost any of its appeal.

It kicks off with a powerful guitar riff, and the world woven by Steven Tyler’s distinctive vocals is something even today’s middle schoolers can fully enjoy.

The track has won honors at the Billboard Music Awards, and if you play it while driving, you’ll feel a refreshing sense of freedom, like you’re flying down the highway.

Why not immerse yourself in its musical world and blow off some steam within its rich rhythms?

Banga! Banga!Austin Mahone

Austin Mahone – Banga! Banga!

This 2013 release by Austin Mahone—who’s popular in Japan as well—features upbeat, rhythmic lyrics.

At the time, Austin’s hairstyle was natural, giving him a friendly, boy-next-door vibe.

In the music video, he shows off his strong dancing skills, and his casual fashion is a point guys should definitely take note of.

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.

…Baby One More TimeBritney Spears

Britney Spears – …Baby One More Time (Official Video)

A track sung from the perspective of a young girl who has broken up with her boyfriend.

Released by Britney Spears in 1998, it’s a catchy pop track with a smooth sound.

It reached No.

1 on charts around the world and was sampled in 3LAU’s 2013 track “Silver.”

Please MeCardi B & Bruno Mars

Cardi B & Bruno Mars – Please Me (Official Audio)

This is a collaboration between Cardi B, a musician who also shines as a TV host, and Bruno Mars, a singer from Hawaii.

It was released as a single in 2019.

It’s recommended for middle schoolers who are looking for a more mature-sounding track.

The lyrics can be a bit explicit and might be intense for some, but since it’s a collaboration between globally recognized artists, it’s perfect as an introduction to Western pop music.