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

I Don’t CareEd Sheeran & Justin Bieber I Don’t Care

Ed Sheeran & Justin Bieber – I Don’t Care [Official Music Video]

It’s a collaboration with some pretty big names—Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber—and the song itself has an approachable, mid-tempo feel.

The lyrics offer a glimpse into the inner thoughts of these celebrities, and I think you’ll understand the meaning behind the title “I Don’t Care” as you unpack the words.

It’s definitely a track I’d love to see translated into Japanese.

Love YourselfJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber – Love Yourself (PURPOSE : The Movement)

If you’re not familiar with Western music and don’t know where to start, I recommend Justin Bieber.

He’s often in the spotlight and has even appeared in Japanese TV commercials.

His song “Love Yourself” plays like a reflective scene addressed to an ex-girlfriend.

That said, it’s full of disses toward the ex, like “I won’t, but you still call me, right?” and “I don’t want to go back anymore” (lol).

The lyrics seem to be based on his real experiences.

We Are Never Ever Getting Back TogetherTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together

Taylor Swift’s signature song “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” It’s a 2012 track, but it’s still a popular song you hear all the time.

For example, it would be incredibly cool to sing it as an acoustic guitar solo performance or at karaoke.

In fact, the guitar chords are beginner-friendly, making it a perfect first step into playing and singing Western pop songs.

FadedAlan Walker

Fade

Alan Walker is a music producer who is active mainly in Norway.

He grew up familiar with programming and graphic design, and in 2012 he uploaded a self-composed track to YouTube through the UK record label NoCopyrightSounds, which brought him worldwide popularity.

The video has racked up a staggering 270 million views! What’s more, Alan Walker was only 16 at the time.

If you’re a junior high school student, you’re pretty much the same generation—so why not check him out?

What Am IWhy Don’t We

Why Don’t We “What Am I” (with Japanese subtitles)

The song “What Am I,” which Ed Sheeran wrote for the idol-type boy band Why Don’t We in Japan’s terms, features wonderfully romantic, dreamy lyrics.

The title itself also has a depth that makes you curious about its meaning at first glance.

Be sure to enjoy it while listening to the lyrics!

Waiting For LoveAvicii

Avicii – Waiting For Love

A feel-good, danceable track with Avicii’s signature four-on-the-floor beat from the Swedish musician.

It may carry a dark atmosphere, but the warmth of the piano tone makes it quite accessible and familiar.

In the chorus verse, there’s a weeklong motif from Monday to Sunday—be sure to listen to or read the lyrics to grasp its meaning.

Don’t Start NowDua Lipa

Japanese Translation: Dua Lipa “Don’t Start Now”

Dua Lipa is also famous as a model, but lately she’s been more active as an artist.

The turning point that marked her shift toward an artist-focused direction was “Don’t Start Now.” Despite its laid-back track, it somehow gets you grooving.

The melody proved popular, and it won Best Video Direction at the MTV Video Music Awards in 2929.

She’s also praised for her fashion sense, so this is a must-see for junior high school girls! (Note: The year “2929” appears to be a typo in the original text.

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