Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists Among High School Students [2025]

Just Give Me A Reason ft. Nate RuessP!nk85rank/position

P!nk – Just Give Me A Reason ft. Nate Ruess

This is a moving duet song whose harmonies by P!nk and Nate Ruess resonate deeply.

Centered on the theme of reaffirming love, the track is included on the 2012 album “The Truth About Love.” It became a worldwide hit, topping the Billboard charts.

The song tells the story of a couple overcoming obstacles in their love—misunderstandings and lack of communication—to repair their relationship, striking a chord with many listeners.

It’s a perfect pick for high school students struggling with love.

When you’re uncertain about your relationship with someone special, listening to this will surely give you courage.

It’s also great to listen to with friends and talk about love together.

HappyPharrell Williams86rank/position

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Video)

This song by American artist Pharrell Williams features a refreshing rhythm that blends elements of neo-soul and funk, expressing the joy of life and a positive outlook.

Its lyrics convey the importance of staying happy even in the most challenging situations, empowering every listener.

Released in November 2013, it was created for the soundtrack of the animated film Despicable Me 2 and was later included on the album G I R L.

Its appeal is evident from its achievement of holding the No.

1 spot on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100 for 10 consecutive weeks.

It’s perfect as background music for event entries or dance performances at school sports days, with the power to unite all participants.

APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars87rank/position

ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – APT. (Official Music Video)

This track stands out with a pop-rock sound full of wave-riding rhythm and powerful energy.

It’s a collaboration between Rosé, the main vocalist of Korea’s BLACKPINK, and 15-time Grammy winner Bruno Mars.

Released in October 2024, it topped the charts in more than 25 countries worldwide.

Inspired by a drinking game popular among young people, it deftly weaves together the exhilaration of a party and the sweetness of romance.

The wistful vocals and edgy guitar work blend seamlessly, resulting in a polished, sophisticated song.

It’s perfect for boosting team motivation at school sports festivals or anytime you want to hype up the crowd with powerful chants.

HumanRag’n’Bone Man88rank/position

Rag’n’Bone Man – Human (Official Video)

He’s a British soul singer who became very famous in 2016 with this song.

By the way, why are overseas soul singers always so big? Haha.

In any case, his distinctive voice is highly addictive.

Never Gonna Give You URick Astley89rank/position

Rick Astley – Never Gonna Give You Up (Official Video) (4K Remaster)

Released in 1987, Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” was a massive hit at the time.

Since the song is frequently used across various media, many people have likely heard it.

For younger listeners, you might also know it because the music video is used in a TikTok filter.

It’s a track with a catchy melody delivered in an ‘80s sound that now feels nostalgic.

It’s a fun song that can be enjoyed by both adults and children!

Work (Explicit) ft. DrakeRihanna90rank/position

Rihanna – Work (Explicit) ft. Drake

This song is packed with Rihanna’s charm.

It features an urban sound that fuses dancehall and reggae, and its catchy finish leaves the repeated “Work” in your head.

The lyrics, which depict a complex relationship between a man and a woman, are said to reflect Rihanna’s cultural background.

Upon its release in January 2016, it spent nine consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard charts, and her collaboration with Drake also became a hot topic.

It’s a great track to play while chatting with friends at a café—its breezy rhythm naturally lifts your spirits.

Stay With MeSam Smith91rank/position

Sam Smith – Stay With Me (Official Music Video)

A ballad that pleads earnestly for love, its gospel-tinged melody strikes a chord.

You can feel the protagonist’s loneliness after a one-night encounter.

Included on the 2014 debut album In the Lonely Hour, it topped the UK charts and reached No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US, becoming a global hit.

Sam Smith’s delicate vocals are captivating, and it’s a song that resonates when you’re feeling heartbroken or lonely.

It might be fun to sing along with friends, too.

Why not take this opportunity to immerse yourself in Sam Smith’s world?