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

Good For YouSelena Gomez92rank/position

Selena Gomez – Good For You

A collaboration between American singer Selena Gomez and rapper ASAP Rocky.

Songwriter Julia Michaels, who has worked on tracks for artists like Fifth Harmony and Kelly Clarkson, was involved in its production.

It is sampled in CVRL’s 2016 track “Skin Tight.”

Treat You BetterShawn Mendes93rank/position

Shawn Mendes – Treat You Better

A track released as a single in 2016 by Canadian singer Shawn Mendes.

It reached the top 10 on charts around the world and was certified platinum in 15 countries.

The track of the same name by Emma Hoisters and Markus Cole was inspired by Shawn’s track.

FANCYTwice94rank/position

TWICE “FANCY” M/V

Many middle and high school students love K-pop idols.

K-pop is popular at sports days and athletic festivals too, so it’s perfect as background music.

“FANCY” is a hit by TWICE, one of the most popular K-pop idol groups.

Its fresh vibe makes it suitable for any scene and it’s sure to get everyone excited.

Of course, it’s also great for performing a dance to this song.

CloserThe Chainsmokers95rank/position

The Chainsmokers – Closer (Lyric) ft. Halsey

The Chainsmokers’ hit song “Closer,” released in 2016.

If you’ve even dabbled a little in Western pop music, you’ve probably heard it.

The track does a great job of highlighting Halsey’s wistful vocals.

It’s a song that conveys the feelings of both a man and a woman after a breakup.

As the song approaches the end, Halsey’s vocals grow increasingly powerful—be sure to pay attention.

It may not have much of a sports day vibe, but it’s guaranteed to lift your spirits!

Something Just Like ThisThe Chainsmokers & Coldplay96rank/position

The Chainsmokers & Coldplay – Something Just Like This (Official Lyric Video)

This song is perfect for a generation wondering how far they’re allowed to dream about love.

It masterfully fuses The Chainsmokers’ polished EDM sound with Coldplay’s warm, melodic touch.

Released in February 2017, it became a global hit, reaching No.

3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

If you’re a high school student, you’ve probably heard it somewhere as background music during breaks or after school.

Its message—“Even if you’re not a superhero, being your true self is enough”—is sure to resonate with anyone in the midst of their youth.

It’s also great to listen to while chatting with friends.

StarboyThe Weeknd ft. Daft Punk97rank/position

The Weeknd – Starboy ft. Daft Punk (Official Video) ft. Daft Punk

A collaboration between The Weeknd and Daft Punk.

Inspired by The Weeknd’s 2016 track “Out Here.” Released as a single in 2016, it reached No.

1 on charts around the world.

It’s an electropop track with R&B elements that sings about the luxurious lifestyle of celebrities.

DANCE MONKEYTones and I98rank/position

TONES AND I – DANCE MONKEY (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Tones and I is an Australian female singer-songwriter who has gained popularity for her distinctive musical style.

She has a highly unique vocal quality, and many people find that once they hear her voice, it sticks in their heads.

The work that propelled her to global fame is “DANCE MONKEY.” It’s a surreal track wrapped in a distinctive atmosphere, yet it’s surprisingly easy to get into the groove as you listen.

Be sure to check it out.