[High School Students] Popular Western Music Rankings [By Generation]

Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)Shakira15rank/position

Shakira – Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) (The Official 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Song)

Unfolding with dynamic energy, this pop number overflows with African spirit atop a powerful, groovy rhythm.

The celebratory sound woven by Colombia’s Shakira and South African band Freshlyground is sure to be the ultimate BGM to fire up any sports day.

Released in May 2010, the track gained worldwide popularity as the official song of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, selling over 15 million copies globally.

It topped the charts in 15 countries and has amassed over 4 billion views on YouTube.

Blending a feverish, danceable beat with the spirit of football, this song is a perfect match for sporting events—powerfully propelling athletes toward victory and uniting the entire venue in a shared sense of excitement.

Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen16rank/position

Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe

A track released as a single in 2011 by Canadian singer-songwriter Carly Rae Jepsen.

It’s a fresh, innocent teen-pop track that incorporates elements of dance and club music.

The music video features Canadian model Holden Nowell.

abcdefuGAYLE17rank/position

GAYLE – abcdefu (Official Music Video)

Many people may find themselves empathizing with GAYLE’s song, which powerfully expresses destructive anger and pain.

This track, which sings about overcoming heartbreak and reclaiming oneself, went viral on TikTok soon after its release in August 2021.

It reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

iTunes chart and achieved the remarkable feat of ranking No.

3 on the Billboard chart.

It’s recommended not only for those freshly heartbroken, but also for anyone struggling to recover after losing something important.

It might be a good idea to blast it with friends and let all your feelings out.

Stand by MeBen E. King18rank/position

Stand By Me

Ben E.

King’s classic song “Stand by Me.” It’s such a famous track that even high school students have probably heard it at least once.

Released in 1961, “Stand by Me” has been loved for decades and has been covered by many artists up to the present day.

While it is also a love song, it became widely known as a work that portrays youth and friendship because it was used in the coming-of-age film of the same name.

The soulful vocals evoke a sense of nostalgia and bring back fond memories.

SugarMaroon 519rank/position

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)

This is a song with a sweet, catchy melody and lyrics.

Adam Levine’s soaring high vocals are striking, and you’ll find yourself wanting to move.

Released in January 2015, the track is included on Maroon 5’s fifth album, V.

It peaked at No.

2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and became a hit worldwide.

The music video shows the band making surprise appearances at weddings, bringing a sense of joy to everyone who watches.

You’ll hear this song everywhere—from school hallways to cafes.

It’s perfect for mornings before you head out or anytime you want a boost.

Thinking Out LoudEd Sheeran20rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud (Official Music Video)

As a singer-songwriter highly regarded for writing beautiful, heartfelt lyrics, this is one of Ed Sheeran’s finest gems.

Wonderfully romantic in tone, it’s known for having a large female fan base.

Filled with hopes and expectations for the future, this song is sure to lift everyone’s spirits.

What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction21rank/position

One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful (Official Video)

An encouragement song full of kindness and hope, dedicated to women who struggle with self-confidence.

The popular British group One Direction delivers the importance of loving yourself just as you are through a captivating melody and memorable lyrics.

Its refreshing sound, blending power pop and pop rock, pairs perfectly with the bright, uplifting message.

Released in September 2011 as the lead single from their debut album Up All Night, the track achieved worldwide success.

It has been featured in numerous TV shows and commercials, and won the Brit Award for British Single in 2012.

It’s a perfect song to bring energy and courage as background music for school festivals and cultural events.