[Middle School Students] Popular Western Music Ranking [By Generation]

EspressoSabrina Carpenter15rank/position

Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso

Its addictive sound, which skillfully blends pop and funk, is captivating.

This work by American artist Sabrina Carpenter, who likens her own charm to “espresso,” drew attention as the lead track from the album Short n’ Sweet, released in April 2024.

With energetic beats and playful lyrics, the song portrays women’s confidence and allure in a positive light.

Its lyrics, shining with self-assurance and a sense of humor, went viral on social media platforms like TikTok and became a major hit, reaching No.

3 on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100.

Used for entrance scenes at sports days or athletic festivals, it can be expected to boost participants’ motivation.

Its powerful beat and positive message make it a perfect track to elevate the event’s atmosphere.

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson16rank/position

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Characterized by energetic, danceable beats, this work captivated audiences around the world with its confident lyrics and catchy melody.

The track’s urban funk sound, influenced by 1980s Minneapolis funk, is the result of a brilliant collaboration between Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars.

Released in November 2014, it spent 14 consecutive weeks at number one on the U.

S.

charts, and later won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.

It’s a song I highly recommend to anyone starting a new chapter in life, as it instills confidence and courage.

All About That BassMeghan Trainor17rank/position

Meghan Trainor – All About That Bass (Official Video)

“All About That Bass” is a number by American singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor, featuring a cheerful, Hawaiian-tinged rhythm that feels pleasant.

The lyrics are positive, encouraging women who worry about their body shape to embrace themselves just as they are.

The prominent bass tone throughout the track seems to add a sense of gravitas and gives the song a feeling of reassurance.

For a school sports day, it’s recommended for an individual event called “Ketsu-atsu Measurement,” a race where participants pop a balloon placed on a chair at a checkpoint by sitting on it, and those who pop it first sprint to the finish.

I Will Always Love YouWhitney Houston18rank/position

Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You (Official 4K Video)

Depicting the tumultuous scenes of love, “I Will Always Love You” was released by diva Whitney Houston in 1992 and is loved around the world.

Originally written by country singer Dolly Parton, the song was covered by Whitney as part of the soundtrack for the film The Bodyguard.

Her powerful vocals and the dramatic arrangement continue to captivate countless listeners.

Although the theme is the painful decision to part ways, it’s a ballad that conveys profound love.

It’s a timeless classic that brings courage and inspiration to middle schoolers pursuing their hopes and dreams for the future.

YummyJustin Bieber19rank/position

Justin Bieber – Yummy (Official Video)

Justin Bieber is a world-famous idol singer, and Yummy is one of his signature songs.

Up until its release, Bieber had a very strong idol image, but after this song came out, he started shifting toward a more artist-focused direction.

By the way, the “Yummy” in this song doesn’t mean delicious—it’s used with a sexy, erotic nuance.

With its catchy, upbeat melody, it’s a perfect track for events!

NumbLinkin Park20rank/position

Numb (Official Music Video) [4K UPGRADE] – Linkin Park

Formed in 1996, the American alternative rock band Linkin Park is a perfect choice for a Western rock band to start listening to from middle school.

Their songs feature choruses that genuinely soar, verses brimming with a sense that something’s about to happen, heavily distorted guitars, and emotional vocals—every element is just incredibly cool.

Their track “Numb” exemplifies this, and I believe it’s a song that can open a musical door you’ve never opened before.

ButterBTS21rank/position

BTS (방탄소년단) ‘Butter’ Official MV

An upbeat track that blends edgier pop with dance sounds—perfect for summertime hype.

Delivered entirely in English by the global Korean group BTS in May 2021, it features a lively beat inspired by 1980s and 1990s disco music.

With its dynamic melody and the sharp dance performance of the seven members, it topped the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100 chart for eight consecutive weeks.

It’s a great choice for opening ceremonies at school sports festivals, athletic events, or dance performances, and it also creates a strong sense of unity as background music.

An undeniable crowd-pleaser for sports settings and any scene where you want to get a big group pumped up.