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

Bad DayDaniel Powter36rank/position

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]

Even on an unlucky day, this song’s memorable piano tone feels like a gentle companion.

It’s the classic that put Canadian singer-songwriter Daniel Powter on the global map, included on his album “Daniel Powter.” Centered on the theme of having a “bad day,” it portrays the kind of slump everyone experiences, while offering a warm message that says, “Hey, it happens.” The track was used repeatedly on the popular American audition show “American Idol,” and became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive weeks.

When your studies or club activities aren’t going well and you’re feeling down, give it a listen—you’ll likely think, “Well, I guess days like this happen,” and feel a little lighter.

It’s a magical, encouraging song that makes you want to try again tomorrow.

If We Ever Broke UpMae Stephens37rank/position

Mae Stephens – If We Ever Broke Up (Lyric Video)

In 2023, a track by rising UK singer-songwriter Mae Stephens, who took TikTok by storm, became a hot topic.

Characterized by a funky beat and a memorable melody, the song channels the influence of Lily Allen and Kate Nash while boasting a sound reminiscent of Dua Lipa.

Its lyrics, depicting the end of a romantic relationship, resonated with many listeners, amplified by Mae’s expressive and powerful vocals.

Released in February by EMI Records, the track peaked at No.

20 on the UK Singles Chart, entered charts worldwide, and sparked a major reaction.

Despacito ft. Daddy YankeeLuis Fonsi38rank/position

Luis Fonsi – Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee

Luis Fonsi’s classic “Despacito ft.

Daddy Yankee,” with an unforgettable intro that begins with a rich, soulful flamenco guitar tone.

The song was released in 2017.

Around the same time, the music video was uploaded to YouTube, and in just eight months it surpassed approximately 3.

8 billion views.

It became explosively popular.

The addition of hip-hop elements to a reggae foundation gives it an especially catchy, danceable groove!

Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)Shakira39rank/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.

HappyPharrell Williams40rank/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.

Blinding LightsThe Weeknd41rank/position

The Weeknd – Blinding Lights (Official Video)

Amid a worldwide revival boom, the musical style of the 1980s is drawing fresh attention.

One of the songs that helped spark this trend is Blinding Lights.

It’s a track by the globally renowned singer-songwriter The Weeknd, and it became a massive hit in 2019.

While it strongly reflects elements of Black music, it’s primarily driven by synthwave, which makes the vocal line very smooth.

As long as you can stay on pitch, even a junior high school student could sing it pretty stylishly.

A Bar Song (Tipsy)Shaboozey42rank/position

Shaboozey – A Bar Song (Tipsy) [Official Visualizer]

Shaboozey, an American artist who has opened up new ground by skillfully fusing country and hip-hop, vividly captures the feelings of young people who, overwhelmed by their daily work, gather at bars with friends to escape reality.

The song became a major hit, spending 19 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 starting in April 2024.

Its crisp rhythm and funky sound make it perfect for entrance scenes and group performances at school sports festivals.

It boosts students’ morale and transforms the entire venue into a space brimming with unity.

In May 2024, it was also performed on Jimmy Fallon’s talk show, bringing its appeal to a global audience.

We can highly recommend it as an energetic, crowd-pleasing number that’s ideal for use at athletic events.