Western Music Wake-Up Song Rankings [2025]

The Final CountdownEurope57rank/position

Europe – The Final Countdown (Official Video)

Covered by numerous artists, many of you have probably heard the intro phrase somewhere before.

This song, released in 1986 by a Swedish HR/HM band, has a spacey vibe—like a spaceship taking off—that actually pairs surprisingly well with waking up.

Livin’ On A PlayerBon Jovi58rank/position

Bon Jovi – Livin’ On A Prayer

It’s a massive hit by Bon Jovi, the iconic American hard rock band.

This classic packs the upbeat, all-American energy and the unique coolness that only Bon Jovi can deliver.

I especially recommend it to middle schoolers who want to wake up in style with some rock from the morning.

Stay With MeSam Smith59rank/position

Sam Smith – Stay With Me (Official Music Video)

A supreme singing voice born in the UK.

A signature song by Sam Smith, who has won the world’s top honor, the Grammy Award.

The music video also opens with early-morning scenes, and the relaxed tempo makes it perfect for a gentle wake-up.

Of course his vocals are outstanding, but it’s also a track where the backing vocals deserve attention.

Into YouAriana Grande60rank/position

Ariana Grande – Into You (Official Video)

This wake-up song by Ariana Grande, an artist who enjoys immense support from young people, weaves high-quality music through her artistry and glamorous style.

Its stylish progression is approachable, elevating it into content that boosts your mood with a fresh vibe perfect for listening in September.

ButterBTS61rank/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.

Feel Good Inc.Gorillaz62rank/position

Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc. (Official Video)

It’s probably the most famous song by Gorillaz, the British alternative rock band.

The track is unique, blending elements like big bursts of laughter and rap into an interesting mix.

The overall tone is gentle, so it’s a great choice for a soft wake-up alarm.

A Sky Full Of StarsColdplay63rank/position

Coldplay – A Sky Full Of Stars (Official Video)

It’s a famous song by the world-renowned British rock band Coldplay.

This is a relatively recent track with a very beautiful and gentle tone.

Chris Martin’s falsetto throughout the song is very soothing, and I think it can give a middle school student the best, feel-good morning.