![Youth Anthems in Western Music: Ranking [2025]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/AbPED9bisSc/maxresdefault.webp)
Youth Anthems in Western Music: Ranking [2025]
We’ve put together a collection of youthful, vibrant pop songs—both old and new—that have been popular over the years.
We’re introducing them in a ranking format based on video view counts.
Check it out to see which songs are popular and use it as a reference.
The playlist is also being updated.
Youthful Western Music Songs Ranking [2025] (1–10)
Live While We’re YoungOne Direction1rank/position
One Direction’s classic song “Live While We’re Young,” released in 2012.
Younger people today might not know it, but it was a boy band that included the artist Harry Styles.
As the title suggests, the song portrays the vague anxieties of adolescence.
Many of you reading this article might also be feeling a lingering sense of unease.
In times like that, give this song a listen and lift your spirits.
Here’s to Never Growing UpAvril Lavigne2rank/position
It’s a refreshing anthem that celebrates eternal youth.
Avril Lavigne’s powerful vocals sweep away the pressure of growing up and proclaim the importance of fully enjoying the present.
Released in April 2013, the song was included on her self-titled album and reached the top 20 in multiple countries.
She reportedly drew inspiration from the young fans she met during tours around the world.
It’s a track that gives you the courage to look ahead without losing your true self during graduation season or at life’s crossroads.
Recommended not only for young people, but also for anyone who, even as an adult, refuses to forget the passion they hold in their heart.
FifteenTaylor Swift3rank/position
This is a song by American artist Taylor Swift that makes you feel as if you can hear the buzz of a high school classroom and the carefree chats with your best friend.
The work delicately captures the author’s first love, first heartbreak, and irreplaceable friendship from when she was 15, as if leafing back through a diary.
The anecdote that she teared up during recording speaks to the depth of emotion poured into it.
Included on the acclaimed 2008 album Fearless, it was also used in a project supporting teen charitable activities.
As we climb the steps toward adulthood, the sparkle and the pain we experience all become essential parts of the person we’ll be, this song gently teaches us.
It’s a treasure of a piece that will stay close to the heart of anyone living their youth right now.
Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen4rank/position
This song by Canadian artist Carly Rae Jepsen vividly portrays the impulsive rush of a single-minded teenage crush and the sweet, bittersweet flutter that comes with it—acting before thinking when you fall in love at first sight.
The restless mix of hope and anxiety after confessing your feelings is something many of us have experienced or dreamed of.
The track seems to suggest that the reckless boldness of youth can be exactly what opens the door to the future.
Released in September 2011 and featured on the acclaimed album “Kiss,” it was also used in Japan as the ending theme for “The! Sekai Gyoten News!” and achieved the remarkable feat of holding No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks.
If you’re feeling timid about love, why not listen to this song and let it give you courage?
What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction5rank/position
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.
SugarMaroon 56rank/position
Maroon 5 may have lots of breakup and cheating songs, but this one has completely become a wedding classic.
Adam Levine’s warm vocals, crystal-clear falsetto, and a sound that evokes the cheerfulness of spring make it perfect for spring weddings and receptions.
Blank SpaceTaylor Swift7rank/position
It’s said that one out of every four or five people around the world has listened to this song.
Since it’s included on the album that was reportedly the best-selling from 2014 to 2015, many of you have probably heard it.
It’s a track you should definitely keep in mind when listening to Western music.
It would also be a great choice for the first song to get everyone hyped.