Youth Anthems in Western Music: Ranking [2025]

Rap GodEminem43rank/position

Eminem – Rap God (Explicit)

Sparked by the show Freestyle Dungeon, hip-hop became a major craze among many young people.

High school students were no exception.

Many of you in high school may have gotten into hip-hop through MC battles, right? For high schoolers who are just starting to fall in love with hip-hop, I recommend the track “Rap God.” It’s a song by Eminem, who commands immense props, and it’s famous for its incredibly fast rap—so fast it even made it into the Guinness World Records.

It’s My LifeBon Jovi44rank/position

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

It’s a rock band anthem, a single from Bon Jovi’s seventh album, released in 2000, and it became an explosive hit worldwide.

The powerful vocals urging us to live life to the fullest and the deep bass rhythm give you a push forward.

When I Was Your ManBruno Mars45rank/position

Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man (Official Music Video)

“While I was her boyfriend, I wish I could have seen her happy face more often.” This song captures the bittersweet feelings of a man who thinks that way.

She has moved forward and found new happiness, but it’s sad when you consider the feelings of the man who couldn’t ask her to stay.

I think it’s a song anyone can relate to.

Every Breath You TakeThe Police46rank/position

The Police – Every Breath You Take (Official Music Video)

This is a masterpiece created in 1983 by The Police, a British rock band whose elegant melodies and wistful vocals stir the soul.

At first glance it may seem like a romantic love song, but in fact it is infused with obsession and a maddening longing for lost love.

Its melodic guitar riffs and memorable lines will leave a deep impression on listeners.

The song spent eight consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts and won Song of the Year at the 26th Grammy Awards.

It has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, and its timeless appeal remains undimmed.

It’s a perfect track for quietly listening alone on a calm night, or for sinking into cherished memories.

Hot N ColdKaty Perry47rank/position

Katy Perry – Hot N Cold (Official Music Video)

If you want to liven up a wedding or reception in a wildly fun way, how about this love song by Katy Perry? It comically and humorously portrays the groom’s fanciful hesitation right before saying his vows, and the youthful vibe of the music video is a must-see.

CreepRadiohead48rank/position

Radiohead – Creep

Among the hugely popular band Radiohead’s songs, this is one of the most beloved by fans.

During high school, as you go through various coming-of-age moments, you might sometimes feel the kind of pent-up emotion described in its lyrics.

It’s a track that somehow evokes the image of frustrated, heartfelt tears.

MemoriesMaroon 549rank/position

Maroon 5 – Memories (Official Video)

Maroon 5 is an American band that has gained worldwide popularity with its wide-ranging musicality and catchy lyrics.

From upbeat tracks that get you moving to heart-wrenching ballads, they can do it all—but the song we’re introducing this time is so sad you’ll want to have a handkerchief ready.

“Memories” is a masterpiece created as a requiem when their longtime manager passed away.

While death may not feel very close to most high school students, parting ways with friends is inevitable for seniors preparing to graduate.

If you’re in your final year, be sure to give it a listen.