Youth Anthems in Western Music: Ranking [2025]

FRIENDSMarshmello & Anne-Marie50rank/position

Marshmello & Anne-Marie – FRIENDS (Music Video) *OFFICIAL FRIENDZONE ANTHEM*

When talking about youth, it’s no exaggeration to say that romance is an essential element.

By the time you’re in high school, you may experience unpleasant advances or be forced to deal with someone who won’t take no for an answer.

That’s exactly when you should listen to this track, FRIENDS.

It’s a standout piece with lyrics that deliver a fierce diss to guys who make moves even when you’re not interested—highly relatable for many women.

The melody is upbeat and catchy, making it perfect for parties, too!

Another LoveTom Odell51rank/position

Tom Odell – Another Love (Official Video)

It’s about starting a new romance but finding yourself reminded of the previous one.

Even though there are so many things you want to do together, laugh about, and memories you want to create, the past gets in the way.

It’s a poignant song that imagines a love that was so important it still lingers.

Baby One More TimeBritney Spears52rank/position

Britney Spears – …Baby One More Time (Official Video)

This is the debut single by American singer Britney Spears, released in 1998, which became a massive hit.

In 2000, the song was also nominated for a Grammy Award.

It made her name known around the world, including topping the charts in the United States and the United Kingdom.

STAY (with Justin Bieber)The Kid LAROI53rank/position

The Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber – STAY (Official Video)

Sung over a brisk, catchy beat are regrets over mistakes made in youth and a piercing plea to “stay with me.” This track by Australia’s The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber portrays, in a starkly direct way, the heart‑rending emotions felt at the moment you’re about to lose someone precious.

Many listeners likely find themselves painfully reminded of their own younger days by such unflinchingly honest cries from the heart.

Released in July 2021, the song is a single from The Kid LAROI’s mixtape “F*ck Love 3: Over You.” The fact that it topped the Billboard Hot 100 is proof that it resonated with young people around the world.

Put it on during a night of romantic turmoil and melancholy, and it’s sure to keep you company.

A Sky Full Of StarsColdplay54rank/position

Coldplay – A Sky Full Of Stars (Official Video)

When it comes to uplifting, emotional anthems for weddings and receptions, how about this Coldplay track? Its breezy EDM sound, gentle acoustic guitar, and warm vocals will fill everyone with a happy, peaceful feeling.

RoyalsLorde55rank/position

Lorde – Royals (US Version)

When you find yourself comparing your life to a dazzling, glamorous world and feeling vaguely unsatisfied, Lorde, the New Zealand artist, is there to meet you in that complex headspace of youth.

The song she created at just sixteen stands apart from music that celebrates luxury and wealth.

With a cool, clear gaze, it seems to declare that the unvarnished everyday is our true kingdom.

That down-to-earth cry was included on her debut album, Pure Heroine, released in June 2013, and it held the No.

1 spot on the U.

S.

charts for nine consecutive weeks.

The work resonated deeply with many young people.

When you’re tired of pretending to be something you’re not and want to affirm who you are right now, it will surely give your heart a powerful push forward.

Blinding LightsThe Weeknd56rank/position

The Weeknd – Blinding Lights (Official Video)

Although it hasn’t really taken hold in Japan, since the 2020s a genre centered on the 1980s sound known as synth-pop has been gaining popularity overseas as a trend.

The song that helped spark that trend is Blinding Lights.

It’s performed by the Canadian singer-songwriter The Weeknd.

His musical style is entirely synth-pop, featuring many nostalgic synthesizer sounds, yet with a contemporary groove.

As you listen, you’ll likely feel a curious blend of new and old all at once.