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Classic Western songs that elementary schoolers love. Must-listen! Popular English-language songs.

English classes have finally started in elementary schools, and with the recent popularity of K-pop, elementary school students now have more opportunities to encounter languages other than Japanese in various places, don’t they?

Some kids like studying English, while others find it difficult.

In this article, we’ll introduce not only the K-pop hits popular among elementary school students, but also classic Western songs everyone knows—perfect recommendations for the first English songs to listen to.

Start by listening to a song you like and look up the meaning of the lyrics.

It might spark a love for language learning—not just English!

Classic Western songs that elementary schoolers love. Must-listen! Popular English songs (11–20)

I’ve Got a DreamTangled Cast

Tangled – Cast – I’ve Got a Dream (From “Tangled”/Sing-Along)
I've Got a DreamTangled Cast

Tangled was released in 2010, and this song was also included on the soundtrack released the same year.

It received high acclaim in the United States and the United Kingdom, achieving million-seller status.

Performed by the film’s cast, the song “I’ve Got a Dream” delivers a touching, unexpected twist: the seemingly fearsome regulars at a tavern passionately sing about the dreams they keep hidden in their hearts.

Despite their tough exteriors, their delicate and diverse aspirations movingly convey the message that appearances can be deceiving.

While enjoying Disney’s signature blend of humor and fantasy, listeners are prompted to reflect on inner beauty and diversity—making this a classic song that appeals to both children and adults.

TTTwice

💈 TWICE (트와이스) – TT | English Cover by JANNY
TTTwice

Cover dances—performing choreography to K-pop tracks—are gaining popularity even among elementary school students, and TWICE’s song “TT,” by the Korean-Japanese-Taiwanese mixed idol group, is one of the most popular choices.

Released as a single in 2016, it became a huge hit in Japan thanks to the catchy choreography that imitates the “TT” in the title.

TWICE has both Korean and Japanese versions of the song, and while it’s a cover, a full English version has also been uploaded to YouTube.

If you love K-pop, try learning English with “TT”!

Shake It OffTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift, who is especially popular among young people around the world, released the single “Shake It Off” in 2014.

It reached No.

1 on the charts in the United States, Canada, and Australia, and ranked No.

4 on Japan’s Billboard composite chart.

Many people may have heard it, as it was used for the performance by the main pig characters, Gunter and Rosita, in the 2016 animated musical film Sing.

The lyrics, which portray a forward-looking girl who doesn’t dwell on the past, are also adorable—be sure to check out the Japanese translation!

We Are The WorldUSA For Africa

U.S.A. For Africa – We Are the World
We Are The WorldUSA For Africa

We Are The World was sung by a lineup of star-studded artists for people in Africa suffering from hunger and poverty.

Released in 1985 as a USA for Africa song, proceeds from merchandise and royalties were donated to charity.

It’s a perfect song for elementary school students, both for learning English and for social studies.

It might be fun for everyone to pick a favorite part, memorize the lyrics, and take turns singing in order.

STAYThe Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber

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

Another figure who made headlines through a collaboration with the manga Tokyo Revengers, which is gaining popularity even among elementary school students, is the Australian rapper The Kid LAROI.

In 2021, he collaborated with Justin Bieber on Stay, which reached number one on the U.

S.

charts and ranked tenth on Japan’s Billboard Japan Hot 100.

The lyrics include slang and other colloquial expressions, making it a song where you can learn more than just polished grammar.

The ClimbMiley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus is known as an American singer and actress, and she gained worldwide popularity through the Hannah Montana series.

Her songs convey the importance of overcoming life’s challenges and hardships.

This work, released in 2009, is a power ballad that was also used as the theme song for the film Hannah Montana: The Movie.

Through the metaphor of “climbing the mountains of life,” it sings about the significance of continuing to strive toward one’s goals, delivering a message that resonates with everyone living with dreams and hopes.

Its positive and uplifting lyrics are sure to give listeners courage and energy.

Classic Western songs loved by elementary school kids. A must-listen! Popular English songs (21–30)

ProblemAriana Grande ft. Iggy Azalea

Ariana Grande – Problem ft. Iggy Azalea
ProblemAriana Grande ft. Iggy Azalea

Problem is a collaboration between Ariana Grande, a female singer beloved worldwide as a pop icon, and rapper Iggy Azalea.

Released in 2014, the song was also included on the album My Everything, which came out the same year.

It reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts, and on iTunes it hit No.

1 just 37 minutes after launch, setting a record for the fastest-selling digital single.

Ariana Grande’s English is easy to understand and great for listening practice, so it’s recommended even for elementary school students who are just beginning to learn English.