Western songs we want elementary school students to listen to: recommended classics and hit tracks

Shake It OffTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Shake It Off

The song “Shake It Off” by female singer Taylor Swift.

In the music video, Taylor Swift bouncing around freely looks cute and powerful.

The content of the song is also wonderful: even when you’re feeling down or facing adversity, it gives you the energy to live strongly without worrying about such things.

It’s a catchy, fun track, so kids can probably enjoy it with high excitement too.

If you’re simply looking for a fun song to listen to, this one is highly recommended!

Stand By MeBen E. King

Ben E. King – Stand By Me (Official Audio)

You can tell the song has started the moment you hear that striking melodic bassline and the swish of the guiro.

Ben E.

King’s “Stand By Me” inevitably brings to mind the 1986 film of the same name.

That movie centers on four boys, and it instantly recalls the scene of them walking along the railroad tracks.

The lyrics are quite literary, and I think the song is perfectly suited to the start of a grand adventure that gives you courage.

It’s a track I’d love for the boys to hear and draw strength from.

Only TimeEnya

Enya – Only Time (Official 4K Music Video)

Released in 2000, the Irish singer Enya became a huge hit in Japan as well.

Among her songs, “Only Time” is certainly the most famous.

It’s popular as a healing piece, and its deeply echoing, richly layered chorus seems to gently ease the tension from your shoulders when you listen with your eyes closed.

How should we introduce this song to elementary school children? Rather than only offering fast, glittery tracks, letting them listen to pieces that highlight ensemble might lead to new discoveries.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)

The British rock band OASIS’s anthem “Don’t Look Back In Anger.” It’s a song that symbolizes the movement of the ’90s.

The chorus is definitely one that makes everyone want to sing along.

If you want to listen to Western rock bands or are interested in Western rock, I think this song is the perfect entry point.

I’d be happy if, starting from this song, you dive into other bands and many great tracks, and grow more and more interested in Western rock!

Bad DayDaniel Powter

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]

Daniel Powter’s song “Bad Day.” The title might sound a bit negative at first, but if you translate the English lyrics into Japanese, your impression will completely change.

It was a huge hit in 2005 and is a warm track that can lift you up when you’re feeling down.

Even years after its release, it remains a timeless classic, and the melody is wonderful.

Listening to it and making it the first English song you can sing as part of your repertoire would be pretty cool!

Live While We’re YoungOne Direction

One Direction – Live While We’re Young

A five-member boys’ group from the UK.

The members all passed a music audition show, and they’re all great singers.

They made their major debut in 2011 and became so popular worldwide that they were called “the second coming of the Beatles.” They’re now down to four and each is pursuing a solo career.

All their numbers are pop and approachable, but this song is recommended because its theme is youth.

It’s A Small WorldDisneyland Children’s Chorus

It’s a Small World (From “It’s a Small World”)

When it comes to Disneyland, the attraction you absolutely have to ride is “It’s a Small World.” The song was written specifically for the attraction in 1962.

Its message, however, is both very simple and very important.

The Japanese title translates to “Small World,” and it could be a great opportunity for parents and children to think together about what that truly means.

With its irresistibly fun and exhilarating fanfare, even those who haven’t been to the park will surely enjoy listening.