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

I wanna be like youLouis Prima

The Jungle Book – I wanna be like you w/lyrics

It’s a song featured in Disney’s The Jungle Book.

Its Japanese title is “Kimi no You ni Naritai” (“I Wan’na Be Like You”), and it expresses the feelings of an orangutan who longs to be human.

Voiced by jazz musician Louis Prima as King Louie, it’s an authentic swing jazz number.

Dirty WorkAustin Mahone

Austin Mahone – Dirty Work (Official)

In Japan, it became famous as the song used in comedian Chiemi Blouson’s routine.

Perhaps due to its high recognition, it was also frequently featured in commercials, spreading its popularity to an even wider audience.

The track, calm yet funky, is enjoyable to listen to on its own.

When Can I See You Again?Owl City

Owl City – When Can I See You Again? (From Wreck it Ralph)

It’s a song famous as the theme for the international version of the movie Wreck-It Ralph.

It also drew attention for featuring Japanese video game characters in the film.

For those who know the movie, I imagine it’s a cherished memory tied closely to the story itself.

Pass The DutchieMusical Youth

Musical Youth – Pass The Dutchie

A single released in 1982.

Musical Youth was a teen band active from the 1970s to the 1980s.

Both the singing and the playing were done by boys in their teens.

The boy who handles the rap part hadn’t gone through voice change yet.

It’s an easy-to-listen-to pop number with a reggae rhythm.

Sexy SexyBrian Setzer Orchestra

The Brian Setzer Orchestra – Sexy, Sexy

It’s a signature song by the big band led by American guitarist Brian Setzer.

In Japan, it gained popularity after being used in a commercial, and it has continued to be loved for many years, often serving as background music on TV shows thanks to its catchy swing-jazz sound.

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Some people might not recognize it just by hearing the song title or artist name.

But if you hear the song, you’ll probably know it.

Since it’s used in the Honda Fit commercial, many of you have likely come across it.

Its lively funk rhythm makes you move your body without even thinking.

Have You Never Been MellowOlivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John Have You Never Been Mellow (Live 1975)

This is a song that could be considered one of female singer Olivia Newton-John’s signature tracks.

It’s a timeless classic that has been loved for many years, so it’s often used in commercials in Japan as well.

Many people have probably heard it somewhere before.