[2025] Focus on the lyrics! A roundup of coming-of-age Western songs you’ll totally relate to

astridglaive

glaive – astrid (official video)

The pain and frustration of love you experience while climbing the steps to adulthood—this song by Grave, an artist who took flight from an American bedroom to the world and a pioneering figure in hyperpop, captures that raw, stinging side of youth.

You can feel the clumsy teenage heart that, overwhelmed by feelings for someone, tries to get their attention with bold words.

The sound, where emo-tinged guitars blend with electronic elements, seems to express a heart swaying like a roller coaster.

Released independently in June 2020, the track is also included on the acclaimed debut EP “Cypress Grove.” Listen to it on nights when you’re swept up in complicated emotions, and its painfully honest sincerity will surely stay close to your heart.

Obsessed With YouCentral Cee

Central Cee – No Introduction [Music Video]

Slick talent born from London’s streets, Central Cee delivers a track that channels a fierce, obsessive love—like being swept up in the heat of infatuation.

It captures the dangerous gleam of youth, when being fixated on someone blots everything else out.

That one-sided, unstoppable emotion is rendered vividly over a cool drill beat, sampling PinkPantheress’s beloved tune, and set against a wistful melody.

It evokes a prickly, slightly painful state of mind that pure affection alone can’t explain—one many listeners may find themselves relating to.

Released in September 2021 and included on the mixtape “23,” the song peaked at No.

4 on the UK Singles Chart.

Put it on for a night when you want to sink deep into a love that isn’t all sweetness.

Red Wine SupernovaChappell Roan

Chappell Roan – Red Wine Supernova (Magician’s Cut)

This is a dance number by American singer-songwriter Chappell Roan, known for her dazzling synth sound! She spots a gorgeous person at a bar, falls head over heels in an instant, and makes a bold move—the very picture of a youthful coming-of-age moment.

Many listeners will feel their hearts flutter at the impulsive, bittersweet spark of a first love blossoming on the steps to adulthood.

Released in May 2023, the track is also included on the acclaimed album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.

The song has lit up many stages, including performances on Olivia Rodrigo’s tour.

Let it give you the courage to be honest with your feelings—and to enjoy love with all your heart!

Here With Med4vd

d4vd – Here With Me [Official Music Video]

It tightens my chest to hear such a pure, aching wish—the dream of growing old together with the one you love.

The song is by David, a U.

S.

-born singer-songwriter and Gen Z artist who began his career creating BGM for gaming videos.

Inspired by the story of the film “Up,” it carries a steadfast desire to stay by someone’s side forever, sung over gentle, dreamy sounds.

This straightforward love might be the very essence of youthful brilliance.

Released in September 2022, the track is included on his debut EP, “Petals to Thorns.” Why not listen to it at dusk with someone dear to you and be reminded that the ordinary moments are the true treasures?

Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen

Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe

This song by Canadian artist Carly Rae Jepsen vividly portrays the impulsive rush of a single-minded teenage crush and the sweet, bittersweet flutter that comes with it—acting before thinking when you fall in love at first sight.

The restless mix of hope and anxiety after confessing your feelings is something many of us have experienced or dreamed of.

The track seems to suggest that the reckless boldness of youth can be exactly what opens the door to the future.

Released in September 2011 and featured on the acclaimed album “Kiss,” it was also used in Japan as the ending theme for “The! Sekai Gyoten News!” and achieved the remarkable feat of holding No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks.

If you’re feeling timid about love, why not listen to this song and let it give you courage?

RoyalsLorde

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.

American TeenKhalid

Khalid – American Teen (Official Video)

That vague anxiety about the future and the liberating feeling that there’s only now—emotions everyone experiences while climbing the steps to adulthood—are portrayed here, set to a soothing sound.

This song is the title track from American singer-songwriter Khalid’s acclaimed album American Teen, released in March 2017; the album received high praise and was nominated at the 60th Grammy Awards.

Honest not only about the dazzling moments but also about boredom and frustration, it’s a truly down-to-earth anthem.

Put it on as background music for a casual chat with friends or a drive, and it might make you realize that this uncertain time is, in fact, a treasure.