Recommended Western music for high school students: world classics and popular songs
Here are some classic and popular Western songs recommended by our studio staff that are especially popular among high school students.
It’s also a great playlist for your commute or as background music while studying!
Recommended Western songs for high school students: World classics and popular hits (1–10)
Treat You BetterShawn Mendes
A track released as a single in 2016 by Canadian singer Shawn Mendes.
It reached the top 10 on charts around the world and was certified platinum in 15 countries.
The track of the same name by Emma Hoisters and Markus Cole was inspired by Shawn’s track.
Santa Tell MeAriana Grande
This is a Christmas song by American pop diva Ariana Grande that’s loved around the world every winter.
Set to an upbeat, heart-lifting sound, she sings a slightly bittersweet love story, asking Santa, “Will he still be by my side next year?” The glittering holiday atmosphere and the delicate feelings of a love in flux blend perfectly, making your heart skip a beat.
Released in November 2014 on the EP “Christmas Kisses,” the track was also performed on a Disney Parks special.
Its popularity steadily grew, and it became a new holiday staple—becoming the first 21st-century song to break into the U.
S.
Top 5.
It’s the perfect tune for anyone pining after someone special, and if you play it at a party while chatting about love with friends, you’re sure to share those sweet-and-sour feelings and have a great time.
Try EverythingShakira
This is a song that gives you a powerful push on the back, saying, “It’s okay to fail over and over—just try again!” Sung by the world-famous star from Colombia, Shakira, the track was written as the theme song for the Disney film Zootopia.
The protagonist’s strong will to keep taking on new challenges without giving up—even after falling down and getting hurt—is vividly portrayed over a bright, pop melody.
The song became a beloved classic worldwide, earning a nomination for Best Song Written for Visual Media at the 59th Grammy Awards.
It’s perfect for when you hit a wall in your studies or club activities, or when you want to fire yourself up to start something new.
It’s sure to fill you with positive courage and make you think, “I can do it!”
High HopesPanic! At The Disco
An irresistibly cheerful anthem that gives you a nudge and says, “I can do it!” This song is by the American rock band Panic! At The Disco.
The powerful horn section and Brendon Urie’s soaring vocals alone are enough to fill you with energy.
The track centers on his childhood dreams and sings about the importance of continuing to set ambitious goals, even when things don’t go well.
Featured on the album Pray for the Wicked, it became a massive hit, spending 65 weeks at No.
1 on Billboard’s Hot Rock Songs chart.
It was also used in a Honda commercial, so many people may find it familiar.
Listen to it when you’re working toward your dreams and goals, and you’ll feel inspired to believe that “nothing is impossible!”
The Lazy SongBruno Mars
“I don’t want to do anything today!” There’s a perfect song for that lazy mood by American artist Bruno Mars.
It humorously portrays a slothful day of ignoring calls and just lazing around in bed—something many listeners can relate to.
Set to a laid-back, reggae-inspired groove, the bold celebration of “doing nothing” alone can make you feel lighter just by listening.
Released in February 2011 from his debut album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, the track topped the charts in the UK.
If you’re worn out from schoolwork or club activities, it might be nice to put this song on and plan a day to just relax and do absolutely nothing.
Work from HomeFifth Harmony ft. Ty Dolla $ign
A collaboration between the American girl group Fifth Harmony and singer Ty Dolla $ign.
Released in 2016, it reached the Top 10 on charts around the world.
This track won both an MTV Video Music Award and an American Music Award.
FifteenTaylor Swift
It’s a song by Taylor Swift released in 2009.
As the title suggests, she sings about being fifteen, but the content fits perfectly for high schoolers in general.
The teenage years are full of experiences, mistakes, and worries, but this song reminds us that all of that is a page in our youth.