29 Best Songs for Middle Schoolers: The Ultimate Playlist

1. Counting Stars (Native)

Upbeat Tempo: Counting Stars boasts a relentlessly catchy rhythm that's perfect for dancing or just tapping your feet along to—making it ideal for homework breaks or getting ready for school.

Relatable Lyrics: The song's themes of chasing dreams and finding your place resonate with the experiences and aspirations of many middle schoolers, offering a soundtrack for navigating those formative years.

Positive Message: Despite its melancholic undertones, the song ultimately conveys a message of hope and perseverance, encouraging a positive and optimistic outlook among young listeners.

2. This Is What You Came For - Peace Is The Mission (Extended)

Upbeat Tempo: This Is What You Came For boasts a relentlessly catchy rhythm perfect for dancing and singing along, making it ideal for middle school dances or just boosting energy.

Catchy Hook: Rihanna and Calvin Harris' vocals blend effortlessly, creating an instantly memorable chorus that will get stuck in everyone's head.

Positive Vibes: The song's overall feel is undeniably upbeat and fun, offering a relatable and positive message without being overly simplistic.

3. Something Just Like This (Memories...Do Not Open - 2025)

Upbeat Tempo and Catchy Melody: "Something Just Like This" boasts a relentlessly positive rhythm perfect for dancing and singing along, making it ideal for middle schoolers' energetic moods.

Collaborative Pop Powerhouse: The combination of Coldplay's anthemic sound and The Chainsmokers' modern pop production creates a dynamic and instantly memorable track that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Relatable and Positive Lyrics: The song's uplifting lyrics about hope and connection resonate with the experiences and emotions of young teens, offering a feel-good message without being overly simplistic.

4. Dance Monkey (Tones And I - 2025)

Catchy Melody: Dance Monkey boasts an incredibly catchy and repetitive melody that's easy for middle schoolers to sing along to and remember.

Upbeat Tempo: Its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it perfect for dancing and boosting energy levels – ideal for a gym class playlist or a fun after-school hangout.

Relatable Lyrics: While the lyrics might be slightly deeper than some pop songs, the themes of self-discovery and individuality resonate with the experiences of many middle schoolers.

5. Thunder (Imagine Dragons - 2025)

Upbeat Tempo and Rhythm: Thunder's driving beat and powerful percussion are incredibly catchy and easy for middle schoolers to move to, making it perfect for dancing or just boosting energy.

Anthemic Vocals and Lyrics: Imagine Dragons' powerful vocals and relatable lyrics about overcoming challenges resonate with the experiences and emotions of young teens.

Positive Energy and Empowerment: The song's overall message of resilience and strength can be inspiring for middle schoolers navigating the complexities of adolescence.

6. Cheap Thrills

Catchy Melody: "Cheap Thrills" boasts an irresistible hook that's easy to sing along to, perfect for dancing and karaoke sessions with friends.

Upbeat Tempo: The song's energetic rhythm is guaranteed to get middle schoolers moving and grooving; it's the kind of track that brightens any mood.

Collaborative Vibes: Featuring both Sean Paul and Sia, the blend of their distinct vocal styles creates a dynamic and fun listening experience that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

7. Dynamite (2020)

Dynamite - BTS

Upbeat Tempo and Catchy Melody: Dynamite boasts an irresistibly upbeat tempo and catchy melody that's perfect for dancing and singing along, making it ideal for middle school dances or just boosting your mood.

Positive and Energetic Vibes: The song radiates positive and energetic vibes, offering a much-needed escape from stress and promoting a feel-good atmosphere. Its infectious energy is contagious!

Easy-to-Sing-Along Lyrics: The lyrics are simple and fun, making it easy for middle schoolers to learn and sing along, enhancing the overall group experience.

8. CAN'T STOP THE FEELING! (2016)

Upbeat and Catchy Tune: CAN'T STOP THE FEELING! boasts an irresistibly upbeat tempo and a super catchy melody that's perfect for dancing and singing along, making it ideal for middle school dances or just boosting your mood.

Positive and Energetic Vibes: Justin Timberlake's vocals are full of infectious energy and optimism, conveying a message of joy and positivity that resonates well with young listeners. This makes it a great choice for a feel-good playlist.

Relatable Theme: The song's theme of unstoppable happiness is universally relatable, particularly for middle schoolers navigating the ups and downs of adolescence. It's a song that celebrates positive feelings and self-expression.

9. Happy

Upbeat Tempo and Catchy Melody: "Happy" boasts an irresistibly upbeat tempo and a catchy melody that's easy for middle schoolers to sing along to and get energized by.

Positive and Inclusive Lyrics: The song's lyrics promote positivity and inclusivity, making it a feel-good anthem perfect for sharing with friends.

Memorable and Versatile: Its simple yet effective structure and positive message make it a song that sticks with you, appropriate for various school activities and social gatherings.

10. Old Town Road (2019)

Genre Blend: "Old Town Road" cleverly mixes country and hip hop, creating a unique sound that's both catchy and unexpected, perfect for middle schoolers who enjoy diverse musical styles.

Catchy Melody: The song boasts an incredibly memorable melody and rhythm that's easy to sing along to and will get stuck in your head – a major plus for this age group.

Pop Culture Impact: Its viral success and memorable music video made it a significant pop culture moment, providing a shared experience many middle schoolers will recognize and appreciate.