Top 5 Pop Songs for Teen Singers (And Why We Use Them in Class)

Choosing the right song is one of the most important parts of vocal training, especially for teens. The ideal song challenges a young singer without overwhelming them, fits their vocal range and stage of development, and feels emotionally meaningful. It also needs to be age-appropriate and musically rich enough to teach key vocal concepts.

At Youth Vox, we carefully select songs that help our students grow while keeping them motivated and engaged. Pop music is a favorite genre among our teen vocalists because it’s relatable, expressive, and provides a wide range of vocal techniques to explore. Below are five of our favorite pop songs for teen singers — and why we choose them in class.

Easy On Me – Adele

Adele’s “Easy On Me” is a modern ballad that teaches vocal control, breath support, and emotional connection. The melody moves slowly, which gives students time to focus on phrasing and technique. Although Adele has a powerful voice, the song itself can be adapted for beginners with smaller ranges.

We use this song to help teens learn how to convey vulnerability through tone. The lyrics are deeply personal, and students often connect with them in their own way. It also provides a great opportunity to work on dynamics — learning how to move between soft verses and fuller choruses with intention.

Roar – Katy Perry

“Roar” is one of our top picks for building vocal confidence. The message of self-empowerment is perfect for teens who are still finding their voice, both musically and personally. It has a strong, catchy chorus that encourages singers to project and sing with power.

In class, this song is used to teach articulation, resonance, and vocal placement. The lyrics also challenge students to sing with clarity and punch. Because of its upbeat energy and easy-to-remember structure, it’s often a favorite in group performances or showcases.

Drivers License – Olivia Rodrigo

This modern pop ballad is a perfect fit for teens exploring emotional storytelling in music. “Drivers License” allows students to dive into complex feelings like heartbreak, longing, and confusion — emotions that resonate strongly during adolescence.

Vocally, the song is ideal for teaching soft, breathy textures as well as controlled vocal builds. Students practice transitioning from low, intimate verses to stronger choruses without forcing their voice. It’s also a useful tool for working on pitch accuracy and expressive phrasing.

Fight Song – Rachel Platten

Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” is a powerful anthem for self-belief and perseverance, and that message makes it a great song for young singers who may still be developing confidence. It has a moderately challenging vocal line but is accessible to most voices with some adjustment.

We use this piece to teach vocal stamina and phrase control. It also gives students a safe space to push their vocal limits in a healthy way. The song builds gradually, helping students understand how to increase emotional and vocal intensity over time.

Stay – Rihanna feat. Mikky Ekko

“Stay” is a slower pop ballad that introduces teens to the art of duet singing, harmony, and emotional restraint. The vocals are subtle but require strong control and support, making it an excellent choice for intermediate singers.

In class, we explore how to hold tension in a quiet delivery, how to blend voices in partner work, and how to sustain long phrases without breaking the emotional line. The simplicity of the instrumentation allows students to focus entirely on their voice and interpretation.

Why Song Choice Matters

Each of these songs serves a dual purpose: they teach a technical skill and foster personal growth. Whether it’s building power, exploring softness, or learning to connect with lyrics, the music we choose becomes a bridge between training and self-expression.

By selecting songs that are age-appropriate but still emotionally rich, we make sure students feel seen and heard. They’re not just learning how to sing — they’re learning how to express who they are.

As vocal coaches, our job is to create a safe and inspiring space for teens to explore their voice. Choosing the right music is one of the most effective ways to help them take ownership of their learning, build confidence, and truly enjoy the process.