17 Best Songs about Teenagers and Adolescence

Music has always been an integral part of teenage culture. It serves as a medium for teenagers to express themselves and connect with others who share similar experiences. Numerous songs have been written about the teenage experience, covering a wide range of themes from love and heartbreak to rebellion and self-discovery.

One such song is “Teenage Dream” by Katy Perry, released in 2010. The song is a nostalgic ode to teenage love and romance, perfectly capturing the excitement and joy of young love. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics have made it an anthem for teenagers around the world.

Another iconic song about teenagers is “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana, released in 1991. The song is a rebellious anthem that captures the angst and disillusionment of a generation of disaffected youth. Its powerful guitar riffs and angsty lyrics have made it a symbol of teenage rebellion and nonconformity.

Other notable songs about teenagers include “Stressed Out” by Twenty One Pilots, “The Kids Aren’t Alright” by The Offspring, and “Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus. Each of these songs captures a different aspect of the teenage experience, whether it be the struggle to cope with the pressures of adulthood, the feeling of being misunderstood, or the desire to belong.

Overall, songs about teenagers offer a unique perspective on the challenges and joys of adolescence. They serve as a powerful tool for self-expression and connection, and continue to inspire and resonate with young people around the world.

1. We Are Young – Fun ft. Janelle Monáe

“We Are Young” is a pop anthem by American indie pop band Fun featuring Janelle Monáe. Released in 2011, the song is known for its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and powerful vocals. The lyrics of the song talk about the exuberance and energy of youth, and the idea that anything is possible when people come together. “We Are Young” became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries, and cementing Fun’s status as one of the biggest pop acts of the 2010s. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to capture the spirit of youth and celebration with its infectious melody and uplifting lyrics.

2. Teenagers – My Chemical Romance

“Teenagers” is a song by the American rock band My Chemical Romance, released in 2007. The song is a raw and intense commentary on the public’s perception of teenagers, often seen as a generation of troublemakers and delinquents. Its driving guitar riffs, thumping bass lines, and pounding drum beats perfectly capture the energy and angst of teenage rebellion, while its provocative lyrics challenge society’s preconceived notions about the youth. “Teenagers” has since become a popular anthem for disaffected teens around the world, inspiring them to challenge the status quo and carve their own path.

3. Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is a grunge rock anthem by American band Nirvana, released in 1991. The song is known for its heavy guitar riffs, driving drums, and angsty vocals. The lyrics of the song express a sense of alienation and disillusionment that was common among young people at the time. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” became an instant classic, and its impact on the world of rock music is immeasurable. The song’s powerful mix of raw emotion and powerful instrumentation helped define the grunge genre and cemented Nirvana’s status as one of the most influential bands of the 1990s.

4. Songs for Teenagers – Fake Problems

“Songs for Teenagers” is a song by the American indie rock band Fake Problems, released in 2009. The song is a bittersweet tribute to the teenage years, capturing the complexities and contradictions of adolescence. Its upbeat melody and catchy lyrics celebrate the highs of youth while also acknowledging the lows and the inevitable changes that come with growing up. “Songs for Teenagers” is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of youth and the importance of cherishing the moments that matter. The song has since become a beloved anthem for teenagers and adults alike, evoking feelings of nostalgia and hope.

5. Teenage Kicks – The Undertones

“Teenage Kicks” is a punk rock song by Northern Irish band The Undertones, released in 1978. The song is known for its simple, catchy melody and high-energy delivery, and its lyrics express the excitement and restlessness of youth. “Teenage Kicks” quickly became a cult hit and a punk rock classic, known for its raw energy and infectious sound. The song’s influence on the punk rock genre is undeniable, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timelessness and ability to capture the spirit of youth and rebellion.

6. A Teenager In Love – Dion and The Belmonts

“A Teenager In Love” is a classic doo-wop ballad by Dion and The Belmonts, released in 1959. The song is a tender ode to young love, capturing the innocence, passion, and heartbreak of teenage romance. Dion’s smooth, soulful vocals are complemented by the group’s rich harmonies and the song’s simple, yet powerful melody. “A Teenager In Love” has since become an iconic song of the late 1950s, a time when rock and roll was just beginning to capture the hearts and imaginations of young people around the world. It remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move audiences of all ages.

7. Teenage Dream – Katy Perry

“Teenage Dream” is a pop song by American singer Katy Perry, released in 2010. The song is known for its upbeat, catchy melody, and its lyrics express the joys and thrills of young love. “Teenage Dream” quickly became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries, and cementing Katy Perry’s status as one of the biggest pop stars of the 2010s. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and its ability to capture the feeling of young love and the thrill of the unknown with its infectious sound and optimistic lyrics.

8. Young – The Chainsmokers

“Young” is an upbeat electronic dance-pop song by American DJ duo The Chainsmokers, released in 2017. The song celebrates the carefree and adventurous spirit of youth, encouraging listeners to embrace the present moment and live life to the fullest. The catchy chorus and driving beats are accompanied by lyrics that reflect on the highs and lows of growing up, from the exhilaration of falling in love to the uncertainty and fear of the unknown. “Young” is an infectious anthem that captures the essence of youth and reminds us to cherish the fleeting moments of our lives.

9. Teenage Wildlife – David Bowie

“Teenage Wildlife” is a song by English musician David Bowie, released in 1980. The song is known for its driving, guitar-heavy sound, and its lyrics express Bowie’s frustration with the commercialization of rock music and the way it was becoming a product rather than an art form. “Teenage Wildlife” is a powerful commentary on the state of the music industry at the time, and its themes of rebellion and artistic integrity resonate with generations of fans. The song’s raw energy and uncompromising message helped establish Bowie as one of the most important and influential musicians of the 20th century.

10. Invisible – Linkin Park

“Invisible” is a song by American rock band Linkin Park, released in 2017. The song is a powerful and emotional anthem about feeling invisible and alone in a world where it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. Lead vocalist Chester Bennington’s haunting vocals perfectly capture the vulnerability and pain of someone struggling to be seen and heard. The song’s brooding melody and atmospheric production create a sense of isolation and despair, but ultimately offer hope and encouragement for those feeling lost and alone. “Invisible” is a stirring and poignant tribute to the human experience and the importance of connecting with others.

11. Young, Dumb & Broke – Khalid

“Young, Dumb & Broke” is a 2017 song by American singer-songwriter Khalid. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus capture the essence of youth and the struggles of growing up. It speaks to the feelings of confusion and uncertainty that many young people face as they navigate the transition from adolescence to adulthood. The lyrics highlight the simple pleasures of life and the importance of living in the moment, even when faced with financial hardship or other challenges. “Young, Dumb & Broke” is an optimistic and relatable anthem that celebrates the journey of youth and the resilience of the human spirit.

12. Tate McRae – Teenage Mind

“Teenage Mind” is a song by Canadian singer and songwriter Tate McRae, released in 2019. The song is known for its emotive, moody sound and its lyrics express the complex emotions and confusion of growing up and navigating the world as a teenager. “Teenage Mind” is a powerful commentary on the internal struggles and pressures that young people face in today’s society, and its themes of identity and self-discovery resonate with a generation of listeners. The song’s melancholic sound and introspective lyrics have helped to establish McRae as a rising star in the pop music world.

13. Fifteen – Taylor Swift

“Fifteen” is a country-pop song by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, released in 2009. The song is known for its nostalgic and bittersweet sound, and its lyrics reflect on the experience of growing up and the memories that define a person’s teenage years. “Fifteen” is a powerful commentary on the universal experience of adolescence, and its themes of friendship, love, and heartbreak have resonated with generations of fans. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and relatable message helped to establish Swift as one of the most popular and influential artists of her generation.

14. Sixteen – Thomas Rhett

“Sixteen” is a song by American country music singer Thomas Rhett. The song tells the story of looking back on the excitement and freedom of being sixteen years old, and reflecting on how much has changed since then. The nostalgic lyrics and upbeat melody perfectly capture the bittersweet feelings of nostalgia and longing that come with growing up. The song celebrates the innocence and joy of youth, while acknowledging the complexities of life and the inevitable passage of time. “Sixteen” is a heartfelt and relatable tribute to the power of memory and the beauty of growing up.

15. Teenage Dirtbag – Wheatus

“Teenage Dirtbag” is a song by the American rock band Wheatus, released in 2000. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics quickly made it an anthem for teenagers around the world. The song tells the story of a misunderstood teenager who is in love with a popular girl in school, but feels like an outcast among his peers. The lyrics capture the feelings of isolation and alienation that many teenagers experience, while also celebrating the power of young love and the transformative nature of music. “Teenage Dirtbag” is an enduring classic that continues to resonate with young people today.

16. 18 – 5 Seconds of Summer

“18” is a pop-rock song by Australian band 5 Seconds of Summer, released in 2014. The song is known for its upbeat and energetic sound, and its lyrics reflect on the experience of falling in love for the first time and the excitement and uncertainty that comes with it. “18” is a catchy and infectious song that captures the essence of youthful exuberance, and its themes of young love and infatuation have resonated with fans of all ages. The song helped to establish 5 Seconds of Summer as one of the most popular and beloved pop bands of the 2010s.

17. Hey Nineteen – Steely Dan

“Hey Nineteen” is a jazz-rock song by American band Steely Dan, released in 1980. The song is known for its laid-back and smooth sound, and its lyrics reflect on the experience of growing older and the challenge of connecting with a younger generation. “Hey Nineteen” is a poignant commentary on the passage of time, and its themes of nostalgia and cultural change have resonated with audiences over the years. The song’s sophisticated musical arrangements and witty lyrics helped to establish Steely Dan as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 1970s and 1980s.