1. “Viva La Vida” by  Coldplay

Their 2008 album “Viva La Vida” masterfully fuses the sounds of modern and vintage R&B, resulting in tracks such as this one which can easily be played for hours on repeat.

2. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus

Cyrus’ strong vocals and motivating lyrics in this song, originally from “The Hannah Montana Movie,” still serve as inspiration. Whether you are writing a research paper, studying for an exam or just looking to reminisce on your middle school years, this song is the ultimate go-to. 

3. “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon Five

Okay, so this song came out in 2002, before we were in middle school, but Maroon Five is always relevant, and this is a classic. 

4. “Just Dance” by Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga has never been bigger than she is now, especially after her Super Bowl halftime performance. However, it was “Just Dance” that put her on the map, way back in 2008. Where has the time gone?

5. “How To Save A Life” by The Fray

A classic sad sing-along, the Fray’s “How to Save a Life” stayed on the

Billboard Hot 100 for 58 consecutive weeks after its release in 2005. 

6. “Love Story ” by Taylor Swift

Where it all began – the first of many love songs to come from Swift, as well as the beginning of her feud with Kanye. Also, what would pop culture or the Jug be without “Love Story”? 

7. “Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)” by Beyoncé

This song goes down in history as the ultimate chant for all the single ladies out there.

8. “Whatever You Like” by T.I

A middle school favorite, this 2008 leading single from T.I.’s album “Paper Trail,” which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, is sure to get you moving.

9. “Waiting on The World To Change” by John Mayer

Another inspirational song to make the list, John Mayer’s “Waiting on the World to Change” won him a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal

Performance in 2007. 

10. “No One’” by Alicia Keys

This Grammy award-winning Alicia Keys song received critical acclaim as an R&B ballad, making it onto Billboard’s Hot 100 All-Time Top Songs. 

11. “I Kissed A Girl” by Katy Perry

Katy Perry, who has since given us “Teenage Dream,” “California Girls” and “Dark Horse,” rose to fame with this 2008 hit. 

12. “Boom Boom Pow” by the Black Eyed Peas

This Black Eyed Peas comeback song was number one on Billboard’s Top 100 list of 2009. 

13.“Hoedown Throw Down” by Miley Cyrus

She’s definitely talking about the frozen wasteland that is Hamilton, NY.