
With everything that's been said over the years about the effect of music and media on teenagers, music is still a great way of identifying with something and connecting to others. When you hear a song on the radio that describes how you feel, it can change everything.
Growing Up Songs About First Love
There's one thing in life you'll never forget, and that is your first love. These songs talk about falling in love for the first time, or memories of first love.
- Taylor Swift
- I Think We're Alone Now Tommy James and the Shondells, but also recorded by artists like Tiffany
- The Beatles
- Deana Carter
- First Kiss Kid Rock
- Play It Again Luke Bryan
- Cheerleader OMI
- Don't Forget Demi Lovato
- Ed Sheeran
- Things I'll Never Say Avril Lavigne
Defiance/Independence Songs About Being a Teenager
Growing up isn't always easy. Teens want to be independent, but parents also have a hard time letting go. There can be moments of angst, uncertainty, and even outright anger. These songs speak to those feelings and can serve as a great release.
- Alice Cooper
- Ready, Set, Don't Go Billy Ray Cyrus and Miley Cyrus
- Breaking Benjamin
- We're Not Gonna Take It Twisted Sister
- Run the World (Girls) Beyonce
- Kelly Clarkson
- Fight Song Rachel Platten
- Burning Down the House Talking Heads
- Bad Reputation Joan Jett
- Another Brick in the Wall, Pt. 2 Pink Floyd
Songs About Teenagers' Future Dreams
As you grow up, you're likely looking toward the day when you'll be able to pursue your dreams fully. Whether you have a specific career in mind, are looking forward to taking on the world however you can, or you simply want to be independent and make your own choices, these songs speak to that desire.
- Roar Katy Perry
- Bon Jovi
- You Gotta Want It Roberta Gold (also recorded by Jordin Sparks)
- Survivor
- Lose Yourself Eminem
- Good Feeling Flo Rida
- Good Morning Mandisa
- Lady Gaga
- Don't Stop Believing Journey
- The Climb Miley Cyrus
Growing Up Songs Looking Back on Childhood
As teens move toward graduation day or going off to college, it can be a bittersweet time. The day you've looked forward to for so many years is finally here, but you may feel a bit torn about whether you're ready for it. Listening to songs that look back on the sweet days of childhood or that explore life lessons can help ease the transition.
- Miranda Lambert
- All About That Bass Meghan Trainor
- The Riddle by Five for Fighting
- This One's for the Girls Martina McBride
- Brooks & Dunn
- Photograph Nickelback
- Cat's in the Cradle Harry Chapin
- In My Life The Beatles
- Green Day
- American Honey Lady Antebellum
Celebration of Adulthood and Graduation Songs
Graduation songs and songs about celebrating adulthood are perfect for graduation parties, graduation slideshows, and get-togethers with friends. These songs speak of the joy of this season of your life.
- Graduation Song The Lift
- Cyndi Lauper
- Celebration Kool & the Gang
- Nicki Minaj
- We Owned the Night Lady Antebellum
- A Moment Like This Kelly Clarkson
- Graduation (Friends Forever) by Vitamin C
- Blink 182
- Forever Young Rod Stewart
Thousands of Growing up Songs
There are thousands upon thousands of songs available about growing up. Not only are there songs that are oldies that are still viable today, but every year new songs are recorded on the topics of first love, growing up, and becoming an adult. The songs listed above are a great start to meet your song searching needs, but there are many more available. What are some of your favorites?