10 Songs about Being 14

There’s something special about the music we discover during our formative teenage years. Whether it’s the first time we hear a song on the radio, at a school dance, or through a friend’s recommendation, these tunes have a way of embedding themselves in our memories and shaping our musical tastes for years to come. For many, the age of 14 represents a particularly influential period in their musical journey. It’s an age when we start to form a sense of identity and begin to explore our own tastes, often branching out from the music our parents listened to and discovering new genres and artists. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of the best songs from a variety of genres that were released when many of us were 14. From pop hits to classic rock anthems, these songs have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by music fans of all ages. So whether you’re feeling nostalgic for your own teenage years or simply want to discover some great music from the past, join us as we take a trip down memory lane and explore the best songs from being 14.

1. We Are Young – Fun ft. Janelle Monáe

“We Are Young” is a pop-rock anthem released by the American band Fun featuring Janelle Monáe in 2011. The song’s soaring chorus and energetic instrumentation provide the perfect backdrop for its message of youthful rebellion and celebration of friendship. The lyrics capture the feeling of being young and invincible, urging listeners to seize the moment and live life to the fullest. The song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus propelled it to the top of the charts, earning it widespread popularity and critical acclaim. “We Are Young” remains a beloved song for its uplifting message and infectious energy, making it a timeless anthem for youth and joy.

2. Teenagers – My Chemical Romance

“Teenagers” is a song by the American rock band My Chemical Romance, released in 2007 as part of their third studio album, “The Black Parade”. The song’s driving guitar riffs and pounding drums, combined with frontman Gerard Way’s snarling vocals, create a powerful and energetic punk rock anthem. The lyrics explore the often misunderstood world of teenagers, addressing themes of rebellion, alienation, and the pressures of conformity. The chorus, with its unforgettable refrain of “Teenagers scare the living s**t out of me,” has become an iconic rallying cry for disaffected youth. “Teenagers” was both a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the rock charts and earning praise for its raw energy and unflinching honesty. The song’s enduring popularity has made it a staple of rock radio and a beloved anthem for a generation of disenchanted youth.

3. Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is a legendary rock song by the American band Nirvana, released in 1991 as part of their second album, “Nevermind”. The song’s explosive guitar riffs and pounding drums, combined with the raw power of Kurt Cobain’s vocals, created a revolutionary sound that defined the grunge movement of the early 1990s. The lyrics are cryptic and provocative, touching on themes of apathy, disillusionment, and the angst of youth culture. The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain of “Here we are now, entertain us,” became an anthem for a generation of disaffected youth, sparking a cultural shift in music and fashion. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was a critical and commercial success, topping the charts and earning widespread acclaim for its innovative sound and raw energy. To this day, the song remains a defining moment in the history of rock music, inspiring countless artists and continuing to resonate with listeners of all ages.

4. Songs for Teenagers – Fake Problems

“Songs for Teenagers” is a song by the American indie rock band Fake Problems, released in 2010 as part of their fourth studio album, “Real Ghosts Caught on Tape”. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat guitar riffs create a lively and infectious pop-rock anthem that speaks directly to the teenage experience. The lyrics touch on themes of youthful rebellion, love, and the struggles of growing up, capturing the joy and confusion of adolescence with wit and charm. The song’s chorus, with its infectious refrain of “Songs for teenagers, let’s pretend we’re in love,” is both catchy and poignant, capturing the bittersweet nature of teenage romance. “Songs for Teenagers” was well-received by critics, earning praise for its catchy hooks and relatable lyrics. The song remains a beloved track for its unabashed celebration of youth and its infectious energy, making it a must-listen for anyone looking for a fun and catchy pop-rock tune.

5. Teenage Kicks – The Undertones

“Teenage Kicks” is a punk rock classic by the Northern Irish band The Undertones, released in 1978 as their debut single. The song’s driving guitar riffs, pounding drums, and infectious melody create a classic punk rock anthem that captures the energy and spirit of youth culture. The lyrics, which express the excitement and raw emotion of teenage love, have become iconic in their simplicity and sincerity. The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain of “Teenage kicks, so hard to beat,” has become an enduring rallying cry for generations of music fans. “Teenage Kicks” was a critical and commercial success, earning the band a devoted following and securing their place in the pantheon of punk rock legends. The song remains a beloved classic for its raw energy and unabashed celebration of youth culture, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to experience the power and passion of punk rock.

6. A Teenager In Love – Dion and The Belmonts

“A Teenager In Love” is a classic doo-wop song by Dion and The Belmonts, released in 1959. The song’s romantic lyrics, combined with its gentle melody and harmonizing vocals, create a timeless love song that speaks directly to the teenage experience. The lyrics explore the excitement and uncertainty of teenage romance, capturing the feelings of infatuation and vulnerability that come with falling in love for the first time. The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain of “Why must I be a teenager in love,” has become an enduring anthem for young lovers everywhere. “A Teenager In Love” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of the charts and earning widespread praise for its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song remains a beloved classic for its timeless message of love and its enduring appeal to music fans of all ages.

7. Teenage Dream – Katy Perry

“Teenage Dream” is a pop song by the American singer Katy Perry, released in 2010 as the title track of her third studio album. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and nostalgic lyrics create a fun and energetic pop anthem that captures the excitement and innocence of young love. The lyrics explore the intoxicating feeling of being swept up in the passion of teenage romance, celebrating the freedom and joy of youth. The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain of “Let’s go all the way tonight, no regrets, just love,” has become an iconic anthem for young love. “Teenage Dream” was a commercial and critical success, topping the charts and earning praise for its infectious energy and relatable lyrics. The song remains a beloved pop classic for its unabashed celebration of youth culture and its message of living life to the fullest.

8. Young – The Chainsmokers

“Young” is an electronic dance pop song by the American duo The Chainsmokers, released in 2017 as part of their debut album “Memories…Do Not Open”. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and optimistic lyrics create a hopeful and uplifting pop anthem that celebrates the freedom and possibilities of youth. The lyrics encourage listeners to live in the moment, embrace their youth, and chase their dreams with passion and enthusiasm. The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain of “We’re still young, we’re still dumb, we don’t care, we’re not done,” captures the essence of youthful optimism and rebellion. “Young” was a commercial success, earning widespread airplay and praise for its infectious energy and relatable lyrics. The song remains a beloved pop classic for its message of hope and its celebration of the exuberance and vitality of youth culture.

9. Teenage Wildlife – David Bowie

“Teenage Wildlife” is a rock song by the legendary British musician David Bowie, released in 1980 as part of his “Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)” album. The song’s driving guitar riffs, pulsating rhythm, and Bowie’s distinctive vocals create a powerful and anthemic rock song that celebrates the rebellious spirit of youth culture. The lyrics explore the themes of teenage disillusionment, societal pressures, and the struggle to find one’s identity in a rapidly changing world. The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain of “You’re a young man, a shouting, shouting, shouting street kid,” captures the raw energy and anger of youth culture. “Teenage Wildlife” was a critical success, earning widespread praise for its raw energy and incisive lyrics. The song remains a beloved classic for its powerful message of rebellion and its celebration of the restless, questioning spirit of youth culture.

10. Invisible – Linkin Park

“Invisible” is a rock ballad by the American rock band Linkin Park, released in 2017 as part of their album “One More Light”. The song’s haunting melody, introspective lyrics, and Chester Bennington’s emotive vocals create a powerful and poignant rock ballad that explores the feelings of isolation and vulnerability that many teenagers experience. The lyrics speak to the pain of feeling unseen and unheard, of struggling to find a place in the world and connect with others. The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain of “Do you feel cold and lost in desperation? You build up hope, but failure’s all you’ve known,” captures the raw emotions of teenage angst and the search for meaning and purpose. “Invisible” was a commercial success, earning widespread praise for its emotional depth and powerful message. The song remains a beloved rock ballad for its raw honesty and its ability to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.

April Johnson

April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.