Hit Western songs from the 2010s. Recommended classics.
When you look back on the Western music scene of the 2010s, which hit songs come to mind?
It was an era when overwhelmingly popular pop stars rose to prominence—led by Lady Gaga—and while many timeless tracks by solo artists like Ed Sheeran and Adele, who conquered the world from the UK, were born, the 2010s also marked the time when hip-hop surpassed rock in sales.
With the advent of streaming, the way we access music changed dramatically, and genres diversified.
Let’s revisit the hit songs of the 2010s in this article!
Hit Western songs of the 2010s: recommended classics (1–10)
Shape of YouEd Sheeran
Since the 2010s, Ed Sheeran, a UK-born artist who has achieved global success, has enjoyed high name recognition in Japan as well.
A multitalented troubadour with an innate melodic sensibility and a wonderful singing voice, he remains unpretentiously himself—and that contrast is part of his charm.
Here, we introduce his massively successful single released in March 2017, which topped charts around the world.
Set to a breezy rhythm incorporating elements of dancehall and tropical house, the song tells the story of a romance that begins with a chance meeting at a bar.
Ed’s signature vocal style—somewhere between rapping and melody—shines throughout.
Wake Me UpAvicii
Released in June 2013 by Avicii, the Swedish artist who tragically passed away at a young age, “Wake Me Up” is truly one of the greatest songs of the 2010s and a summer anthem to remember.
Its distinctive blend of folktronica and EDM, paired with lyrics about youth and self-discovery, set it apart.
The track topped the charts in over 20 countries and garnered more than 2 billion views on YouTube, resonating worldwide.
Embracing those in the midst of life’s journey and inspiring hope for the future, this song is recommended not only for young people but for anyone on a path of self-exploration.
AlrightKendrick Lamar
Released in 2015, Kendrick Lamar’s song is widely recognized as a social anthem reflecting the experiences of the African American community in the United States.
An American artist, Lamar addresses important themes such as police brutality and systemic racism in this track, while delivering a message of hope even in difficult circumstances.
The song is included on Lamar’s third album, To Pimp a Butterfly, and was released as a single in June 2015.
The music video was shot entirely in black and white and won Best Direction at the 2015 MTV Video Music Awards.
It’s a highly recommended track for those interested in social issues or captivated by the profound expressive power of hip-hop.
bad guyBillie Eilish
Released in March 2019, this single propelled Billie Eilish’s career to new heights.
The American singer shocked the music world by topping the Billboard Hot 100 at just 17 years old.
It’s characterized by a distinctive blend of electropop and alternative pop, paired with provocative lyrics.
By subverting the conventional “tough guy” image and adopting the stance of a protagonist who calls herself the “bad guy,” the song resonated with young listeners.
The track won Record of the Year at the 2020 Grammy Awards.
It’s a perfect pick for those who want to assert themselves with confidence.
Uptown Funk (ft. Bruno Mars)Mark Ronson
Released in November 2014, this track is a captivating modern reinterpretation of 1980s funk music.
Created through a collaboration between British artist Mark Ronson and American singer Bruno Mars, it features lyrics that celebrate a confident, stylish way of life, along with the memorable, addictive phrase “don’t believe me, just watch.” It spent 14 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and won Record of the Year at the 2016 Grammy Awards, becoming one of the defining hits of the 2010s.
It’s a perfect pick when you want to lift your spirits or regain your confidence.