[Oldies] A collection of nostalgic hit songs from Western music of the 1950s
When you hear “Western music from the 1950s,” what kind of songs come to mind?
Hits from the 1950s and 1960s are sometimes called “oldies,” and perhaps because their retro vibe feels stylish, you’ll often hear them as in-store BGM at cafes and vintage clothing shops.
That said, since it’s music from 70 years ago, you might think it has nothing to do with you… For those who feel that way, this article rounds up and introduces classic 1950s Western songs across genres—rock, soul, blues, and more.
You’ll definitely come across some tunes you’ve heard before, so be sure to check them out!
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[Oldies] A Collection of Classic Western Hits from the Nostalgic 1950s (1–10)
Smokestack LightningHowlin’ Wolf
Howlin’ Wolf’s legendary song “Smokestack Lightning,” released in 1956, has continued to exert a major influence on the music scene ever since.
His signature powerful voice and a simple yet resonant rhythm make this track an iconic blues number.
The distinctive harmonica sound in the song pairs perfectly with the imagery of a night train, stirring the listener’s imagination.
Its value is evident from its induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame, and it was also selected for Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” Even now, it remains a stirring blues masterpiece loved by many.
Only You, And You AloneTHE PLATTERS
A gem of a love song whose melody gently cradles sweet feelings of romance and whose warm harmonies resonate in the heart.
Released by the American group The Platters in July 1955, it spent seven consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the R&B chart and became a massive hit, selling over two million copies worldwide.
Tony Williams’s deeply expressive lead vocals blend beautifully with the group’s sophisticated choral work, gracefully conveying a vow of eternal love.
Their memorable performance scene in the 1956 film “Rock Around the Clock” captivated many audiences.
It’s the perfect track for a quiet evening with someone special or as a companion to a romantic dinner.
Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ OnJERRY LEE LEWIS
Jerry Lee Lewis’s 1957 release “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” is truly a rockabilly landmark.
As a striking emblem of the dawn of rock ’n’ roll, the song stunned the youth of its day.
Lewis’s powerful, unconventional piano and passionate vocals continue to be adored by music fans to this day.
Not only did it light up the charts at the time, it has been covered by countless artists over the years, and you can still often hear it as background music in cafés and fashion boutiques.
Even more than 60 years later, the song brims with youthful energy, whisking listeners back to the vibrancy of their younger days.
That’ll Be the DayBuddy Holly & The Crickets
“That’ll Be the Day” is a song released in 1957 by Buddy Holly and his band, the Crickets, and is considered a milestone of rock ’n’ roll.
The track is marked by its driving rhythm and pleasing melody, with a hook that sticks in your head after just one listen.
It also carries inspiration from the film “The Searchers,” reflecting youth and the American culture of its time.
From the very first notes of the intro, it has the power to transport you to that era and place—an immortal classic.
Even today it feels fresh, and when it comes on as background music, you can’t help but stop and listen.
It truly stands as a quintessential representative of nostalgic ’50s Western pop music.
Summertime BluesEddie Cochran
When it comes to quintessential rock ’n’ roll classics of the 1950s, many people probably think of the coming-of-age anthem released in June 1958 by American musician Eddie Cochran.
Portraying the frustrations of a teenager stuck working a summer job with a breezy rhythm and plenty of humor, the song became a major hit, reaching No.
8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No.
18 on the UK Singles Chart.
It was later covered by numerous artists, including Blue Cheer and The Who, and featured in films such as Caddyshack and La Bamba.
Its lyrics, which refreshingly distill youthful rebellion and dissatisfaction with society, carry a universal message that anyone can relate to, and it’s the kind of tune that would sound right at home as background music in a café or vintage clothing shop.