An American singer who shocked the world
In Japan, when people say “Western music,” I think they usually mean American music.
In fact, from a commercial standpoint, the American music scene is the largest in the world.
This time, I’ll be introducing American singers.
Rather than simply featuring artists who scored massive hits, I’ve selected those who had a major impact on the music scene.
As a result, you’ll also get to learn about the history of American music.
I’ve selected tracks from a variety of genres—soul, jazz, R&B, hip-hop, hard rock, and more—so please take your time and enjoy.
- Top Female Singer-Songwriters and Popular Songs of the 2000s [2026]
- Male singers with great voices: a collection of cool, seductive vocals
- [2026] Recommended Breakout Artists: A Roundup of Era-Defining Singers and Groups
- Must-listen! Recommended! Spotlight on male solo artists in Western music
- [Film Music] Theme songs from Western movies: those unforgettable classics and popular tunes
- [Western Music Collection] Compilation of Car Commercial Songs [2026]
- Nothing but masterpieces! Love songs by male artists recommended for Gen Z
- Masterpieces by male artists known for their captivating high notes. Recommended popular songs.
- A roundup of the greatest Western blues artists in history
- Recommended for Gen Z! Classic love songs sung by female artists
- [2026 Edition] Must-Know Popular Female Singers from the United States
- [US] Great Hip-Hop Classic
- A roundup of great soul music singers and artists
American singers who shocked the world (11–20)
Move on UpCurtis Mayfield
Neo-soul, the music genre that influenced modern R&B, was born in the 1970s.
The four kings of neo-soul are said to be Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway, Stevie Wonder, and Curtis Mayfield here.
Unlike the other neo-soul singers, he based his sound on orthodox soul music.
Because of that, he served as a kind of bridge connecting the then-novel neo-soul to the broader American music scene.
JumpVan Halen
A rock song by Van Halen, the band centered around Edward Van Halen—who, despite revolutionizing rock guitar and influencing guitarists worldwide, sadly passed away in 2020.
Released as a single from their sixth album, 1984, it became the band’s first No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100, bringing the Van Halen name to a wide audience beyond rock fans.
Its catchy keyboard riff and virtuosic guitar work are so impactful that it’s no surprise the more pop-leaning arrangement has become the most famous version.
Even today, it’s cherished as an immortal classic and a defining rock tune in music history.
Hit ‘Em Up2Pac
When talking about West Coast hip-hop, the presence of Tupac is indispensable.
During the time he was active, there was a major conflict among gangs and hip-hop crews on the West and East Coasts, and he himself was assassinated as a result of being caught up in that strife.
However, even after his death, his popularity and influence have remained strong, impacting many rappers.
He is an artist you cannot avoid if you want to understand hip-hop, so beginners should definitely check him out.
End Of The RoadBoyz II Men
Boyz II Men are one of the most successful groups in the R&B scene from the 1980s to the 1990s.
If you know even a little about R&B in Japan, you’ve probably heard of them, right? Their biggest charm is, without a doubt, their exquisite harmonies.
Wanya Morris’s vocal power is extraordinary, but I think Boyz II Men shine the most when the four vocalists weave their harmonies together.
Their classic “End of the Road” is packed with everything that makes them great, so be sure to check it out.
Doo-WopLauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill is a female singer-songwriter from the United States who has gained popularity as a highly skilled artist.
In Japan, many people probably first learned about her through the film Sister Act 2.
Her greatest appeal is, without a doubt, her musicality.
For a female singer of her time, her style was unconventional: while rooted in authentic hip-hop, she also possesses the powerful vocal ability of an R&B singer.
Every one of her tracks is exceptionally tasteful, so be sure to check them out.