Famous Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of classic tunes you’ve heard somewhere before
For those who mainly listen to Japanese music, foreign songs might not feel very familiar.
However, these days, hit Western tracks are used all over the place—as BGM for TV shows and social media videos, in commercials, and more—so even people who don’t usually listen to Western music have probably heard plenty of it.
In this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of those universally recognizable Western songs all at once.
You’ll likely find tracks you’ve heard but never knew the title of, as well as songs whose titles or artist names you’ve seen but never actually listened to.
Take this opportunity to discover the appeal of Western music!
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Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of famous tunes you’ve heard somewhere (31–40)
FireworkKaty Perry
When it comes to signature songs by American pop icon Katy Perry, this one is undoubtedly it.
With a chorus that swells in the most satisfying way, it’s a standout anthem of the 2010s.
Released in October 2010, it became a massive global hit, topping the Billboard charts.
Carrying a message about cherishing your true self, it resonates with people from all walks of life.
It’s also been widely used in TV commercials and as a movie insert song, shining in a variety of settings.
I highly recommend it as a track that gives you courage when you’re feeling down or losing confidence.
Dani CaliforniaRed Hot Chili Peppers
Opening the 2006 album Stadium Arcadium, this song is a pivotal track that concludes the story of the fictional woman Dani, whose tale was told in fragments on past works Californication and By the Way.
It reached No.
6 on the U.S.
charts and was used as the theme song for the film Death Note in Japan, greatly boosting the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ name recognition.
The dry guitar riff and tight rhythm create a groove that’s quintessentially RHCP.
It’s a number that stirs up nostalgia, along with those MTV visuals that played on repeat during our youth.
Can’t Take My Eyes Off YouBoys Town Gang
A classic that almost everyone has heard at least once—the Boys Town Gang cover version.
Released in 1982, the song topped the charts in several European countries, including the Netherlands and Belgium.
It’s characterized by an energetic rhythm that lights up the dance floor and a catchy melody.
It’s often used in commercials and TV shows as background music, and it’s also a karaoke staple.
This American group enjoyed major popularity in the 1980s.
It’s a track anyone can joyfully dance to, making it perfect for livening up parties and events.
I Really Like YouCarly Rae Jepsen
It’s a catchy pop tune that makes you want to hum along.
Released in March 2015 by Canadian artist Carly Rae Jepsen, the track features a refreshing sound reminiscent of 1980s synth-pop.
The lyrics candidly capture the feelings of an early-stage romance, revealing both strong affection and a hint of anxiety.
In Japan, it was used as a commercial song for LINE MUSIC and gained attention through a commercial featuring actress Nana Komatsu.
It’s sure to brighten your morning commute or school run and give a lively start to your day.
Killing Me Softly With His SongRoberta Flack
It’s a landmark R&B classic that almost everyone has heard at least once.
Sung by American artist Roberta Flack, the song is marked by its gently enveloping melody and deeply resonant lyrics.
Released in January 1973, it spent five consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The following year, it achieved the remarkable feat of winning three Grammy Awards.
Its lyrics, which portray a woman who deeply identifies with the performer’s delivery, have continued to captivate listeners.
In Japan, it’s well known from a Nescafé commercial, and its Japanese title, “Yasashiku Utatte” (literally, “Sing Gently”), may be even more familiar.
Western songs everyone knows: a collection of famous tunes you’ve heard somewhere (41–50)
Just the Two of Us (feat. Bill Withers)Grover Washington Jr.
American saxophonist Grover Washington Jr.
is one of the pioneers of the smooth jazz genre.
This piece, featuring Bill Withers, can be called a crossover masterpiece in which jazz and R&B blend beautifully.
The poetic words contributed by Bill Withers evoke intimate moments shared with a loved one and gentle feelings of mutual affection, bringing warmth to the listener’s heart.
Released in February 1981, the song appears on the acclaimed album Winelight and reached No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
At the Grammy Awards, the song won Best R&B Song, and the album won Best Jazz Fusion Performance.
Beloved across generations, it has even been used to promote the film Deadpool & Wolverine.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to be wrapped in soothing tones or spend special time with someone dear.
I Don’t Want to Miss a ThingAerosmith
I don’t want to miss a single moment spent with the one I love.
This earnest, pure feeling is sung as a power ballad set to a sweeping melody.
Created by the American rock band Aerosmith, the song is famously known as the theme for the 1998 film Armageddon.
It became a worldwide hit, marking the band’s first-ever No.
1 on the U.S.
charts, where it reigned for four consecutive weeks.
The profound love that longs for someone so deeply that even time apart in dreams feels unbearable is conveyed through Steven Tyler’s passionate vocals, stirring listeners to their core.
Paired with the film’s moving scenes, it brought many to tears.
It’s a song that reminds us of the preciousness of love in the moments we share with those dear to us.