Recommended Western music for women in their 50s: world classics and popular songs

Endless LoveDiana Ross & Lionel Richie

Lionel Richie – Endless Love with Crystal Kay

Diana Ross is the Queen of Pop, with 18 number-one hits to her name.

Lionel Richie moved from the Commodores to a solo career and wrote many hit songs.

He also wrote this song, the theme for the romantic film “Endless Love.” It held the number-one spot for nine consecutive weeks in 1981.

Your Only LonelyJ.D. Souther

You’re Only Lonely – John David Souther

This song is J.D.

Souther’s only Top 10 hit, but he himself has also been active as an actor and has written songs for other singers.

In Japan, the song was used in commercials and as an insert song in films.

In Taiwan, it has been covered in Chinese.

Hail Holy QueenDeloris Van Cartier

Sister Act – Hail Holy Queen (Deloris and The Sisters)

Sister Act, a classic film that continues to be loved by many viewers, is a heartwarming music-centered movie in which a struggling singer transforms a convent choir so dramatically that she gradually gains recognition from the townspeople and the convent community.

The film features numerous iconic songs, and among them, the most memorable is surely Hail Holy Queen, the first piece performed by the newly evolved choir.

Although it’s a traditional Christian hymn, this rendition is arranged with a decidedly groovy and lively vibe.

As a choral piece, some parts feature frequent improvisational embellishments, but the basic main melody is fairly easy to sing—so consider adding it to your repertoire.

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Country RoadOlivia Newton-John

Take Me Home, Country Roads (Country Road) / Olivia Newton-John

The original was sung by John Denver, but this version became an even bigger hit.

Olivia Newton-John, with her glamorous looks and assured vocal ability, was the most popular female vocalist in Western pop music at the time.

The Japanese translation is still sung in elementary and junior high schools today.

GhostbustersRay Parker Jr.

Original GhostBusters Theme Song

Known as the theme song for the 1984 film of the same name, this track is a masterpiece by American musician Ray Parker Jr.

Its catchy hook and upbeat rhythm are unforgettable—you’ve probably heard it at least once.

The lyrics brilliantly capture the movie’s world, sparking the adventurous spirit of the ghost-busting protagonists.

It was a massive hit, spending three consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It’s a perfect pick to amp up parties or Halloween events.

Sing along to the lively beat, and you’re guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.

BabeStyx

Babe Styx

It became a million-selling smash for Styx and spent two weeks at No.

1 in the U.S.

in 1979.

It was originally a private song Dennis DeYoung wrote as a birthday gift for his wife.

Their popularity then grew in Japan as well, and they made their first visit there in 1982.

We Will Rock YouQueen

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

Queen is the renowned four-piece rock band from the United Kingdom.

Led by Freddie Mercury’s commanding vocals, they gained popularity for their high-level musicianship, performance skills, and artistry.

This song combines simplicity and power, and it is still used in a variety of contexts today.