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

Have Never Been MellowOlivia Newton-John

Have You Never Been Mellow (The Temptation of a Gentle Breeze) / Olivia Newton-John

In the 1970s, Olivia was the very image of a pure idol—like a singing fairy—captivating men across Japan as she sang with her blonde hair fluttering in the wind.

While her beautiful features made her looks a topic of admiration, her work from the 1980s onward shows clearly that she also possessed solid talent as a singer.

9 To 5 (Morning Train)Sheena Easton

9 to 5 Morning Train — Sheena Easton

She made her debut after being featured in a documentary about a woman aspiring to be a singer in the UK, and in Japan she became a major sensation in 1980 at the moment of her debut for her outstanding beauty and beautiful voice.

Following her debut single, “Modern Girl,” this song also became a big hit in both Japan and the United States.

Call MeBlondie

Call me Blondie

When it comes to new wave, the UK is the home turf, but Blondie, an American new wave band formed in New York, found success in the U.S.

with a sound that had a distinctly different flavor from British new wave.

Call Me was the theme song for the film American Gigolo and became a hit, spending six consecutive weeks at No.

1 in the U.S.

Your smileJames Taylor

James Taylor – Your Smiling Face – Lyrics / HD

“Whenever I see your smiling face I have to smile myself — 君の笑顔を見るたびに、僕も笑ってしまう.” That opening phrase gives lyrics that seem to convey a man's kindness.

It is followed by “Because I live you,” and doesn’t it feel like that phrase could be used somewhere?

I’m Not In Love10cc

10cc – I’m Not In Love

While outwardly insisting “it’s not like I’m in love,” the song paints the aching feelings of a man who has in fact fallen deeply in love, set against a dreamlike melody.

Released in 1975 by the British rock band 10cc, it topped the UK Singles Chart and reached No.

2 in the US.

It’s said that Eric Stewart drew inspiration from a conversation with his wife.

Featured in the film Guardians of the Galaxy, the track resonates with anyone who can’t suppress their feelings for someone special.

A gem of a ballad that stirs the heart—perfect for listening alone on a quiet night.

I’ve Never Been To MeCharlene

Charlene – I’ve Never Been To Me (1977/1982)

The original was sung by Randy Crawford, but isn’t this version sung by Charlene more famous? Known in Japan under the title “Ai wa Kagerō no Yō ni” (“Love Is Like a Heat Haze”), it’s a classic ballad where the gentle vocals shine against a beautiful melody.

Highway to HellAC/DC

AC/DC – Highway to Hell (Official Video)

Are you familiar with the character named Esidisi who appears in the manga JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, which is famous for featuring characters whose names are puns on Western band names and song titles? For a 50th birthday, it might be fun to spend the day listening to music and getting absorbed in a popular manga.