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

I want you to gaze at me.Phil Collins

Phil Collins “Against All Odds”

The lyrics feel a bit like a farewell song, but I’m especially drawn to the line, “You’re the only one who really knew me at all.” I imagine there are many men in their fifties who feel that way about a woman even now, not just in the past.

Yesterday OncemoreCarpenters

Carpenters Yesterday Once More

The sibling duo The Carpenters, Karen and Richard, were beloved for their beautiful melodies and Karen’s vocals.

For junior high school students back then, this was the go-to Western song to listen to for studying English.

Released in 1973, it became a hit in Japan, selling over one million copies.

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.

The First Time Ever I Saw Your FaceRoberta Flack

Roberta Flack The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face ’69

Roberta Flack is an American R&B singer known for her hit “Killing Me Softly with His Song.” “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” was originally released in 1969 as an album track.

The song drew attention after it was used in the 1971 film Play Misty for Me.

Released as a single, it became a massive hit, staying at No.

1 on the U.S.

charts for six consecutive weeks in 1972.

It’s a slow number with a subtly sensual feel.

Don’t CryASIA

Asia – Don’t Cry [HQ]

This song is about something like, “She’s been through so much, and from now on I’ll always be there to support her.” Doesn’t it make you want to sing the phrase “Don’t cry” in the chorus? Women might just fall for a man with that kind of warmth and reliability.