Western music popular among women in their 40s. World-famous classics and hit songs.

I say a little prayerDiana King

Diana King – Say A Little Prayer

The renowned classic “I Say a Little Prayer” by the one and only Dionne Warwick needs no introduction.

Aretha Franklin’s cover is also very famous, but for many women in their 40s, it’s probably Diana King’s rendition—featured as the theme song of the 1997 film “My Best Friend’s Wedding”—that left the most memorable impression.

More than wordsExtreme

Extreme – More Than Words (Official Music Video)

Speaking of Extreme, it’s “More Than Words.” Even if you don’t know the band, many people have probably heard this song.

The guitar intro and gentle melody are so soothing that you’ll want to keep listening forever—it’s a lovely love song.

DOESN’T REALLY MATTERJanet Jackson

Janet Jackson – Doesn’t Really Matter (Official Video)

Released in 2000, this song was also used as a movie’s theme song.

It was a massive hit that played every night in clubs at the time, and it’s also famous for being covered by a Japanese artist.

It’s a lovey-dovey song with the message, “Nothing around us matters as long as we’re in love.”

I should be so luckyKYLIE MINOGUE

Kylie Minogue – I Should Be So Lucky

Kylie Minogue’s “I Should Be So Lucky,” which was a massive hit in Japan during the Eurobeat boom of the late 1980s.

There are also artists who covered her songs in Japanese and achieved major success.

Cant’ Take My Eyes Off Of YouLauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill – Cant take my eyes off of you

Originally a song by Boys Town Gang, but for those around their forties, I imagine more people prefer Lauryn Hill’s version.

Unlike the energetic vibe of the original dance track with its “Love it!! Love it!! I love it!!!” feel, this rendition conveys a more mature, feminine kind of love.