Recommended Western music for men in their 40s: world classics and popular songs

When Doves CryPrince

When Doves Cry

Purple Rain, the masterpiece by Prince, who passed away in 2016.

Released in 1984, the album became a massive hit, and its track When Doves Cry was also released as a single in Japan under the title “Beat ni Dakarete.” Its distinctive guitar intro and danceable rhythm still have a timeless appeal even today.

1999Prince

Prince – 1999 (Official Music Video)

This is Prince’s smash-hit album released in 1982, created when he was already brimming with talent from a young age.

With this record, which sold four million copies in the U.S., he instantly stood shoulder to shoulder with the defining artists of the 1980s.

His distinctive songs, vocals, and fashion captivated the entire world.

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Yoshizaki Keiko

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Another One Bites the DustQueen

Queen – Another One Bites The Dust (Live)

Queen is one of the rock bands that represent the United Kingdom.

They had been active since the 1970s, and in 1980 they released what became the band’s biggest hit: “Another One Bites the Dust.” In Japan, it was hugely popular at the time under the title “Jigoku e Michizure.” Its dance music–like rhythm is complemented by Freddie Mercury’s distinctive vocals, giving it a unique and unparalleled appeal.

StandR.E.M.

R.E.M. – Stand (Video)

When it comes to music of the ’80s, many people might picture a flood of hit songs born from flashy, big-budget productions.

In reality, though, it was also an era when indie bands—who would later sweep the world under the banner of alternative rock—were beginning to find their voice, distinctly separate from the mainstream.

Formed in 1980 in the United States, R.E.M.

was truly a pioneering presence.

Regulars on college charts across the country and wildly popular at the time, they continued on to massive success after going major.

“Stand,” included on Green—their first major-label release and the record that can be considered their breakthrough—was a hit notable for its catchy melody even among their catalog.

Influenced by the bubblegum sound of the ’60s, it’s an unusually bright, upbeat pop song for them.

As the band’s self-deprecating remark puts it, it’s “the most ridiculous song we’ve ever written,” and it’s interesting that the lyrics are deliberately straightforward.

That said, the simplicity of the message is precisely what makes it hit so directly.

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KOH-1

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Never Gonna Give You UpRick Astley

Rick Astley – Never Gonna Give You Up (Official Video) (4K Remaster)

This is a song released in 1987 as the debut single of British singer Rick Astley.

He gained popularity with his soulful vocals and became one of the defining pop stars of the ’80s.

Although the music video now feels quite dated, it was widely used in the 2000s as the target of prank links on overseas internet forums, which ultimately led to a revival hit for the track.