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

Rock the CasbahThe Clash

The Clash – Rock the Casbah (Official Video)

Many references to Western music in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure include punk bands, and a representative example is the Stand name “Clash” used by Squalo in Part 5, Golden Wind.

It’s said to be based on The Clash, one of the defining British punk bands of the 1970s, known for their aggressive performances, their genre-blending music that incorporated reggae and dub, and their socially conscious stance.

As mentioned, not only their early punkish sound but also their later albums, which show musical evolution, are all compelling—so I recommend giving them a listen, even if you’re not a dedicated punk fan.

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I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (Official HD Video)

When it comes to iconic songs by the 90s vocal group Backstreet Boys, this track released in May 1999 comes to mind.

Featured on the album Millennium, it climbed high on the charts in the U.S.

and around the world.

The powerful vocals of the five members and their harmonized choral work are striking, blending with a melody that captivates listeners and cementing its status as a monument of 90s pop that has charmed countless fans.

The lyrics, which portray the strain in a relationship caused by emotional or physical distance between lovers, brilliantly depict the complexities of love and desire.

It’s also perfect for listening while reminiscing about the bittersweet memories of youth.

ThrillerMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Thriller (Official Video – Shortened Version)

A story about terrifying creatures that appear only in the dead of night, and the resolve to protect a loved one from those eerie monsters.

It’s a track from the album Thriller, released in November 1982 by Michael Jackson from the United States.

The music video is a film-like work running a full 14 minutes, memorable for its zombie dance.

It caused a sensation on MTV at the time and won eight awards at the 1984 Grammys.

Listening to it as Halloween approaches sends a chill down your spine while stirring a powerful determination to protect the one you love.

Back In BlackAC/DC

AC/DC – Back In Black (Official 4K Video)

It’s included as the sixth track on AC/DC’s sixth album, Back in Black.

The album has sold over 49 million copies in total, making it the third best-selling album worldwide and a signature work by AC/DC.

It’s a masterpiece that’s irresistible for fans of straightforward rock ’n’ roll.

HonestyBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Honesty (Official Video)

Among Billy Joel’s songs, this one is especially popular in Japan and was reportedly added only to the Japanese edition of his greatest hits album.

It has also been featured in various commercials.

The song conveys that while the world is full of insincerity and it’s hard to find honesty, we should still continue to seek it.

Hard To Say I’m SorryCHICAGO

Az Yet – Hard To Say I’m Sorry (Official Video) ft. Peter Cetera

One of Chicago’s signature songs.

Released in 1982, it reached No.

1 on the U.S.

singles chart for two weeks and topped Japan’s Oricon Western music singles chart for five consecutive weeks in 1982.

Members of TOTO participated as session musicians.

Good TimesChic

Good Times

A signature song by Chic, featuring guitar played by Nile Rodgers, who has produced for artists like David Bowie and Madonna, and more recently Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky.” They were a leading force in the disco boom of the 1970s.

Today, their music is also frequently used as samples in hip-hop.