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

Burn Rubber On MeGap Band

Gap Band – Burn Rubber On Me (1981) • TopPop

The Gap Band, an American group that established a sound influencing everything from funk and R&B to modern hip-hop.

Their signature hit, which lit up the disco scene of the ’80s, is a masterpiece that expresses the sorrow of a man betrayed by his lover through an uptempo funk groove.

Featured on the album The Gap Band III, the track is marked by an exquisite groove driven by Charlie Wilson’s Minimoog synthesizer bassline.

It topped the U.S.

R&B chart in 1980 and earned the band their first platinum record.

It’s a song that shines not only on the dance floor but also for cruising and party scenes, and was even included on the soundtrack of the racing game DiRT 3.

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.

Money Changes EverythingCyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper – Money Changes Everything (Live)

This intense song proclaims that money is everything! Cindy’s full-throttle shouts are especially striking.

It was released as a single in 1984.

In Japan, the rock band Hi-Standard covered it.

Like a VirginMadonna

Madonna – Like A Virgin (Official Video)

A song released in 1984.

It is included on Madonna’s second album, which became a massive hit surpassing her previous work, “Burning Up.” Nile Rodgers, the guitarist from Chic, was brought on as the producer.

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.