RAG Music
Lovely Western music

Western pop music popular with Gen Z. Hit songs.

New songs are being released every day not only in Japan but around the world, and hit tracks keep being born.

So this time, we’re putting the spotlight on Western music!

We’re going to introduce a bunch of songs that are especially popular with Gen Z.

From high-energy party tunes to mellow ballads, we’ve carefully selected tracks from a wide range of genres.

There are both nostalgic classics and the latest hits, so if you’re a Gen Z fan of Western music, you’ll definitely relate.

Let’s dive in!

Western music popular with Gen Z. Hit songs (1–10)

StayZedd

Zedd, Alessia Cara – Stay (Lyric Video)
StayZedd

It’s a masterpiece woven from sweetness and poignancy.

Released in February 2017, the track was produced by Zedd and features Canadian singer-songwriter Alessia Cara.

Its lyrics, which celebrate youth while expressing anxieties about growing up and the struggles of love, resonate deeply.

It climbed high on charts worldwide, peaking at No.

7 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Blending dance, dance-pop, and electronic elements, its captivating sound appeals to a wide audience, especially young people.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel the sweetness and ache of romance or reminisce about someone special—and many in Gen Z are likely to know it.

bad guyBillie Eilish

This song is captivating for its provocative, humorous tone.

It gained popularity among young people through TikTok and Instagram.

By subverting the conventional “villain” image, it becomes a symbol of personal strength and freedom.

Released in March 2019, it was included on Billie Eilish’s debut album, When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?.

At the 2020 Grammy Awards, it won multiple prizes and was highly praised for its originality.

Blending elements of electropop and alternative pop, its sound is perfect for parties or when you want a change of pace.

Give it a listen—you’re sure to discover a fresh musical appeal!

High HopesPanic! At The Disco

Panic! At The Disco – High Hopes (Official Video)
High HopesPanic! At The Disco

This song resonates with its upbeat sound and positive message.

The lyrics, which emphasize the importance of pursuing your dreams, give many people a push forward.

Released in 2018, it became a massive hit, peaking at No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It’s one of Panic! At The Disco’s signature tracks and a staple of their live performances.

The music video has garnered over 700 million views, reflecting its immense popularity.

It’s the perfect song when you want to work toward your goals or boost your motivation.

Give it a listen!

Western music highly popular with Gen Z. Hit songs (11–20)

CloserThe Chainsmokers

The Chainsmokers – Closer (Lyric) ft. Halsey
CloserThe Chainsmokers

It’s a song that captures Gen Z’s hearts and doesn’t let go.

The melody sticks in your head and has a catchiness that resonates with young people.

It skillfully expresses the complex emotions of love, eliciting empathy from listeners.

Released in July 2016, it created a huge buzz, including spending 12 consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

Known as one of The Chainsmokers’ signature works, it’s loved by many.

It’s the perfect track for a fun drive with friends or making memories with your significant other.

STAYThe Kid LAROI

The Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber – STAY (Official Video)
STAYThe Kid LAROI

It’s a catchy, heart-grabbing track.

Released in July 2021 by Grade A Productions and Columbia Records, it’s a collaboration between The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber that also gained attention as the lead single from the mixtape “F*ck Love 3: Over You.” The song portrays a heartfelt plea to a loved one, featuring a poppy melody and emotionally resonant lyrics.

It became a global hit, topping the charts in 24 countries, including No.

1 in the U.S.

It’s a modern classic that virtually every Gen Z listener knows.

A must-listen for anyone in love or dealing with heartbreak—and it’s guaranteed to hype up a drive or a party.

That’s What I LikeBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – That’s What I Like [Official Music Video]
That’s What I LikeBruno Mars

This track is drawing attention as a Western pop song highly popular with Gen Z.

Through TikTok and Instagram, its lyrics about a lavish lifestyle and expressions of love have captured the hearts of many young people.

It’s a single from the 2016 album “24K Magic,” and it’s a song packed with Bruno Mars’s charm.

It received high praise from critics, including winning the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.

It’s perfect for anyone who dreams of a luxurious life and fun times with a loved one, so Gen Z listeners are sure to feel uplifted by it.

One Call AwayCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth – One Call Away [Official Video]
One Call AwayCharlie Puth

This song has been drawing attention as a popular track among Gen Z listeners of Western music.

Released in August 2015, it’s included on Charlie Puth’s album “Nine Track Mind.” It’s a pop-soul number infused with gospel elements, expressing feelings of love and support for someone dear.

Inspired by a friend’s long-distance relationship, the song resonated widely, peaking at No.

12 on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100 and earning a 4× Platinum certification.

It’s highly recommended for those separated from someone important or anyone wanting to support another person.

Its gentle melody and heartwarming lyrics are sure to bring comfort.