[2026] Western music you've heard at least once — from trending new tracks to timeless classics

ABCThe Jackson 5

The Jackson 5 – ABC

The Jackson 5, with a young Michael Jackson as the lead singer, was a supergroup made up of his brothers.

You still hear their songs from time to time, right? Thanks in part to the strict training from their father since childhood, Michael’s singing was nothing short of amazing even back then.

Call Me When You Break UpSelena Gomez, benny blanco, Gracie Abrams

Selena Gomez, benny blanco, Gracie Abrams – Call Me When You Break Up (Official Video)

A duet by Selena Gomez and Gracie Abrams that beautifully captures aching lingering feelings and a faint wish.

Released in February 2025, the track intertwines their vocal tones exquisitely, with a melody that gently envelopes the complex emotion of “Call me when we’ve broken up.” It also serves as the lead single from the album I Said I Love You First, co-produced by Selena and Benny Blanco, and marks her first inclusion on a full solo album since 2020’s Rare.

Riding on a nostalgic pop sound, its portrayal of wavering emotions will quietly comfort those hoping to heal the pain of heartbreak or those harboring complicated feelings for a former lover.

You Need To Calm DownTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – You Need To Calm Down

A lively and refreshing message song that’s so very Taylor Swift: “You Need To Calm Down.” This is a track I really hope you’ll enjoy by reading the lyrics.

When you’re a bit tired or feeling full of complaints, I think it’s a song that helps you blow off steam.

I’d be happy if listening to this track makes you feel even a little more liberated!

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Murakami Shinpei

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DesperadoThe Eagles

Desperado – Eagles

With its gentle piano tones and soothing vocals that resonate in the heart, this is “Desperado” by the rock band The Eagles.

In Japan, it was used as the theme song for the film “13 Assassins” and as an insert song in the drama “The Grand Family.” When they recorded this track, they reportedly couldn’t afford multiple retakes due to budget constraints.

Even under that pressure, the performance is heartfelt and seamless, showing no sign of the strain.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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Just the Way You AreBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Just the Way You Are (Official Audio)

This is a signature song for a man in love.

It overflows with the feeling of being utterly smitten with the woman he’s fallen for.

A woman who’s told, “Please stay just the way you are,” must feel truly happy.

The relaxed melody creates an irresistibly romantic atmosphere.

Anti-HeroTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Anti-Hero (Official Music Video)

Topping music charts around the world and generating buzz is “Anti-Hero.” This is a work by Taylor Swift.

Although she’s a world-famous superstar, she reportedly sometimes loses confidence in her music career.

The song explores those negative emotions.

Despite its weighty theme, the melody has a synth-driven pop feel that gives it a refreshing vibe.

Give it a listen when you want to blow your worries away.

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yamamoto

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Bad Habits feat. Bring Me The HorizonEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Bad Habits feat. Bring Me The Horizon (official audio)

Ed Sheeran, a UK-born singer-songwriter who debuted in the 2010s and has become hugely popular here in Japan as well, is one of the most successful artists of his generation.

With his exceptional songwriting sense, distinctive loop-pedal-driven style, and friendly, approachable personality, he’s a beloved figure across genres.

Speaking of Ed, his fifth studio album, “=,” released in November 2021, became a massive worldwide hit and continues to sell steadily.

In February 2022, a new version of its lead single “Bad Habits”—which topped the UK charts for 11 consecutive weeks—was released, featuring a collaboration with Bring Me The Horizon, the UK-born band that has grown into a global rock powerhouse.

While the original version drew attention for its music video in which Ed plays a vampire, this version features animated characters that appear to be modeled after Ed and BMTH frontman Oliver Sykes.

The track leans toward Bring Me The Horizon’s sound, fusing flashy electronic elements with dynamic rock, transforming it into a fresh and intriguing song that naturally delights fans of both artists—and piques the interest of fans on either side.

For Ed’s fans unfamiliar with Bring Me The Horizon, some might have thought, “Was this song always this heavy?” But personally, I think the heavier sound works surprisingly well.

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KOH-1

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