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

A Whole New WorldMena Massoud, Naomi Scott

Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott – A Whole New World (from Aladdin) (Official Video)

This is the live-action theme song from Disney’s Aladdin, which was released in Japan in the summer of 2019, sung by the two lead actors.

The song itself is famous worldwide, and its soaring, powerful chorus melody is highly memorable.

It’s a classic that even those who haven’t seen the film have likely heard at least once.

The grand arrangement is also excellent, making it a moving masterpiece even when listened to now.

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Murakami Shinpei

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Girls Just Want To Have FunCyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Want To Have Fun (Official Video)

It’s a poppy, catchy Cyndi Lauper number.

It was Cyndi Lauper’s first single as a solo artist.

The song has been featured in various films and TV shows around the world.

In Japan, EGO-WRAPPIN’ and Kaela Kimura have covered the song in collaboration with N’ Shukugawa BOYS.

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SAKI

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GirlfriendAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Girlfriend (Official Video)

Released on February 7, 2007 as the lead single from Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne’s third album, The Best Damn Thing, which she debuted at age 17.

In Japan, this catchy, upbeat track was also used for a limited time in a Universal Studios Japan attraction.

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Hoshino Takashi

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WannabeSpice Girls

Spice Girls – Wannabe (Official Music Video)

The debut single by the British girl group Spice Girls! From the very beginning, its distinctive melody makes it a fun listen, and it’s a song frequently heard in Japan as well.

With this debut track, they reached number one in 37 countries and sold six million copies worldwide, becoming a massive hit.

At the 2012 London Olympics, they appeared at the closing ceremony and performed this song.

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SAKI

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Separate WaysJourney

Journey – Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) (Official HD Video – 1983)

You’ll recognize this one from its tense, synth-driven intro: it’s Separate Ways, released in 1983 by the legendary rock band Journey.

With an aggressive, fighter-like, and muscular sound, the song has even been used in Japan as Samurai Japan’s theme for the WBC.

And you can’t talk about this track without mentioning its music video—one that inevitably makes you add a question mark.

It’s a notorious curio that runs counter to how cool the song is, so be sure to check it out at least once!

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Yoimachi Jēn

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The LocomotionLittle Eva

Little Eva – Loco-motion(1962)

Locomotion is such a bright and happy song that makes you want to hum along.

It has been covered by many artists, including Kylie Minogue and Sylvie Vartan.

This video features the original version released in 1962, composed by Carole King.

I Don’t CareEd Sheeran & Justin Bieber

Ed Sheeran & Justin Bieber – I Don’t Care [Official Music Video]

Delivered by the powerhouse duo of Ed Sheeran and Justin Bieber, this track is irresistibly poppy and instantly catchy.

The relaxed restraint in both of their vocals, combined with a title like ‘I Don’t Care,’ makes it feel like the perfect song to help you forget the bad and the tough, and spend an amazing day with friends or a loved one.

Even though it’s a collaboration the whole world is watching, the music video is pretty playful and goofy—very them.

The song itself is a warm, danceable tune that’s perfect for moving to.