Ranking of Western Music Artists Popular Among People in Their 50s [2026]

Bridge Over Troubled WaterSimon&Garfunkel29rank/position

Simon and Garfunkel – Bridge Over Troubled Water

This is probably a popular choice to wrap up a girls’ night.

It’s the legendary classic by S&G that everyone knows.

For those of us who are likely halfway through our lives, when we’re tired of life, when we want to comfort a downhearted friend, encourage someone who’s stumbled, or rally ourselves—this song is always there by our side.

Split the parts and harmonize; sing it tenderly and quietly, grandly and with full voice, and you’ll feel refreshed.

It’s an eternal classic with a mysterious power that helps you reclaim your pride, take another step toward tomorrow, and brim with courage and motivation.

Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us NowStarship30rank/position

Starship – Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now (Official Music Video) [HD]

Known as the theme song from the movie Mannequin, this track remains a popular 80s classic.

With its distinctly 80s pop sensibility and melodious sound, it’s the kind of song that makes the singer feel uplifted.

It’s a great Western hit to perform as a male-female duet.

Eye Of The TigerSurvivor31rank/position

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)

A song by the American hard rock band Survivor, which became a worldwide hit as the theme for the movie Rocky III.

It’s also used as an entrance theme for some athletes, so it likely sounds familiar.

Dave Bickler’s sharp, resonant vocals vividly convey a bold, fiery spirit, and the bass is especially effective, making it a standout track.

Singing this makes you feel pumped up, like “All right, let’s do this!”—a truly energizing song.

Everybody Wants To Rule The WorldTears for Fears32rank/position

Tears For Fears – Everybody Wants To Rule The World (Official Music Video)

A hit song by the British band Tears for Fears.

Although the lyrics are anti-nuclear, the music has a sweeping feel that makes you want to listen to it while driving through nature.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing with a touch of melancholy.

Close To YouCarpenters33rank/position

[They Long To Be] Close To You

Among the Carpenters’ catalog, the classic “(They Long to Be) Close to You” stands out as one of their most beloved hits.

Released in the 1970s, this love song portrays a woman pining for someone she adores.

Musically, it sits squarely in the realm of classic pop, with a brisk yet gentle melody.

The English lyrics flow smoothly, and the vocal range isn’t particularly wide, making it an easy song to sing.

You can certainly perform it in the style of the original, but a downbeat, whispery approach—like Billie Eilish’s—also sounds compelling.

Give it a try for inspiration.

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JumpVan Halen34rank/position

Van Halen – Jump (Official Music Video) [HD]

The moment the sparkling, shimmering synthesizer in the intro hits your ears, everyone can’t help but feel lifted—this is one of Van Halen’s most popular songs.

Released in 1984 as the lead single from the globally successful album “1984,” it became a massive hit, reaching No.

1 on the U.S.

Billboard chart.

Its catchy style—boldly incorporating gleaming keyboards into a hard guitar sound—perfectly symbolizes the 1980s and can be considered a signature Van Halen work that helped open up new horizons for rock.

The track is also widely used as an anthem at sporting events and is beloved by teams across the NBA, MLB, and NHL.

I Wanna Dance with SomebodyWhitney Houston35rank/position

Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Official 4K Video)

Known as “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” this song is one of Whitney Houston’s signature works.

Released in 1987, it became a massive hit, reaching number one in 14 countries.

The shimmering synthesizer melodies and Houston’s soaring vocals weave a magical harmony that still makes hearts leap today.

More than just a dance track, it expresses a universal longing for love and connection.

Play it at parties or reunions when you want to create joyful memories—it’s sure to get people of all generations excited.