Top Western Music Rankings by Generation: Popular Picks for People in Their 40s

Your LoveThe Outfield50rank/position

The Outfield – Your Love (Official HD Video)

Included on the 1985 album “Play Deep.” A four-piece rock band from London that debuted in 1985.

The track features a mid-tempo, gently flowing rhythm and prominent guitar tones, yet retains a catchy pop sensibility—quite memorable.

The vocalist’s high tenor also adds a refreshing touch.

Family AffairMary J Blige51rank/position

Mary J. Blige – Family Affair (Official Music Video)

This is an uplifting anthem by Mary J.

Blige, a popular artist known for her strongly black music–influenced style that epitomizes 90s R&B.

With its rousing energy, it’s the kind of song you’ll want to sing at karaoke, and it feels approachable for women in their 30s.

U Can’t Touch ThisMC Hammer52rank/position

M.C. Hammer – U Can’t Touch This

MC Hammer’s signature song “U Can’t Touch This” was a huge hit in Japan as well.

Not only the track but also the dance was something everyone copied at the time.

In particular, people now in their 40s might feel nostalgic and get excited about things like Takaaki Ishibashi of Tunnels appearing as “MC Taka” together with MC Hammer himself.

No oneAlicia Keys53rank/position

Alicia Keys – No One (Official Music Video)

It’s a song about the joy of meeting someone you can love forever, speaking of a strong bond that no one can tear apart.

The endlessly soaring vocals are a pleasure to listen to.

Try listening to it with your own feelings—whether you’re in happy days with him or in the throes of unrequited love.

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire54rank/position

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

Wouldn’t your heart leap if you could sing one of the iconic hits of the 1970s at karaoke? Earth, Wind & Fire’s signature song is a celebratory track that sings of love and joy.

With its catchy melody and rhythm, it’s been cherished for years at weddings and family gatherings.

Released in 1978, it reached No.

1 on the U.S.

R&B chart.

It has continued to be used in films, TV shows, and commercials, and in 2021 it was certified 6x Platinum by the RIAA.

Every year on September 21, it trends on social media.

The harmony woven by Philip Bailey’s soaring highs and Maurice White’s rich lows is breathtaking.

It’s perfect for getting a big crowd fired up.

More than wordsExtreme55rank/position

Extreme – More Than Words (Official Music Video)

Speaking of Extreme, it’s “More Than Words.” Even if you don’t know the band, many people have probably heard this song.

The guitar intro and gentle melody are so soothing that you’ll want to keep listening forever—it’s a lovely love song.

All I Want for Christmas Is YouMariah Carey56rank/position

Mariah Carey – All I Want For Christmas Is You (Official Video)

This song, which everyone around the world has heard at least once, was released in 1994 from the album “Merry Christmas.” It’s a love song that expresses pure feelings for a sweetheart, proclaiming that more than presents or decorations, nothing brings greater happiness than simply having you by my side.

While the sound of bells and backing vocals create a festive Christmas exhilaration, at the heart of the lyrics is a straightforward devotion to a loved one.

Twenty-five years after its release, it reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time in 2019 and has continued to return to the top every year since.

In Japan, it was used as the theme song for the 1994 Fuji TV drama “29-sai no Christmas,” and has become a seasonal staple that is always heard during the holidays.

It’s a perfect song to play on that special night with someone important.