Western music ranking popular with men [2026]

Hard To Say I’m SorryCHICAGO43rank/position

Chicago – Hard To Say I’m Sorry (Official Music Video)

This is a signature work by Chicago, the American brass rock band, depicting the pain of heartbreak alongside an elegant piano melody.

Released in September 1982 and produced by David Foster, the piece elevates the rich musicality of the brass section into a pop-oriented arrangement, spending two consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.S.

singles chart.

It was used as the ending theme for the film “Summer Lovers” and became familiar in Japan as a commercial song for Osaka Gas and Toyota.

The lyrics portray a man who, after being told goodbye by his girlfriend, regrets his past behavior—feelings many listeners can surely relate to.

The Sound of SilenceSimon&Garfunkel44rank/position

Simon & Garfunkel – The Sounds of Silence (Audio)

A signature song by Simon & Garfunkel, beloved by people of all ages.

Released in 1966, it’s a moving number that skillfully captures loneliness and alienation through Paul Simon’s lyrics and the duo’s perfectly blended harmonies.

Although it was initially a commercial failure, an electric version was later produced and became a massive hit.

Featured across films, TV dramas, and other media, it’s a timeless classic that continues to be cherished by many.

For those in their 70s, it’s the perfect track to bring back memories of youth on a drive.

PerfectEd Sheeran45rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Perfect (Official Music Video)

This gem of a ballad, which sings of true love, was created by British artist Ed Sheeran, inspired by his relationship with his wife, Cherry Seaborn.

It delicately portrays everyday moments between lovers—like walking barefoot on the grass—and the unconditional affection that makes even a partner’s wind-tousled hair look beautiful.

Included on the March 2017 album ÷ and released as a single that September, the song also drew attention for its duet version with Beyoncé.

It’s a perfect choice for couples celebrating weddings or special anniversaries, and is recommended for anyone who wants to reaffirm their honest feelings for the one they love.

Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana46rank/position

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)

In the early 1990s, Nirvana—a rock band from Seattle that sparked a global grunge movement—took the world by storm.

One of their signature songs, which opens the album Nevermind, was released in September 1991.

Its striking “quiet-loud” dynamics build from a subdued verse into an explosive chorus, with powerful guitar riffs and drum beats that shake you to the core.

The vocal range isn’t overly wide, and it’s easy to sing along to the rhythm, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at karaoke.

As a timeless rock anthem beloved across generations, it continues to resonate with countless listeners today.

Say You Won’t Let GoJames Arthur47rank/position

James Arthur – Say You Won’t Let Go

James Arthur’s signature song, “Say You Won’t Let Go,” by the British singer-songwriter.

While the melody is mostly gentle, his vocals take on a shouty edge in the mid to high range, making it incredibly compelling to listen to.

It’s a breakup song that blends intensity with heartbreak.

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Never Gonna Give You UpRick Astley48rank/position

Rick Astley – Never Gonna Give You Up (Official Video) (4K Remaster)

Rick Astley, the England-born singer who debuted as a solo artist in 1987 and quickly captivated audiences worldwide, is known for his distinctive deep baritone that contrasts with his sweet looks.

Together with the producer team Stock Aitken Waterman, he created dance-pop sounds that remain beloved as emblematic music of the 1980s.

His debut album, Whenever You Need Somebody, achieved an astonishing 15 million in sales, propelling him into the ranks of top artists.

In 1989, he was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best New Artist, earning high acclaim around the world.

Since the 2000s, his smash hit Never Gonna Give You Up has regained the spotlight as the internet meme “Rickroll,” and in 2021 its music video surpassed 1 billion views.

Be sure to keep an eye on Rick, who continues to be active and is being rediscovered by younger generations.

I Don’t Want to Miss a ThingAerosmith49rank/position

Aerosmith – I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing (Official HD Video)

Speaking of ballads, isn’t “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” the definitive choice? This song was a mega-hit for Aerosmith and became incredibly popular worldwide.

Its biggest appeal has to be the vibe of the chorus, right? The tension builds gradually, and when the chorus hits, you’re wrapped in a sense of release—musically, it’s a superb piece.

Since it’s also the theme song for the movie Armageddon, even younger listeners are likely to know it.

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