Popular Western Music Artist Rankings [2026]

Wake Me UpAvicii8rank/position

Avicii – Wake Me Up (Official Video)

The music of Swedish artist Avicii, which shines like fireworks blooming in the summer night sky, captivated many with its innovative sound that fuses EDM and folk.

This work, themed around life’s journey and self-discovery, is marked by Aloe Blacc’s powerful vocals and the warm melodies woven by acoustic guitar.

Released in June 2013 and reaching number one on the charts in 22 countries, it asserted a presence like a grand firework launched into the music world.

It’s a song I highly recommend for your walk home from a summer festival or for those standing at a turning point in life.

Bohemian RhapsodyQueen9rank/position

Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody (Official Video Remastered)

This is a track that resonates like a grand, roughly six-minute tale, as if you’re watching a single film.

Created by Queen, the song’s structure is breathtaking as it whirls from a beautiful ballad to opera and then into fierce rock.

Yet behind its dramatic sound lies the anguished cry of a protagonist who regrets his sins and struggles against fate, tightening your chest with sorrow.

Released ahead of the landmark album A Night at the Opera in October 1975, it’s also known for its memorable use in the film Wayne’s World.

When you’re crushed by inescapable loneliness or despair, surrendering yourself to this vast sonic world will let emotions well up from the depths of your heart.

Love YourselfJustin Bieber10rank/position

Justin Bieber – Love Yourself (PURPOSE : The Movement)

This work, one of his signature songs, is a hit number from the album Purpose, released in November 2015.

With a simple arrangement centered on the sound of the guitar, the melody is remarkably easy to remember.

Since it’s sung in a whisper rather than belted out, some listeners may find it surprisingly easy to sing.

The song reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts and impressively topped the year-end chart for 2016.

High HopesPanic! At The Disco11rank/position

Panic! At The Disco – High Hopes (Official Video)

Panic! At The Disco continues to be loved beyond the bounds of emo and pop rock.

Showcasing Brendon Urie’s overwhelming vocal prowess, “High Hopes” is a masterpiece that celebrates the nobility of setting lofty goals and chasing your dreams.

Carrying his mother’s words in his heart, it conveys a strong determination to never give up and seize success even in difficult situations.

The song is included on the album “Pray for the Wicked,” released in June 2018, and drew attention through numerous tie-ins, such as Honda’s Accord commercial and the game NHL 19.

When you feel like you’re about to falter at work or in your studies, or on a decisive morning when you want to fire yourself up, listening to it will surely fill you with strength.

Be sure to check it out.

When You’re GoneAvril Lavigne12rank/position

Avril Lavigne – When You’re Gone (Official Video)

It powerfully sings of the unbearable loneliness after a loved one leaves and the growing heartache when you see the clothes left behind in the room.

This is a signature ballad by Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne.

Included on her 2007 album “The Best Damn Thing,” it begins with a piano melody and gradually builds as strings layer in, creating a sweeping progression that brings tears to your eyes.

In Japan, it drew attention as the song used in Toyota’s Alphard commercial, and overseas it was featured on MTV’s “The Hills.” With over 500 million views on YouTube, this track is one to listen to when you’re grieving a breakup or on nights when you want to let all your emotions out.

Her straightforward vocals truly resonate with the heart.

Tears in HeavenEric Clapton13rank/position

Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven (Official Video)

Eric Clapton, a living rock legend revered as the “God of the Guitar.” Released in 1992, this song drew worldwide acclaim as the theme for the film Rush.

It’s a ballad infused with deep sorrow and a prayer for healing, set within a gentle arrangement centered on acoustic guitar.

The work won three awards at the 35th Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year.

The version included on that year’s live album Unplugged is also widely known, and the album became a massive hit, selling over 26 million copies worldwide.

Its quietly comforting, beautiful melody is perfect for moments when you want to spend time in a calm, reflective mood.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis14rank/position

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)

Oasis, emblematic of the UK music scene in the ’90s and back in the global spotlight after announcing their reunion in August 2024.

Released as a single in February 1996 and selling over three million copies in the UK, this song is an eternal anthem in rock history.

It’s also famous for featuring Noel Gallagher on vocals instead of his brother Liam, who usually takes the mic.

The message, “Don’t look back in anger,” became a beacon of hope that helped soothe people’s grief after the incident in Manchester in May 2017.

At their miraculous 2025 reunion shows, it sparked massive sing-alongs once again.

The moment that opening piano rings out, it creates a moving atmosphere that makes everyone want to link arms and sing their hearts out together.