Popular Western Music Artist Rankings [2026]

Counting StarsOneRepublic57rank/position

OneRepublic – Counting Stars

Have you ever struggled with the gap between ideal and reality, spending sleepless nights anxious about the future? In those moments, this song gently frees the heart from materialistic values, whispering, “Instead of counting money, why not count the stars?” Created by the American band OneRepublic, it offers courage with a message that even the moments that knock you down are proof that you’re alive.

Included on their 2013 album Native and reaching number one on the UK charts, the song was also featured in the film Earth to Echo.

When daily life threatens to make you lose sight of your dreams, simply shifting your focus to what truly matters can make your heart feel a little lighter, don’t you think?

JumpVan Halen58rank/position

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

The moment that full-on ’80s synthesizer phrase from the intro hits your ears, you feel like jumping up just as the title suggests! Released in 1984, it was a massive hit that topped the U.S.

Billboard chart.

It’s an ambitious work that showcased Van Halen’s new direction; the bold blend of catchy keyboards with their hard guitar sound makes it a definitive anthem of the ’80s.

Combined with David Lee Roth’s exuberant vocals, it’s a track that gives you a burst of energy just by listening.

In 2019, it was featured in a Suntory All-Free commercial, and it continues to be loved by many to this day.

It’s also used as the walk-up song for Tokyo Yakult Swallows pitcher Koshiro Yoshimura, instantly firing up the stadium atmosphere.

I Don’t Want to Miss a ThingAerosmith59rank/position

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

When it comes to a majestic rock ballad worthy of the moment you vow eternal love, this has to be the one.

Its lyrics, which describe gazing at a loved one’s sleeping face and not wanting to miss a single second, express a deep affection that’s perfect for weddings.

Aerosmith’s powerful vocals and the dramatic melody will sweep the venue into a wave of emotion.

Created as the theme song for the 1998 film Armageddon, the track became the band’s first No.

1 on the U.S.

singles chart and held the top spot for four consecutive weeks.

It was a global smash at the time and remains a classic among classics.

Why not play it during key moments celebrating the couple’s new beginning, such as the bride and groom’s entrance or the highlight of the cake cutting?

I Will Always Love YouWhitney Houston60rank/position

Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You (Official 4K Video)

A masterpiece ballad that moved the world as the theme song for the 1992 film The Bodyguard.

Whitney Houston’s overwhelming vocal prowess powerfully stirs the listener’s heart.

The song portrays a poignant yet profound love—stepping back so as not to stand in the way of the one you love.

Even apart, the wish for the other’s happiness resounds through her powerful voice.

In fact, it’s a cover of Dolly Parton’s country song, included on The Bodyguard album, and it set a record by topping the U.S.

singles chart for 14 consecutive weeks.

Immerse yourself in it when you’ve experienced a farewell with someone dear or on a night when you want a voice that truly touches the heart.

If I Ain’t Got YouAlicia Keys61rank/position

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Official HD Video)

Singer-songwriter Alicia Keys captivates the world with overwhelming expressiveness, weaving classical elements into R&B and soul.

Featured on her 2003 masterpiece The Diary of Alicia Keys and released as a single in February 2004, this song is a ballad that symbolizes her career.

Alongside a beautiful piano melody, its lyrics emphasize the preciousness of having a loved one by your side over wealth and fame.

It’s said to have been written in response to Aaliyah’s tragic accident, and it never fails to move listeners.

In 2023, an orchestral version drew attention when it was featured in Netflix’s Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.

It’s a perfect choice for moments when you want to feel a deep bond with someone special, and for scenes like weddings.

Top Of The WorldCarpenters62rank/position

Top Of The World

Many of you may remember it as the opening theme of the 1995 TV drama “Miseinen.” This classic by the American sibling duo the Carpenters is a song that brightens your heart just by listening.

Originally included on their 1972 album “A Song for You,” it was released as a single the following year and rose to No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

Filled with love and a blissful feeling as if standing atop the world, it resonates in your chest through Karen Carpenter’s crystal-clear voice.

Possessing a magical charm that makes the ordinary sparkle, the song was also used in the 2003 drama “Beginner.” It’s a perfect track for lifting your spirits in the morning or for a calm, leisurely afternoon.

Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles63rank/position

Eagles – Hotel California (Live 1977) (Official Video) [HD]

The Eagles are a legendary country rock band that revolutionized the American music scene.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1971, they captivated the world with a unique sound that fused country, folk, pop, and more.

From the outset they produced numerous hits, winning a Grammy in 1975 for One of These Nights.

Their 1976 album Hotel California sold over 32 million copies worldwide and became their signature work.

Despite lineup changes and a breakup, they reunited in 1994.

With six Grammy wins and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, they have left a brilliant legacy.

Their powerful, beautifully harmonized vocals and polished musicianship are recommended not only for rock fans but for anyone seeking comfortable, satisfying music.