Ranking of Commercial Songs and Popular Tracks by Male Western Artists [2026]

What a Wonderful WorldLouis Armstrong15rank/position

Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World (Official Video)

A song by American jazz trumpeter Louis Armstrong, known by nicknames such as “Satchmo.” Created in the hope of world peace in the wake of the Vietnam War, it became a global mega-hit.

In Japan, it was used as the theme for Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation’s “Tokyo 2020 Believers” commercial, among many other ads, so many people are likely familiar with it.

His rich, resonant, and gentle voice truly embodies “What a Wonderful World.” This emotional number was also used as the finale during the extinguishing of the flame at the Closing Ceremony of the Tokyo 2021 Paralympics.

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Hoshino Takashi

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HonestyBilly Joel16rank/position

Billy Joel – Honesty (Official Video)

Billy Joel’s 1979 hit.

It was used in commercials for Nestlé, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, and Sony.

I remember hearing it for the first time in a Sony ad—the chorus was so poignant and beautiful that it gave me goosebumps.

Just the Way You AreBilly Joel17rank/position

Billy Joel – Just the Way You Are (Official Audio)

It’s a song Billy Joel wrote for his wife.

It was released as the first single from the album The Stranger.

It’s a lovely love song.

The melody is so beautiful it almost brings me to tears.

It was used in a Toyota commercial for the Estima.

Look What You’ve Done To MeBoz Scaggs18rank/position

Boz Scaggs – Look What You’ve Done To Me (Official Audio)

A number by Mr.

AOR, Boz Scaggs, that was used in Toyota’s Cresta.

It’s said to be a collaboration with the one and only David Foster.

It was also used as the theme song for the 1980 film Urban Cowboy, starring John Travolta.

Boz’s characteristically enveloping vocals make your heart skip a beat.

Open ArmsJourney19rank/position

Journey – Open Arms (Official Video – 1982)

It’s a 1982 track by Journey, the hugely famous American band known for the theme song of the movie “Umizaru,” and it was also used in a Nissan Elgrand commercial for a time.

Thanks to Steve Perry’s incredible vocals and the movie’s imagery, it’s the kind of song that unexpectedly brings a tear to your eye, isn’t it?

SmileTony Bennett20rank/position

Tony Bennett – Smile

It has been used in commercials such as Suntory “BOSS Silky Black,” Kirin Free, and SoftBank’s “iPhone 5.” The song originally appeared in Charlie Chaplin’s film Modern Times and had no lyrics at the time.

In the 1950s, English lyrics were added, and artists like Nat King Cole sang it, leading to a renewed appreciation of the song.

Can’t Smile Without YouBarry Manilow21rank/position

Barry Manilow – Can’t Smile Without You (Audio)

The Japanese title “Namida-iro no Hohoemi” (Tear-Colored Smile) is a very romantic love song.

This track, sung by American singer Barry Manilow, was originally by Neil Sedaka, so Manilow’s version is a cover.

It was used in Toyota’s “Prius α Hide-and-Seek” commercial.

The relaxed, shoulder-swaying arrangement is part of its charm.

Its pleasant tones might be perfect for leisurely moments, like tea time.

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Araki Jakkan

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