Oldies of Western Music: Popular Rankings [2026]

Tears in HeavenEric Clapton50rank/position

Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven (Official Video)

Eric Clapton, revered worldwide by musicians and often called the “God of the Guitar,” crafted this gem of a ballad out of the most painful experience of his life.

In the wake of the sudden tragedy in 1991—the immeasurable sorrow of saying goodbye to his beloved son—he wrote it while sending his thoughts to the child in heaven, as a way to endure the grief.

Carried by gentle acoustic guitar, his voice asks whether his son will remember him when they meet again, a question that tugs at the listener’s heartstrings.

Created as the theme song for the film Rush, its performance on the live album Unplugged drew global acclaim.

A deeply personal sorrow was transformed into a universal song of healing and hope—an undeniably moving track that stands as one of the defining songs of the 1990s.

Hot StuffDonna Summer51rank/position

Hot Stuff

Donna Summer, the legendary female singer known as the “Queen of Disco.” Her disco music is strongly influenced by soul and R&B, with a soulful arrangement on every track.

Among her works, the most famous is “Hot Stuff.” Released in 1979, it has continued to be used widely across various media to this day.

At Universal Studios Japan’s “Monster Rock and Roll Show,” the graveyard groupies Hip and Hop perform this song, so even younger audiences may find it familiar.

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Don’t SpeakNo Doubt52rank/position

No Doubt – Don’t Speak (Official 4K Music Video)

This song, which portrays the pain of a relationship’s end, is known as one of the defining international hits of the 1990s.

Featured on No Doubt’s 1995 album Tragic Kingdom, the track captured many listeners’ hearts with Gwen Stefani’s stirring vocals and relatable lyrics.

When it was released as a single in April 1996, it became the most-played song on American radio and achieved high positions on various charts.

It was also a major international hit, reaching number one in many countries, including the United Kingdom and Australia.

Quiet yet powerful in its expression of heartbreak, the song continues to be beloved as an anthem that speaks for those who have gone through similar experiences.

Take My Breath AwayBerlin53rank/position

Berlin – Take My Breath Away (Official Video – Top Gun)

This is the award-winning ballad that served as the love theme for the 1986 blockbuster film Top Gun, honored with an Academy Award.

It was performed by the American band Berlin, with the composition handled by disco maestro Giorgio Moroder.

Teri Nunn’s passionate, soulful vocals leave a strong impression.

The bittersweet yet burning emotions of falling in love—so overwhelming you can hardly breathe—resonate warmly alongside the majestic synthesizer tones.

Released in June 1986, the song reached No.

1 on the U.S.

singles chart.

It’s sure to make a romantic evening with someone special even more dramatic.

Song 2Blur54rank/position

Blur – Song 2 (Official Music Video)

The devastatingly powerful guitar sound unleashed by Blur, emblematic of British Britpop, sent shockwaves through the 1997 music scene.

Upending their previously English pop sensibilities, the band delivered an experimental piece that fused a raw, US indie rock–inspired sound with spontaneous, meaning-free lyrics—and, ironically, it became their biggest hit.

Born from the album “Blur,” the track’s impulsive creation—reportedly completed in just a few dozen minutes—helped open up a new frontier for the band.

Widely featured in films and video games, its explosive energy also electrifies crowds at sporting events.

It’s truly the perfect song for moments when you want to unleash your energy and get your heart racing.

AngelAerosmith55rank/position

Aerosmith – Angel (Official Music Video)

Aerosmith is a rock band that boasts high name recognition in Japan.

Even people in their teens or twenties have probably at least heard the name.

They’ve produced numerous classics, including the theme song for the movie Armageddon, but among them, a number that’s especially perfect for autumn and highly recommended is Angel.

It’s a rock ballad: while it’s wrapped in a bright melody, it’s characterized by a sense of fragility and poignancy.

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Like A VirginMadonna56rank/position

Madonna – Like A Virgin (Official Video)

An iconic song by the queen of ’80s pop, centered on themes of purity and rebirth.

It captures the sensation of being reborn through new love, expressed with Madonna’s signature sexy and provocative vocals.

The sophisticated dance sound, produced by Nile Rodgers, took the club scene by storm at the time.

Released in November 1984 as the lead single from the album Like a Virgin, it spent six consecutive weeks at No.

1 in the U.S.

Her shocking performance at the MTV Video Music Awards is still talked about today.

It’s recommended for those who want to savor the thrill of new romance or immerse themselves in the vibe of ’80s disco.