Oldies of Western Music: Popular Rankings [2026]

To Be With YouMr. BIG57rank/position

Mr. Big – To Be With You 4K Video

Mr.

Big’s second album, Lean Into It, drew attention in their home country, the United States.

The single released from that album was To Be With You, a song about Eric Martin’s youthful romance.

Although Mr.

Big disbanded once in 2002, they reunited in 2009.

Despite sad news such as drummer Pat Torpey’s passing due to Parkinson’s disease, they have continued their activities with support members.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Like A VirginMadonna58rank/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.

Blue MondayNew Order59rank/position

New Order – Blue Monday (Official Lyric Video)

Overcoming the tragedy of their predecessor band and steering toward the dance floor, the British rock band New Order released this track in March 1983.

A groundbreaking dance tune running over seven minutes, it revolutionized the club scene.

In contrast to its mechanical, cool beat, the lyrics portray confusion and heartache over mistreatment by someone they once trusted.

Some may remember it being used in a Sunkist commercial.

Often hailed as a bridge between ’70s disco and ’90s house, this song seeps deep into the heart on nights when you want to be alone with your thoughts, its stylish, melancholic sound resonating all the more.

Waiting for a Girl Like YouForeigner60rank/position

Waiting for a Girl like You

This is a slow number from Foreigner, a US-UK mixed rock band of veteran musicians, included on their 1981 album 4.

Lou Gramm, whose soulful voice evokes the great British rock vocalist Paul Rodgers, sings with restraint as he delivers lyrics about feeling destined to meet a woman who has finally appeared before him and asking to confirm that feeling.

In the chorus, his emotional shouts are incredibly powerful, shaking the listener’s feelings to the core.

The floating, atmospheric sound that makes effective use of synthesizers is very characteristic of the 1980s, and the way it creates a sharp contrast with Lou’s vocals shows the band’s keen sense of style.

That’s The Way (I Like It)KC and The Sunshine Band61rank/position

That’s the Way (I Like It) (2004 Remaster)

A track marked by soulful vocals and an upbeat rhythm.

It’s a signature work by the American disco-funk band KC and the Sunshine Band.

Released in 1975, it became a worldwide smash hit, reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Featuring a bright horn section and catchy phrases, it naturally draws listeners onto the dance floor.

While the lyrics may at first seem sexual, they’re said to actually emphasize the importance of communication in relationships.

Yuzo Gucci’s cover is also well known, and the song is loved across generations in Japan.

It’s the perfect track for when you’re in the mood to ride a lively groove and dance the night away.

Crazy TrainOzzy Osbourne62rank/position

Ozzy Osbourne Crazy Train(Ozzfest 2010)

When it comes to Black Sabbath, the band is often regarded as the origin of heavy metal.

After leaving Black Sabbath, vocalist Ozzy Osbourne formed his own band and released the album “Blizzard of Ozz” in 1980.

The track “Crazy Train” from this album is not only one of his signature songs, but also a classic packed with the appeal of hard rock, including its guitar solo.

IrisGoo Goo Dolls63rank/position

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris [Official Music Video] [4K Remaster]

A heart-stirring rock ballad born from the story of the film City of Angels.

Released by America’s Goo Goo Dolls in April 1998, this song richly conveys the aching feelings of an angel who has fallen in love with a human.

Its beautiful melody weaves together a gentle gaze toward people striving to live and the protagonist’s resolve to seek love, even at the cost of eternal life.

Included on the band’s album Dizzy Up the Girl, the track became a massive hit, spending 18 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart.

It’s a recommended listen for those who want to reflect deeply on the determination to change oneself for a loved one, as well as the doubt and resolve that come at life’s crossroads.