Popular Western music. Latest rankings [2026]

SeñoritaShawn Mendes & Camila Cabello85rank/position

Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello – Señorita

This exquisite duet, wrapped in a passionate Latin pop sound, portrays a summer romance.

Performed by Canadian artist Shawn Mendes and Cuban-American artist Camila Cabello, it was released in June 2019 and topped the charts in over 30 countries worldwide.

Sensual guitar riffs and the duo’s interwoven vocals skillfully convey the push-and-pull and passion of love.

The lyrics, which sing of the bittersweet feelings of summer nights and the allure of forbidden love, resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a perfect track for those who want to feel like they’re watching a romantic film or to set the mood for a special moment with someone important.

Basket CaseGreen Day86rank/position

Green Day – Basket Case [Official Music Video] (4K Upgrade)

When talking about 90s punk rock, you can’t leave out Green Day’s signature anthem—it’s a perfect pick for Western music fans looking to get the crowd going at year-end or New Year parties.

Released in 1994 as a single from the album Dookie, this emotional track was written about vocalist Billie Joe Armstrong’s own struggles with panic disorder and anxiety.

Its fast-paced pop-punk sound and irresistibly catchy melody are guaranteed to spark a massive sing-along at karaoke.

After thrilling Japanese rock fans again with their 2025 Japan tour, this timeless classic is one you should belt out at your year-end or New Year gatherings.

A Thousand MilesVanessa Carlton87rank/position

Vanessa Carlton – A Thousand Miles

A gem of a love song written with a single-minded desire to visit someone dear, far away.

Released in 2002 as the debut single of American artist Vanessa Carlton, the piece is memorable for its beautiful piano melody and crystalline vocals.

Its music video—featuring the innovative concept of playing the piano while moving through the city—garnered widespread attention and earned two Grammy nominations.

It was also used in a memorable scene in the film White Chicks and has since been featured in numerous movies and TV shows.

With a heartwarming melodic line and sincere emotion, this song resonates deeply with those in long-distance relationships or anyone who can’t easily see the one they love.

7 ringsAriana Grande88rank/position

Ariana Grande – 7 rings (Official Video)

Often hailed as the second coming of Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande boasts immense vocal prowess and a cute look that have made her extremely popular in Japan.

“7 rings,” included on her 2019 album Thank U, Next, is a song themed around friendship.

It celebrates using the money she earned herself to spoil herself and her friends, expressing women’s independence and self-assertion.

The song was a huge hit, topping the U.S.

charts as a single.

It was also used as fighter Ren Hiramoto’s entrance song at RIZIN 40, a mixed martial arts event.

You could say it’s a perfect track for female fighters striving to seize happiness through their own power.

With its pop vibe and powerful message, this anthem encourages everyone striving to live positively.

Love You Like a Love SongSelena Gomez & The Scene89rank/position

Selena Gomez & The Scene – Love You Like A Love Song

Formed in the United States in 2008, Selena Gomez & The Scene, a group under Selena Gomez’s alternate moniker, quickly gained immense popularity especially among young people despite their brief period of activity.

“Love You Like a Love Song,” the second single from their album When The Sun Goes Down, was released in 2011 and became a beloved track worldwide with its catchy melody and sweet atmosphere.

This song particularly resonates with women who feel the spark of a fresh romance or who are in the midst of a bittersweet crush.

Its lyrics, which carry a magical pull that makes you want to hit repeat, capture both the sweetness and the sting of unrequited love, evoking a sense of both transience and strength.

For women yearning for love yet troubled by feelings that may not be returned, Selena Gomez’s catchy refrain offers encouragement.

May the power of music lighten even a little of that heavy heart.

Love StoryTaylor Swift90rank/position

Taylor Swift – Love Story

Taylor Swift has continued to transcend the bounds of country music to reign as a global pop icon.

The stories she weaves captivate many listeners, and this work is a gem of a love song that takes Romeo and Juliet as its base and elevates the tragedy into a happy ending.

Released as a single in September 2008 and included on the acclaimed album Fearless, it became a cross-genre smash, peaking at No.

4 on the U.S.

charts.

A re-recorded version was also released in February 2021, and it continues to be loved across generations.

The image of two people overcoming opposition around them to be together makes it a perfect fit for the bright stage of a wedding.

The soaring chorus that depicts the proposal is sure to add a dramatic touch to scenes like the entrance or the cake cutting.

Castle On The HillEd Sheeran91rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Castle On The Hill [Official Music Video]

This song weaves together childhood memories of looking up at the castle on the hill in my hometown with the person I am today.

It paints Ed Sheeran’s youthful days in Framlingham, Suffolk, with shimmering guitar rock.

From the reckless teenage years spent with friends, to the present where everyone’s taken their own path, and the longing to return someday.

Blending nostalgia with hope, this track is perfect for reflecting on your roots as you welcome a new year.

Released in 2017 from the album ÷, it debuted at No.

2 on the UK charts.

It was also used in the trailer for the animated film Ferdinand, underscoring themes of adventure and growth.

A recommended song for anyone who wants to renew their feelings for home and take that first step into the new year.