Popular Western music. Latest rankings [2026]

Shape of YouEd Sheeran8rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

“Shape of You” has a strong R&B vibe that evokes an apparel shop atmosphere.

The tempo isn’t too fast, so even if you’re not confident in English, you can calmly follow the lyrics while singing.

If you carefully pick up each phrase, you shouldn’t fall out of rhythm.

However, because the melody flows continuously, finding good spots to breathe might be tricky.

The range isn’t very high, so try not to release all your air at once—let it out little by little to control your breath and make it easier to sing.

In the latter half, there are ad-lib sections that add excitement, so if you’re using a scoring feature, it’s a good idea to check which line is the main melody.

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Kubota Mami

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Tears in HeavenEric Clapton9rank/position

Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven (Official Video)

Eric Clapton, a living rock legend revered as the “God of the Guitar.” Released in 1992, this song drew worldwide acclaim as the theme for the film Rush.

It’s a ballad infused with deep sorrow and a prayer for healing, set within a gentle arrangement centered on acoustic guitar.

The work won three awards at the 35th Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year.

The version included on that year’s live album Unplugged is also widely known, and the album became a massive hit, selling over 26 million copies worldwide.

Its quietly comforting, beautiful melody is perfect for moments when you want to spend time in a calm, reflective mood.

Thinking Out LoudEd Sheeran10rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud (Official Music Video)

In February, when the romantic mood is in the air, don’t you find yourself wanting to listen to heartwarming love songs? At times like that, I recommend this track from Ed Sheeran’s 2014 album “×.” Set to the warm melodies of blue-eyed soul, it’s a sublime ballad in which he vows to love unchanged even at 70.

Its universal lyrics moved many people and achieved the remarkable feat of winning Song of the Year at the 2016 Grammys.

His elegant dancing in the music video is also a must-see.

This beloved classic remains a wedding staple—perfect for sweet moments spent with someone special, so be sure to give it a listen.

One ThingOne Direction11rank/position

One Direction – One Thing

One Direction, the boy band that enjoyed worldwide popularity in the 2010s, is a familiar group in Japan as well.

Although they are currently on hiatus, the many masterpieces they left behind continue to be loved.

Among their works, a pop tune from their debut album Up All Night powerfully sings about the impulse of unrequited love.

It sets a straightforward, heartfelt longing—being crazy about you and aching for “that one thing”—to sparkling guitar sounds and a fast-paced, exhilarating melody.

Released on CD in the UK in February 2012, the track also ranked high on the charts.

When your feelings for someone become unstoppable, listening to it will give you the courage to affirm those emotions with strength.

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys12rank/position

Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (Official HD Video)

A signature song by the Backstreet Boys, a classic bittersweet and romantic ballad.

It’s definitely a song you want a man to sing! Because the harmony and chorus parts are so prominent, the key is to firmly learn the main melody.

In the call-and-response section in the latter half, I’m not sure which part karaoke scoring recognizes, but memorizing both parts will likely help when you sing with someone else.

Also, my vocal training student sang it, and there aren’t any particularly difficult pronunciations.

You can just read the lyrics straightforwardly.

However, since there are entrances on the off-beat rather than the downbeat and some distinctive rhythms, it’s a good idea to run through the song once.

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Kubota Mami

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What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction13rank/position

One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful (Official Video)

A boys’ group that leapt from the UK to the world, One Direction delivers the sweetest love song.

With lyrics that wholeheartedly affirm someone who lacks self-confidence—telling them “You’re beautiful just the way you are”—and a refreshing pop sound, just listening to it makes you feel happy! Released in September 2011 as their debut single, this track is also included on the classic album Up All Night and won Best British Single at the 2012 BRIT Awards.

It’s a song packed with charm as sweet as dessert.

Why not send it along with a White Day gift to someone special, with the message that you like them?

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson14rank/position

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Here’s a superb funk number that makes you want to stride confidently through the summer city.

Produced by UK native Mark Ronson in collaboration with Bruno Mars, this track portrays the urban lifestyle of a self-assured protagonist.

The lyrics express a strong sense of self-affirmation—“I’m hot as can be”—and a commitment to refined fashion, uplifting anyone who listens.

Released in November 2014 as the lead single from the album Uptown Special, it set an astonishing record by holding the No.

1 spot on the U.S.

charts for 14 consecutive weeks.

Play it on a summer drive or at a party with friends, and it will instantly brighten the atmosphere.