Popular Western music. Latest rankings [2026]

Someone You LovedLewis Capaldi11rank/position

Lewis Capaldi – Someone You Loved

Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi is an artist who has drawn worldwide attention for his deep emotional expression and husky vocals.

Released in November 2018, this work is a signature ballad included on his album “Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent.” Centered on themes of loss and loneliness after losing a loved one, it’s said he spent six months creating it, channeling his feelings for his late grandmother.

The music video was produced in collaboration with the organ donation charity Live Life Give Life and drew attention for featuring actor Peter Capaldi.

It’s a moving, tender song that’s perfect for those who want to deliver a heartfelt performance at karaoke—be sure to check it out.

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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When You’re GoneAvril Lavigne13rank/position

Avril Lavigne – When You’re Gone (Official Video)

It powerfully sings of the unbearable loneliness after a loved one leaves and the growing heartache when you see the clothes left behind in the room.

This is a signature ballad by Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne.

Included on her 2007 album “The Best Damn Thing,” it begins with a piano melody and gradually builds as strings layer in, creating a sweeping progression that brings tears to your eyes.

In Japan, it drew attention as the song used in Toyota’s Alphard commercial, and overseas it was featured on MTV’s “The Hills.” With over 500 million views on YouTube, this track is one to listen to when you’re grieving a breakup or on nights when you want to let all your emotions out.

Her straightforward vocals truly resonate with the heart.

Someone Like YouAdele14rank/position

Adele – Someone Like You (Official Music Video)

It’s a moving ballad that has the power to transform the atmosphere with just its quietly resonant piano intro.

This song by the British singer-songwriter Adele, included on her album 21 and released as a single in 2011, is known for its heartfelt portrayal of the turmoil between lingering attachment and heartfelt blessings after learning that a former lover has married someone new.

It’s also famous for having been written in just two days, based on her real-life experience.

It topped the charts in 19 countries and won Best Pop Solo Performance at the 54th Grammy Awards.

With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy to sing with emotion even if you’re not confident in your English pronunciation.

Choose it for nights when you want to cleanse the pain of heartbreak or captivate listeners with a voice that resonates deeply.

Time After TimeCyndi Lauper15rank/position

Cyndi Lauper – Time After Time (Official HD Video)

Singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper, who continues to captivate the world with her distinctive fashion and four-octave voice.

This work is a classic ballad filled with her kindness.

Its lyrics, which portray deep love and bonds that keep watching over someone across distance and time, resonate in the heart.

Included on the 1983 album “She’s So Unusual,” it reached No.

1 in the U.S.

the following year as a single.

It’s a masterpiece featured in numerous films and TV shows, and even covered by Miles Davis.

A warm song that supports you when you’re unsure—why not give it as a gift when you want to express gratitude to your mother?