Popular Western music. Latest rankings [2026]

FifteenTaylor Swift16rank/position

Taylor Swift – Fifteen

This ballad from the album Fearless, which sings about memories of being fifteen with a best friend, gently observes the growth of a girl who begins high school with a fluttering heart yet faces the disappointment of first love and her friend’s heartbreak.

The backstory—that Taylor Swift wrote the lyrics based on real experiences with her best friend Abigail, with Abigail’s permission—makes it even more moving.

Set to country-pop centered on acoustic guitar, its words unfold like reading aloud from a diary over a near album-long runtime of 4 minutes and 54 seconds, and each line really resonates.

Released as a single in August 2009, it also tied in with a project supporting teen charitable activities.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you feel nostalgic about your high school days or want to revisit the bittersweetness of youth.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis17rank/position

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)

Oasis, emblematic of the UK music scene in the ’90s and back in the global spotlight after announcing their reunion in August 2024.

Released as a single in February 1996 and selling over three million copies in the UK, this song is an eternal anthem in rock history.

It’s also famous for featuring Noel Gallagher on vocals instead of his brother Liam, who usually takes the mic.

The message, “Don’t look back in anger,” became a beacon of hope that helped soothe people’s grief after the incident in Manchester in May 2017.

At their miraculous 2025 reunion shows, it sparked massive sing-alongs once again.

The moment that opening piano rings out, it creates a moving atmosphere that makes everyone want to link arms and sing their hearts out together.

One Call AwayCharlie Puth18rank/position

Charlie Puth – One Call Away [Official Video]

When you think of someone dear who’s far away, a warm melody that feels like it’s by your side begins to resonate.

Sung by Charlie Puth, who continues to churn out global hits with his genius songwriting sense, this track is a heartwarming pop-soul ballad with touches of gospel.

Included on the album Nine Track Mind and released in August 2015, it became a hit that peaked at No.

12 on the U.S.

Billboard chart.

The lyrics—“Even without Superman, you’ve got me”—leave an impression with their reassuring, hero-like kindness.

It’s a perfect song for couples who can’t meet in person on Valentine’s Day or for two people who want to reaffirm their deep bond, so try sending your feelings along with some sweet chocolate!

One ThingOne Direction19rank/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.

What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction20rank/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?