Recommended Western music for men in their 60s: world classics and popular songs

Bohemian RhapsodyQueen

Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody (Official Video Remastered)

This work, known as one of the signature songs by the British rock band Queen, was released in November 1975 and became a worldwide hit.

The six-minute epic tapestry of sound—woven from Freddie Mercury’s overwhelming vocal prowess and the band’s superb musicianship—powerfully moves listeners.

Its structure, packed with diverse musical elements such as an opera-style section and hard rock developments, is truly innovative.

The lyrics pose profound philosophical questions, offering layers of depth that invite new interpretations with every listen.

It’s a song that resonates in your heart—whether you want to reminisce about your youthful days or when you find yourself at a crossroads in life.

Smoke on the WaterDeep Purple

Deep Purple – Smoke on the Water (LIVE 1974)

The song released in March 1972 by the British rock band Deep Purple is known as a classic that stands in rock history.

Its guitar riff, made up of just four notes, is beloved as a rite of passage for many guitarists, carrying a mysterious charm that conveys the soul of rock within its simplicity.

The lyrics, which depict a fire that broke out at a Frank Zappa concert, leave a vivid impression on listeners.

In 1973, it reached No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it a track that embodies the timeless power of rock, loved across generations.

I Need to Be in LoveCarpenters

I Need To Be In Love

A heart-stirring ballad by the Carpenters that sings of yearning for eternal love while confronting the harshness of reality.

It stands apart from purely sweet love songs, capturing delicate emotions swaying between ideal and reality, beautifully conveyed through crystalline vocals.

Released as a single from the May 1976 album “A Kind of Hush,” it topped the U.S.

Easy Listening chart.

In 1995, it was chosen as the ending theme for the Japanese TV drama “Miseinen,” drawing renewed attention.

It’s a gem of a melody that gently accompanies quiet nights spent in contemplation or moments of reflecting on memories with someone dear.

Hard To Say I’m SorryCHICAGO

Chicago – Hard To Say I’m Sorry (Official Music Video)

This is a signature work by Chicago, the American brass rock band, depicting the pain of heartbreak alongside an elegant piano melody.

Released in September 1982 and produced by David Foster, the piece elevates the rich musicality of the brass section into a pop-oriented arrangement, spending two consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.S.

singles chart.

It was used as the ending theme for the film “Summer Lovers” and became familiar in Japan as a commercial song for Osaka Gas and Toyota.

The lyrics portray a man who, after being told goodbye by his girlfriend, regrets his past behavior—feelings many listeners can surely relate to.

ThrillerMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Thriller (Official Video – Shortened Version)

A story about terrifying creatures that appear only in the dead of night, and the resolve to protect a loved one from those eerie monsters.

It’s a track from the album Thriller, released in November 1982 by Michael Jackson from the United States.

The music video is a film-like work running a full 14 minutes, memorable for its zombie dance.

It caused a sensation on MTV at the time and won eight awards at the 1984 Grammys.

Listening to it as Halloween approaches sends a chill down your spine while stirring a powerful determination to protect the one you love.

I Was Made For Lovin’ YouKISS

Kiss – I Was Made For Lovin’ You

A song by the American hard rock band KISS, released in March 1979.

Featured on the album Dynasty, the track is characterized by a disco-influenced catchy melody and heavy guitars.

Although it faced criticism from some fans at the time of release, it became a concert staple and achieved great commercial success.

It reached No.

11 on the U.S.

Billboard singles chart and No.

1 on Canada’s RPM National Singles Chart, and it was a Top 10 hit in many European countries as well.

Reflecting the musical trend of the era that fused disco and rock, the song conveys a message that people in love are perfectly suited for each other.

Dancing QueenABBA

ABBA – Dancing Queen (Official Music Video)

This is a song by ABBA, the Swedish pop group that defined the 1970s, which became a massive hit worldwide.

Released in August 1976, it reached number one in the United States.

Blending elements of disco and Europop, the song celebrates youth and freedom.

Through the image of a woman shining on the dance floor on a Friday night, it captures a universal appeal that lets everyone feel a thrilling, heart-lifting moment.

It was also featured in the 2008 film Mamma Mia!, and continues to be loved across generations.

Get together with friends and sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to lift your spirits.