Recommended Western music for men in their 30s: world classics and popular songs

More Than WordsExtreme

Extreme – More Than Words (Official Music Video)

A ballad by Boston-born Extreme, featuring Gary Cherone—who later also found success with Van Halen—released at the height of the MTV Unplugged boom.

Its gentle, acoustic guitar tones made a memorable impression, and the song became a major hit in the United States.

Sweet Child O’ MineGuns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses – Sweet Child O’ Mine (Official Music Video)

It’s a breezy, upbeat smash hit released by Guns N’ Roses, who built an era with their back-to-basics rock sound.

The song opens with the signature guitar phrase by Slash, and over a simple backing track, Axl Rose’s distinctive vocals ring out.

HonestlyHarem Scarem

Harem Scarem – Honestly

It’s a love song by the Canadian band Harem Scarem.

It begins quietly with piano and gradually builds into a passionate, dramatic development.

Harry Hess’s husky, heartfelt, soaring vocals are outstanding, and the guitar remains melodious throughout, resulting in a beautifully crafted piece.

Thank You For The LoveJohn Sykes

John Sykes – Thank You For The Love

This song is included on the ballad album by the princely guitarist John Sykes, who first made his mark with bands like Whitesnake and then pursued a solo career.

His mellow yet powerful vocals and the wide, guitar-driven vibrato give it a moving finish.

All the WayJourney

Journey – All the Way (Live in Las Vegas – 2000)

This is a song by Journey, a band known for their refreshing love ballads.

With Steve Augeri’s vocals—evocative of his predecessor—and Neal Schon’s melodic guitar, it’s a superbly crafted track.

Nothing But LoveMr. BIG

Mr. Big – Nothing But Love (MV)

This is a song by Mr.

Big, a highly skilled band known for their striking arrangements featuring string tones.

Backed by a refreshingly bright chorus sound, Eric Martin’s heartfelt vocals make for a wonderfully moving result.

I Was Born To Love YouQueen

Queen – I Was Born To Love You (Official Video)

It’s a song by Queen, whose use in Japanese dramas is well known, showcasing Freddie Mercury’s clear, soaring vocals.

Brian May’s classical arrangement, featuring intricate guitar orchestration, is grand and beautifully crafted.