Lovely Western music

[Captivating] A Collection of Western Songs with Cool Intros [2026]

Music writer / guitarist / Certified web writing practitionerHoshino Takashi
Drawing on over 30 years of experience with guitars and bands since my high school days, I specialize in music-related articles and have handled many feature pieces to date. While my tastes lean toward genres like hard rock and heavy metal since I first picked up the guitar, I make a point of listening to a wide range of styles, both Japanese and Western, on a daily basis. I began working as a freelance writer in 2018. I hold a Web Writing Practical Certification, and in addition to writing, I’m also studying video editing. In my private life, I’m raising an elementary school child and stay active while supporting their extracurriculars, such as parkour and dance.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

What makes a song “good” varies from listener to listener, but many music lovers pay particular attention to how much the intro—the gateway into the track—pulls them in.

When we think of classic hits from years past, it’s often the memorable intro phrases that pop into our heads first, isn’t it?

In this article, we’ve rounded up famous intros from Western music that captivate listeners right from the start.

Articles like this tend to focus only on golden oldies, but here we’ve highlighted more recent releases across genres in the first half, and introduced classic masterpieces in the latter half and beyond, so listeners of all generations can enjoy it!

[Grabs Your Heart] A Collection of Western Songs with Cool Intros [2026] (61–70)

Take You DownChris Brown

Chris Brown – Take You Down (Official HD Video)

Take You DownChris Brown

Singer-songwriter Chris Brown has been a mainstay in the US R&B scene for many years.

If you’re into R&B, you probably already know him.

He’s created numerous classics over the years, and one track with an especially cool intro is Take You Down.

It opens with passionate guitar tones and instantly pulls you into a world that sings of fiery romance.

If you like a sexy, stylish vibe, this is a must-check track!

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Shit, Damn, MotherfuckerD’Angelo

D’Angelo “Shit, Damn, Motherfucker” Live at Montreux 2000

Shit, Damn, MotherfuckerD'Angelo

D’Angelo is an American singer-songwriter known as a pioneer of “neo-soul,” a genre rooted in R&B and soul that blends funk, jazz, and hip-hop.

He was a standout artist in the 1990s, and his talent was highly regarded by top-tier musicians around the world.

“Shit, Damn, Motherfucker” is one of his signature songs, notable for its lyrics filled with broadcast-prohibited words.

This time, we’ve picked a live version.

The intro is striking, featuring a stylish neo-soul groove with a performance that evokes hard rock.

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Smooth ft. Rob ThomasSantana

Santana – Smooth (Official Video) ft. Rob Thomas

Smooth ft. Rob ThomasSantana

Guitarist Santana, who has gained worldwide popularity for his uniquely expressive guitar technique, is also hugely popular in Japan.

His hit song “Smooth ft.

Rob Thomas,” a collaboration with the acclaimed artist Rob Thomas, was released in 1999.

The intro, infused with a Latin flavor, is especially captivating, so if you enjoy styles like flamenco, bolero, or rumba, be sure to give it a listen.

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WITHOUT YOUTrippie Redd

Trippie Redd – WITHOUT YOU (Official Visualizer)

WITHOUT YOUTrippie Redd

Trippie Redd is a young rapper from the United States with a promising future.

He made his debut after meeting Lil Wop, and in addition to rapping, he’s also active as a singer-songwriter.

His new track is “WITHOUT YOU.” This piece has a strong rock influence, blending digital sounds with classic rock structures to create a distinctive atmosphere.

Be sure to pay attention to the distorted guitar in the intro!

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Havana ft. Young ThugCamila Cabello

Camila Cabello – Havana (Audio) ft. Young Thug

Havana ft. Young ThugCamila Cabello

Camila Cabello’s classic hit “Havana” featuring Young Thug.

After leaving the girl group Fifth Harmony, Camila Cabello pursued a solo career, and the success of this song became the catalyst for her to gain even more fame than during her Fifth Harmony days.

The intro of the track strongly reflects the characteristics of Latin music, which are part of her roots.

The tango-style piano meshes exquisitely with the programmed sounds, and when her vocals come in, the transition is remarkably smooth.

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