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!

[Captivating] A Collection of Western Songs with Cool Intros [2026] (41–50)

SprinterCentral Cee x Dave

Central Cee x Dave – Sprinter [Music Video]

SprinterCentral Cee x Dave

A collaboration track by two geniuses leading the UK rap scene, Dave and Central Cee.

Since their debuts, both have delivered multiple hit songs, and this team-up is a long-awaited project for fans.

The track appears on the EP “Split Decision,” released on June 1, 2023, and it stormed charts around the world upon release.

Opening with an attention-grabbing, Latin-tinged guitar riff, the intro hints at a polished sound that showcases their vivid verses.

The lyrics candidly depict the joy and emptiness that success brings, along with inner conflicts, striking deep at the listener’s heart.

Behind the opulent world they portray, the harsh realities they face are laid bare with overwhelming force.

It’s an authentic story they can tell precisely because their lifestyles have changed so dramatically.

Lose yourself in the luxurious atmosphere while tuning in to lyrics that question the very essence of life.

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Dance the NightDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album) [Official Music Video]

Dance the NightDua Lipa

The moment the dazzling, 70s disco-style string intro bursts in, listeners are instantly drawn into Dua Lipa’s music! Released as the lead single from the soundtrack Barbie the Album for the 2023 film Barbie, it became one of the year’s biggest hits.

Blending pop and disco elements, the track celebrates the joy of dancing the night away and self-expression—perfect for amping up any party.

The lyrics contrast inner emotions with outward sparkle, portraying a determined spirit that stands strong in the face of challenges.

With its bright, uplifting message, this song is sure to give listeners energy and courage.

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Moves Like Jagger ft. Christina AguileraMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Moves Like Jagger ft. Christina Aguilera (Official Music Video) ft. Christina Aguilera

Moves Like Jagger ft. Christina AguileraMaroon 5

Maroon 5 is a band with worldwide popularity.

They’re known for a sound that blends various genres and have produced many classic songs.

Among their works, a track with an especially cool intro is “Moves Like Jagger ft.

Christina Aguilera.” The whistling and funky guitar in the intro are striking, and they instantly convey the vibe of the song.

Despite its stylish melody, the intro alone draws you in with a catchy hook—that’s Maroon 5 at their best.

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Smooth OperatorSade

Sade – Smooth Operator – Official – 1984

Smooth OperatorSade

Sade is a UK band known as a quintessential presence in adult contemporary music.

With their distinctive sound, they were highly active from their 1984 debut through the 2000s and have received immense acclaim worldwide.

Smooth Operator is one of their albums, and its title track was released as a single and gained popularity.

The piece is notable for its adult contemporary intro with a Latin-flavored feel.

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AngryThe Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones – Angry (Official Music Video)

AngryThe Rolling Stones

The legendary British rock band The Rolling Stones have released their first new song in about three years, “Angry,” the lead single from the album Hackney Diamonds.

Its intro, featuring a guitar riff in open G tuning and a distorted lead guitar tone, is simple yet instantly grabs the listener.

The lyrics portray the agony and conflict of a relationship on the verge of collapse while still conveying affection for the other person.

Created by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, “Angry” is supreme rock ’n’ roll born from a career spanning more than half a century.

Now in their 80s, their overwhelming energy is something we’d all love to tap into.

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