Cool, popular Western hit songs that are highly regarded

ВодопадомГригорий Лепс

Григорий Лепс Водопадом (official video)

Grigory Leps is an artist from Russia.

While he’s not very well-known in Japan, he enjoys great popularity not only in Russia but also across Europe, especially in the Nordic countries.

His appeal, above all, lies in his “cool, rugged musical style,” don’t you think? He’s just incredibly rugged.

It’s so rugged you might think he’s stepped right out of The Godfather (lol).

His song “Водопадом” is a rock number that really highlights that rugged coolness.

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Ryo

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Iron ManBlack Sabbath

Iron Man (2012 Remaster)

This is a song by Black Sabbath, a band you could say laid the groundwork for 70s hard rock and heavy metal.

From the ominous intro, the heavy guitar riffs kick in, and the sound has a powerful low-end that’s really cool.

And the charismatic Ozzy Osbourne’s distinctive vocals are another big part of the appeal.

Smoke on the WaterDeep Purple

Deep Purple – Smoke On the Water (Official Music Video)

It’s no exaggeration to say that this is the song everyone listens to first when they buy an electric guitar—a signature track by Deep Purple.

The intro guitar riff is surprisingly simple and straightforward, but I think composing a song like this is actually quite difficult.

DENIAL IS A RIVERDoechii

Doechii – DENIAL IS A RIVER

This is a song released in 2024 by Dewitchy, an artist from the United States.

It’s included on the mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal and centers on an inner dialogue.

The lyrics, which depict emotional conflict with a touch of humor, are striking and deeply resonate with listeners.

The music video pays homage to 1990s sitcoms, offering a charming, nostalgic vibe.

Reflective in nature, the piece conveys a willingness to confront past experiences.

It’s a perfect track for moments when you want to face your inner self or take a fresh look at who you are.

Easier5 Seconds of Summer

5 Seconds of Summer – Easier

An electronic ballad from 5 Seconds of Summer.

The minimalist arrangement that has become their hallmark in recent years highlights the vocals with an alternative sound.

The music video is also distinctive: under lighting drenched in deep blue, vocalist Luke Hemmings sings passionately while his wrists are bound and he’s suspended, creating an atmosphere unlike anything we’ve seen before.

UnderdogAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – Underdog (Official Video)

Alicia Keys is an American singer-songwriter known for her husky voice.

While she initially released works rooted mainly in R&B and soul, she later shifted toward dance music and has now settled into heartfelt pop with strong messaging.

Her song “Underdog” exemplifies this message-driven approach, featuring powerful, encouraging lyrics aimed at low-income listeners.

The melody is incredibly cool, and the track is crafted with a serious acoustic sound.

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I’m an AlbatraozAronchupa

AronChupa, Little Sis Nora – I’m an Albatraoz | OFFICIAL VIDEO

With its vaguely nostalgic melody and up-tempo rhythm blending seamlessly, this intriguing track lets Nora Ekberg’s voice pleasantly seep deep into the brainstem.

Once you hear it, you’ll want to listen again and again—and it never gets old.