Western songs used in commercials — tear-jerking classics and popular tracks
“What was that song from the commercial I saw ages ago again?” “I want to know the details of that song I heard in a recent commercial.” If you love music, you’ve probably had these thoughts at least once.
Since some commercials only air during a specific period, tracking them down can end up being more work than you’d expect.
In this article, we’re featuring a lineup of timeless Western hits used in both old and new commercials, all centered around the theme of ‘tear-jerkers.’
And ‘tear-jerkers’ doesn’t just mean ballads—enjoy a wide range of classics gathered from various angles, from hopeful, up-tempo pop to rock numbers steeped in melancholy.
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Western songs used in commercials – tear-jerking classics and popular tracks (11–20)
let It BeThe Beatles
You could say it needs no explanation—it’s a classic beloved around the world.
It’s one of the signature songs by the great rock band, the Beatles, released as a single in 1970.
Just seeing the title brings that familiar melody to mind for everyone.
How many people have been saved by the song’s message about being true to oneself? From Toshiba’s IC stereo “Boston” commercial to the present day, it has been repeatedly used in ads since its release.
(They Long to Be) Close to YouCarpenters
I bet many of you can recognize the song just from the intro.
It’s one of the signature tracks by the Carpenters, the music duo behind countless masterpieces.
The Japanese title “Harukanaru Kage” was released as a single in 1970.
The calm, refined arrangement pairs beautifully with Karen’s warm vocals.
The more you listen, the more it sinks into your heart.
It has been used in various commercials, including NTT Docomo’s “When You Debut Your Smartphone,” as well as spots for Glico and Toyota Home.
WhateverOasis
This is the sixth single by Oasis, a rock band that achieved global popularity with high-quality melodies and chord progressions reminiscent of The Beatles, infused with a modern approach.
In addition to being featured in Daiwa Securities’ commercial “There’s no place you can’t reach.
Future Designer,” it’s also known as a song frequently used at weddings.
The contrast between the beautiful, lyrical melody and the slightly gritty vocals conveys an evolution of classic, traditional songwriting.
It’s a masterpiece destined to endure for generations—well deserving of its peak position of No.
3 on the UK Singles Chart.
Every Breath You TakeThe Police
A song by The Police, a British rock band that was active from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s, known for their innovative musical style that blended rock with reggae elements.
Although the song was reportedly written “in 30 minutes while sitting at the piano,” it has amassed over 15 million radio plays.
It has also been featured in numerous commercials in Japan, so many of you may already be familiar with it.
Its repeated, striking guitar riff and crystalline vocals offer a distinctly British atmosphere not typically found in J-pop.
True ColorsCyndi Lauper
“True Colors,” which was used as the theme song for the FUJIFILM X-T1 commercial, is a classic released in 1986 that portrays “your very own colors.” It’s a work by the pop singer Cyndi Lauper, who is also well known for her love of Japan.
“Time After Time” is a tearjerker, and “True Colors” really hits you in the heart as well.
It was a hit not only in English-speaking countries like the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, but also in the Nordic region.
Even though we’re living in a time when individuality is increasingly respected, there are still plenty of situations where we change under the influence of others or can’t express ourselves due to our surroundings.
In times like that, the song’s gently spoken message resonates all the more.
The words of love and encouragement in the lyrics—”You’re wonderful just the way you are”—are enough to move you to tears.
The song has been covered by many artists across both Western and Japanese music scenes, and its color changes depending on who sings it, which is part of its brilliance.
