RAG MusicEmotion
A wonderful, moving song

Moving Western songs: classic and popular tracks among the world’s most emotional songs.

Unlike Japanese music, one of the advantages of Western music is that you can be moved by the mood of the melody even if you don’t know the lyrics.

This time, I’ve selected Western songs that are especially moving.

In the first half, I’ve prioritized commercially successful works and well-known tracks.

In the second half, I’ve gathered truly moving Western masterpieces, regardless of their popularity or commercial scale.

If you’re well-versed in Western music, you’ll likely encounter masterpieces you haven’t heard before in the latter half—so be sure to check them out!

Moving Western songs: masterworks and popular picks among the world’s most emotional songs (31–40)

I Can’t Make You Love MeBonnie Raitt

Bonnie Raitt – I Can’t Make You Love Me
I Can't Make You Love MeBonnie Raitt

This song tells the story of a woman standing on the brink of a breakup: she senses her partner’s feelings will never return, yet she can’t forget the nights when there was love.

Released by Bonnie Raitt in 1991, it became her biggest hit.

HeroMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – Hero (Official HD Video)
HeroMariah Carey

A ballad filled with quiet strength that makes you aware of the power sleeping within yourself.

Included on the 1993 album “Music Box,” it spent four consecutive weeks at No.

1 in the U.S.

as a single.

It was originally intended to be offered to another singer as a movie theme song, but Mariah Carey ended up singing it herself, revising the lyrical perspective and arrangement to complete it—so the story goes.

Even when you’re sunk in disappointment or doubt, the lyrics remind you not to rely on someone else but to remember the hero within.

Riding on the simple resonance of piano and organ, the restrained-then-released vocal delivery conveys the meaning of the words directly.

Performed at weddings and memorials alike, this piece carries a universal message that stands beside anyone at a crossroads in life.

Let Her GoPassenger

Passenger | Let Her Go (Official Video)
Let Her GoPassenger

A song from Passenger, the singer-songwriter from England.

It’s a masterpiece that poignantly sings about the bittersweet realization of what matters only after it’s gone—an experience many of us have had.

Regret comes too late; there are so many things we shouldn’t wait to lose to appreciate.

I’m sure many people can relate.

You Raise Me UpCeltic Woman

Celtic Woman – You Raise Me Up (Live)
You Raise Me UpCeltic Woman

Originally a song by Secret Garden, but in Japan the version by Celtic Woman, an Irish female vocal group, may be more well-known.

It was used as the theme song for Mitsubishi Motors’ “@earth TECHNOLOGY” commercial.

Cruel SummerTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Cruel Summer (Official Audio)
Cruel SummerTaylor Swift

This song, which explores the complex emotions hidden within a passionate summer romance, is one of the signature works showcased by American artist Taylor Swift on her 2019 album “Lover.” While it outwardly depicts a glamorous summer love, its lyrics deftly weave in the anguish and inner conflict of a secret relationship, vividly expressing the duality of joy and pain in love.

Released as a single in June 2023, it became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It’s a recommended track for solitary summer nights or for those struggling with complicated relationships.

Moving Western songs: Classic and popular tracks among the world’s most emotional songs (41–50)

One Call AwayCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth – One Call Away [Official Video]
One Call AwayCharlie Puth

This song, which celebrates unconditional support for a loved one, is a classic that deeply resonates with people struggling with long-distance relationships or physical separation.

Released in August 2015 by American singer-songwriter Charlie Puth, this pop-soul ballad features a warm melody with gospel influences.

As the second single from his debut album, Nine Track Mind, it peaked at No.

12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified triple platinum.

It’s a recommended track for those who spend a lot of time apart from their partner or loved ones, and for anyone hoping to build a supportive relationship.

Someone Like YouAdele

Adele – Someone Like You (Official Music Video)
Someone Like YouAdele

It feels like a heartbreak song.

Be warned: the moment you hear Adele’s voice at the start, the tears will start to flow.

The painfully bittersweet melody and the lyrics really sink in.

When the chorus hits, the tears are sure to fall.