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)

Can’t Be TamedMiley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus – Can’t Be Tamed
Can't Be TamedMiley Cyrus

She shot up from a Disney Channel child star to adulthood in one leap, unabashedly showcasing her sexy side, and it wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call this work the epitome of her headline-grabbing songs.

It’ll blow your mind.

I Don’t Want to Miss a ThingAerosmith

Aerosmith – I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing (Official HD Video)
I Don't Want to Miss a ThingAerosmith

It’s a single by Aerosmith released in September 1998.

It was used as the theme song for the film Armageddon, which starred Steven Tyler’s daughter, Liv Tyler.

It was also featured in a Nissan Elgrand commercial.

Viva La VidaColdplay

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)
Viva La VidaColdplay

This is a song by the British rock band Coldplay, whose grand strings portray the sorrow of a king who has lost his power, striking straight at the heart.

Released in May 2008 from the album “Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends,” many will remember it for winning Song of the Year at the 51st Grammy Awards.

You may also have heard it in Apple’s iPod commercials.

Among fans, it enjoys overwhelming popularity as “majestic yet bittersweet,” and “like an anthem for life.” The protagonist’s emptiness—“I once ruled the world, and now I sleep alone”—echoes the hollow feeling that can follow great success.

Reflecting on the fragility of life revealed only after reaching the top makes you want to cherish the happiness you have now.

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.

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.

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

Don’t know whyNorah Jones

It’s a song filled with a gentle atmosphere, with an acoustic guitar melody flowing throughout.

One noteworthy aspect is how the vocals are very forward in the mix—as if Norah Jones were whispering and singing right by your ear.

Love Is A Losing GameAmy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse – Love Is A Losing Game
Love Is A Losing GameAmy Winehouse

This is a hauntingly beautiful song by Amy Winehouse, who tragically died at the young age of 27 due to alcohol and drug addiction.

It sings of the difficulties of love, but when you listen to it through the lens of her character, it transforms into a song that feels even more truthful.