[2026] Moving Western songs that touch the heart: A roundup of recommended classics

IrisGoo Goo Dolls

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris [Official Music Video] [4K Remaster]

A heart-stirring rock ballad born from the story of the film City of Angels.

Released by America’s Goo Goo Dolls in April 1998, this song richly conveys the aching feelings of an angel who has fallen in love with a human.

Its beautiful melody weaves together a gentle gaze toward people striving to live and the protagonist’s resolve to seek love, even at the cost of eternal life.

Included on the band’s album Dizzy Up the Girl, the track became a massive hit, spending 18 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart.

It’s a recommended listen for those who want to reflect deeply on the determination to change oneself for a loved one, as well as the doubt and resolve that come at life’s crossroads.

Summer BabyJonas Brothers

Jonas Brothers – Summer Baby (Official Lyric Video)

A warm-hearted pop tune by America’s Jonas Brothers that sings of simple yet profound love.

Set to a gentle melody that savors happiness, the song expresses the bond with a partner and gratitude for family.

Radiating the warmth of a midsummer sunbeam, this piece is included on their May 2023 release, “The Album.” The emotional vocals and polished production blend beautifully, skillfully fusing elements of pop and country.

It’s a tender, family-love-filled number that only three brothers who have performed together for years could create—perfect as background music for a weekend drive or a relaxing café time with someone special.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear especially when your heart feels a little tired.

Every Summertimeniki

NIKI – Every Summertime (Official Video)

A bittersweet coming-of-age story spun by NIKI, an artist from Jakarta, Indonesia.

This heartwarming song gently captures universal moments of love—like tender memories with a partner she met in America and the nervousness of introducing a boyfriend to her father for the first time.

Included on the soundtrack album for Marvel’s film Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, it was released in August 2021 and climbed the charts across various Asian countries.

It also comes with the remarkable anecdote of having been created in just one hour.

Its bright, poppy rhythm is perfect for a May afternoon drive under fresh green leaves or as background music for a weekend picnic.

With a soothing melody that wraps around the feeling of being in love, it stays close to the heart.

Buddy HollyWeezer

Weezer – Buddy Holly (Official Music Video)

This is a gem of a power-pop track released in September 1994 by Weezer, a band emblematic of American alternative rock.

Through references to rock ’n’ roll stars and actresses of the 1950s, it powerfully sings about resisting the gaze and prejudices of others in love.

The driving guitar riffs, catchy melodies, and bright, memorable sound blend beautifully.

Included on the 1994 album “Weezer,” its music video was directed by Spike Jonze and won four awards at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards.

Capturing the spirit of American youth at the time, this song is recommended for anyone who values staying true to themselves or wants to cheer on pure, sincere love.

Slow HandsNiall Horan

Niall Horan – Slow Hands (Official Lyric Video)

Irish pop singer Niall Horan gained worldwide recognition as a member of the boy band One Direction and made his solo debut in 2017.

Influenced by Fleetwood Mac and the Eagles, he’s known for a warm vocal style that blends folk and pop.

He won Favorite Breakout Artist at the 2017 People’s Choice Awards and has collected numerous awards since.

His album Flicker reached No.

1 in both the United States and Ireland, proving his strength as a solo artist.

In 2023, he served as a coach on the popular audition show The Voice, leading a winner from his own team.

He’s a recommended artist for those who enjoy gentle vocals, guitar-driven performances, and songs with folk-pop elements.

LifelinePapa Roach

Papa Roach – Lifeline

A track from Papa Roach, a driving force in the American rock scene, that carries a passionate, message-filled punch.

Centered on themes of youth, growth, and self-discovery, its powerful vocals resonate with the feelings of people facing economic crisis.

Released in 2009 and included on the album Metamorphosis, this song gives you the courage to hold onto hope even in hard times.

The beautiful harmony woven by the guitar riffs and catchy melodies signals a new frontier for Papa Roach.

Featured in the Rock Band series and Band Hero, it gained broad support from a wide audience.

It’s a track that stands by your side when you want to keep moving forward, or when you need the courage to take a new step.

Second ChanceShinedown

Shinedown – Second Chance (Official Video)

A quintessential ballad from Shinedown, one of the defining American rock bands of the 2000s.

Its hopeful melody and the protagonist’s resolve to say goodbye to family in order to chase his dreams are deeply moving.

Released in September 2008 and peaking at No.

7 on the Billboard Hot 100, this song has remained one of the band’s signature tracks beloved around the world.

It was also featured on WWE’s popular program “Tribute to the Troops” and in promotional material for the TV drama Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles, earning widespread support.

It’s a song that gently encourages those who feel hesitant about taking the first step toward their dreams or who have decided to embark on a new challenge.