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

May It BeEnya

May It Be

This song was used in the end credits of the 2001 film “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.” Part of the lyrics are written in Sindarin, a fictional language.

The song was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

AnythingGriff

Griff – Anything (Visualiser)

Griff is a rising young singer-songwriter from the UK.

Chosen as the Rising Star at the BRIT Awards in 2021, her release from June 2024 is a track that portrays the anguish found in complex relationships.

Its distinctive synthesizers and punchy drum beats are layered with emotive vocals.

The lyrics delve into themes like loss of self-esteem, manipulation, and self-sacrifice, leaving a deep impression on listeners.

Anyone struggling with relationships will likely find it deeply relatable.

Pillow In My ArmsGriff

Griff – Pillow In My Arms (Visualiser)

Griff is a young singer-songwriter from the United Kingdom.

With Chinese and Jamaican roots, she drew attention after winning the Rising Star award at the BRITs in 2021.

Released in April 2024, this work is an outstanding piece that poignantly expresses the longing for a lost love.

It portrays the attempt to find comfort by hugging a pillow, offering a fresh perspective on a universal theme.

Griff’s characteristically delicate lyrics and melodies are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a perfect song for lonely nights or when you want to heal the pain of a broken heart.

Where Does The Light Get In?Hot Milk

Hot Milk – Where Does The Light Get In? (Official Video)

The song released in September 2024 by Hot Milk, hailing from Manchester, UK, is a work born from deep inner pain.

With a grand arrangement incorporating strings and a choir, it further evolves the band’s signature pop-rock sound.

The lyrics, infused with vocalist Han Mee’s earnest feelings, convey a sense of strength that seeks hope even in darkness.

This track symbolizes the dawn of a new era for the band.

Having entered the UK Top 40 with their 2023 debut album, A Call To The Void, they seem poised for an even greater leap forward.

Lift You UpJessie Ware & Romy

Jessie Ware & Romy – Lift You Up (Lyric Video)

A collaborative track delivering empathy and empowerment to those struggling with low self-esteem, set to sophisticated dance-pop, was released in June 2024.

Created by acclaimed UK singer-songwriters Jessie Ware and Romy, the song features alternating, powerful vocals, a memorable melody, and polished synthesizer sounds.

Premiered at the Glastonbury Festival before its official release, it has drawn attention as a track that lifts the dance floor while speaking to listeners’ hearts.

It’s the perfect song for when you want to feel positive or give yourself a boost.

HOW FARKarun

Karun – HOW FAR Prod. GR! & Hook (A Visual)

A new song by Karun, a Kenyan singer-songwriter who masterfully fuses elements of R&B and Afro-soul, is making waves.

Released in May 2024, this moving track is packed with her distinctive style and powerful message.

Set to a soothing, meditative melody, it contrasts safe memories of the past with present struggles, singing of personal growth and transformation.

Her voice resonates with hope and encouragement.

It’s a soul-stirring masterpiece for anyone grappling with everyday anxieties.

HEART LIKE A HOMETOWNKeith Urban

Keith Urban – HEART LIKE A HOMETOWN (Official Audio)

This is a heartwarming song themed around nostalgia and unconditional love.

Released in August 2024 by New Zealand–born Keith Urban, the song uses “hometown” as a metaphor to express that the heart is a warm place that always welcomes anyone.

It is included on the album High, scheduled for release on September 20.

Having moved frequently during his childhood, Keith Urban says that a hometown is not a specific place, but somewhere within the heart where you feel safe.

Blending elements of country and pop, this track is perfect for moments when you want to feel both nostalgia and warmth.