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

LandslideFleetwood Mac

Landslide (2017 Remaster)

This is a song called “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac.

As we grow up, the way we think and see things changes compared to the past, doesn’t it? Sometimes those changes can be confusing and troubling, right? In those moments, try listening to this song.

It’s one I really recommend reading the lyrics along with, too.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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ApologiesThree Days Grace

Three Days Grace – Apologies (Official Video)

A moving ballad that evokes empathy for a self who feels unworthy of love.

Set to appear on Canadian rock band Three Days Grace’s album “Alienation,” slated for release in May 2025, this track marks the first song featuring the twin-vocal lineup of Adam Gontier—returning to the band after roughly 11 years—and current vocalist Matt Walst.

As weighty guitar riffs and taut harmonies resound, the lyrics—depicting the lonely mindset of rejecting the love of someone dear—cut straight to the heart.

Even amid despair, the emotional melody carries a hint of hope, sure to soothe anyone battling loneliness.

With an energetic sound reminiscent of early-2000s hard rock, this is a track that showcases the very essence of Three Days Grace.

SurviveLewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi – Survive (Official Video)

The soul-stirring ballad crafted by Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi is a powerful story of renewal, born from the depths of profound anguish and a vow to “keep living on” no matter what.

Knowing that he endured a crushing setback in June 2023 and released this piece exactly two years later makes his resolve all the more moving.

The lyrics—facing down the terror of nights when you feel you’re not enough, and pledging to rise again regardless—are nothing less than the cry of his heart.

Following the landmark album “Broken by Desire to Be Heavenly Sent,” this new work is sure to rouse the spirit of anyone confronting life’s walls.

We Are the WorldUSA For Africa

U.S.A. For Africa – We Are the World

This might be the song with the largest number of people worldwide who can sing the chorus.

Since it’s performed by a lineup of famous singers led by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, it might be a good idea to listen to it again as a way to take a fresh look at the song.

ApologizeTimbaland ft. OneRepublic

Timbaland – Apologize ft. OneRepublic

A song about the pain of a broken relationship and the need to move on.

OneRepublic was formed in Colorado by songwriter-producer Ryan Tedder and his high school friend Zach Filkins.

The track gained significant attention when producer Timbaland created a remix and included it on his album “Timbaland Presents: Shock Value.”

PhotographEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Photograph (Official Music Video)

There’s a timeless song that accompanies those sentimental moments when you look back on summer memories alongside your photos.

It’s a track by Ed Sheeran, the globally renowned singer-songwriter from the UK.

Featured on the acclaimed album ‘×,’ which won British Album of the Year at the 2015 BRIT Awards, this folk-pop ballad was released as a single.

Centered on a long-distance relationship, it portrays a couple reaffirming their love through photographs.

The message—that even apart, hearts remain close—gently seeps in, carried by his soft vocals and acoustic sound.

The music video, which uses real home videos from his childhood, deepens the song’s warm yet bittersweet atmosphere and is truly moving.

As summer comes to an end, why not listen to it while thinking of someone special?

Nothing Compares 2 U (2009 Remaster)Sinéad O’Connor

Nothing Compares 2 U (2009 Remaster)

This is “Nothing Compares 2 U,” the signature song by Sinead O’Connor, the Irish singer-songwriter known for her stylish shaved-head look.

Right after a breakup, you might find yourself with more time alone and even feel refreshed.

But loneliness inevitably follows.

This is a song that gently stays by your side in those moments.

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