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

See You Again (feat. Charlie Puth)Wiz Khalifa

[Official] Japanese Translation: Wiz Khalifa – See You Again (feat. Charlie Puth) (from the film Fast & Furious 7)

Released in 2015 by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth, “See You Again” became a beloved song worldwide as the theme for the film Furious 7.

The track is a tribute to someone dearly loved who was suddenly lost, and it is especially known for being dedicated to Paul Walker.

Charlie’s moving falsetto blends seamlessly with Khalifa’s conversational rap, conveying both the grief of loss and the hope of one day meeting again.

I recommend this song to anyone facing loss and striving to overcome it, and to anyone who wants to experience a deeply emotional moment through music.

Story Of My LifeOne Direction

One Direction – Story of My Life

A famous song by One Direction that’s well-known in Japan through commercials.

It can sound like a breakup song, but if you think of using “her” as a metaphor for an expression, it becomes a much deeper track.

That said, I feel what the song is really saying is that he’s mapping his own life onto her.

Hey, Soul SisterTrain

Train – Hey, Soul Sister (Official Video)

A gem of a love song by the American pop-rock band Train that sings of a soulful bond.

Released in August 2009, this piece was created after the band’s two-year hiatus and stands as a heartfelt work.

The light, breezy sound of the ukulele and the lyrics that resonate deeply weave an exquisite harmony.

The joy of finding a soulmate and the feeling of gratitude are expressed through warm, tender vocals.

Released as the lead single from the album “Save Me, San Francisco,” it captured the hearts of music fans around the world.

A perfect track for anyone seeking hope in life.

Fire AwayChris Stapleton

Chris Stapleton – Fire Away (Official Music Video)

It’s a song called “Fire Away,” sung by Chris Stapleton, a country singer with a dry, masculine voice.

This slow ballad will soothe your heart.

Give it a listen on tough days or when you’re burdened with worries—you’ll surely feel the weight on your heart grow lighter.

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Always Remember Us This WayNEW!Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga – Always Remember Us This Way (from A Star Is Born) (Official Music Video)

If you’ve seen the film A Star Is Born, you probably remember the piano ballad that colors one of the story’s pivotal scenes.

This piece carries a bittersweet yet beautiful wish to etch a moment of love into the heart forever.

Lady Gaga’s vocals overlap with her on-screen character, striking listeners deeply.

The warm, country-inflected sound feels dramatic even without flashy production.

Included on the soundtrack album A Star Is Born, released in October 2018, the song—despite being an album track—was nominated for Song of the Year at the 62nd Grammy Awards.

It’s perfect for nights when you want to immerse yourself in the film’s world or reaffirm your feelings for someone special.

Why not try a piano-and-vocal performance and sing it tenderly?

We Are YoungFun. ft. Janelle Monáe

Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Known as a song that celebrates youth and freedom, this work is an ambitious piece by the American pop rock band fun.

Featuring Janelle Monáe, it vividly portrays the everyday lives of young people.

The song skillfully weaves together complex relationships in nightlife and elements of self-reflection, resonating with many listeners.

Released in September 2011, it won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.

It has also been widely embraced across audiences, including a cover on the popular TV show Glee.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to feel the energy of youth or reaffirm the importance of living life to the fullest.

OverNEW!Sydney Rose & Tom Odell

Sydney Rose, Tom Odell – Over (Official Lyric Video)

Singer-songwriter Sydney Rose from Georgia, USA, who has been gaining popularity thanks to viral hits on social media.

Her new track with acclaimed UK artist Tom Odell is Over.

Released as a single in January 2026, it’s a heart-wrenching ballad where near-silent acoustic guitar and their whisper-like vocals take center stage.

As the song builds, layered strings swell toward the finale, delivering a breathtakingly dramatic outpouring of emotion.

With Sydney Rose riding momentum—her past songs earning Gold certifications—and Tom Odell’s many accolades, their chemistry is a must-hear.

Portraying a poignant scene of parting, this track is perfect for those quiet nights when you want to sit alone with the music.