Fast-tempo Western songs: recommended classics and popular tracks
There’s a unit in music that quantifies beats per minute, called “BPM.” In short, it’s an indicator of a song’s speed, but a high BPM doesn’t necessarily mean the song will feel fast.
Since the listener is human, the feel can change depending on the musical style and the density of the lyrics.
So, for this feature…
We’ve selected Western songs that feel fast! We’ve picked a wide range: not only tracks with high BPM, but also curious songs that somehow feel quick despite having fewer beats.
There are some lesser-known tracks in the mix, too, so even regular listeners of Western music should take note.
Please sit back and enjoy.
Fast-tempo Western songs: recommended classics and popular tracks (1–10)
Rap GodEminem
Eminem has stayed at the top of the rap scene for years.
He possesses exceptionally high-level skills and, thanks to his talent, earns deep respect from heads all over the world.
As the title suggests, Rap God is a work that fully showcases his rap skills, which have reached a “godlike” level.
Though Eminem reigns at the top on the strength of his overwhelming skill, some haters and rappers claim he’s only praised because he’s white.
In this track, he directly confronts that narrative by going head-to-head with pure skill.
It’s ok I’m okTate McRae
This poppy, catchy dance number comes from Canadian artist Tate McRae.
Born from the experience of heartbreak and carrying a message of reclaiming self-worth, the track blends an upbeat rhythm with powerful vocals to great effect.
As a standout song from her September 2024 album “Think Later,” it achieved remarkable success, including a Top 20 placement on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100.
True to Tate McRae’s background as a dancer, the stunning choreography is also a highlight.
Her determination to move forward despite struggles and heartache resonates deeply.
Give it a listen whenever you need encouragement or a boost of energy.
Runaway BabyBruno Mars
This is one of the standout tracks from Bruno Mars’s classic album Doo-Wops & Hooligans.
With its uptempo, sharp rhythm and rap that Bruno Mars delivers with full force, every aspect of the song is top-notch! The album Doo-Wops & Hooligans is truly full of great tracks from start to finish.
Terminal SlamSquarepusher
A track released in January 2020 by Squarepusher, a leading figure in electronic music and also a bassist.
It’s a blast of hardcore jungle—aggressive, uninhibited electronics flying in all directions—that hits you right between the eyes and will have longtime fans cheering.
If it drops on the dance floor, things are going to get wild! By the way, the music video directed by Daito Manabe is set in an ultra-near-future Tokyo and is well worth checking out.
American IdiotGreen Day
Green Day, a quintessential punk rock band, is widely respected around the world.
Since their major-label debut in 1994, they’ve remained at the forefront of the scene.
One fast-tempo track I highly recommend is American Idiot.
While high-tempo songs can sometimes feel less accessible, this one pairs its speed with an extremely catchy sound.
Be sure to give it a listen.
lutherKendrick Lamar
This track is memorable for the beautiful harmony woven by Kendrick Lamar and SZA, both from the United States.
Blending hip-hop and R&B, it explores themes of love and hope.
Its nostalgic melody, paired with monochromatic rap and luscious vocals, creates a deep sense of storytelling.
Released in November 2024, the song is included on the album GNX and reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It also captivated 133.5 million viewers during the Super Bowl halftime show in February 2025.
Gently addressing feelings for a loved one, the song exquisitely balances a tender, heartfelt atmosphere with an up-tempo sound.
Been Like ThisMeghan Trainor, T-Pain
It features a powerful trumpet melody and an exhilarating sound infused with jazz elements.
This collaborative track by American artists Meghan Trainor and T-Pain comes from the album “Timeless,” released in March 2024.
A dream collaboration for Trainor, who has long been a fan of T-Pain, the song gives a modern twist to the doo-wop style.
In the space-themed music video, they deliver a captivating performance alongside dancers, drawing attention on shows like American Idol and Today.
With its positive message and driving rhythm, it’s a perfect track to play while on the road.