[Best Friend] Western friendship songs for women — classic tracks to dedicate to your cherished friends

I Turn To YouChristina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera – I Turn To You (Official Video)

Although it was released in 1999, this medium-tempo R&B ballad is a masterpiece whose refined strings with a hint of the ’80s, simple beat, warm acoustic guitar tones, and expansive sound are all beautiful and pleasant.

Christina Aguilera was only 18 at the time, which makes her commanding delivery and overwhelming vocal power all the more astonishing.

I Turn To You, included on her self-titled debut, expresses gratitude toward someone you deeply trust, and thanks to Aguilera’s remarkable vocals, the song avoids feeling cheap and carries real conviction.

By the way, the song originally belonged to the male group All-4-One, active since the ’90s.

I recommend listening while comparing it with the original version.

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Fight SongRachel Platten

Rachel Platten – Fight Song (Official Video)

A song brimming with strength and hope, centered on themes of self-affirmation and courage.

Written by American artist Rachel Platten as a heartfelt effort to overcome a lull in her music career, it was released in February 2015 and became a major hit, peaking at No.

6 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Featured in WWE’s “Rise Above Cancer” campaign and a Ford commercial, the track has served as a source of support for people facing challenges.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who has experienced setbacks yet can’t give up on their dreams.

Say My NameDestiny’s Child

Destiny’s Child – Say My Name (Official Video)

Destiny’s Child, the R&B group also known for having Beyoncé as a member.

Their 1999 smash-hit classic, The Writing’s on the Wall, features not only songs that celebrate the sparkle of friendship, but also tracks that explore its fragility.

This particular piece portrays the tense emotions of a woman who, sensing suspicious behavior from the person on the other end of the phone, becomes convinced that their bond is slipping away.

Doesn’t that searing doubt also echo the feelings you have when confronted with a trusted friend’s betrayal? The innovative beats and the relentless interplay of vocals are stunning, and in 2001 the song won two Grammy Awards.

If you want to touch on the more complex side of human relationships—something a bit different from glittering friendship anthems—listening to this might lead to new discoveries.

WaterfallsTLC

TLC – Waterfalls (Official HD Video)

TLC, the female R&B group that dominated the scene in the ’90s, captured the hearts of many listeners not only with catchy hooks but with songs carrying powerful messages.

Released as a single in 1995 from their 1994 classic album CrazySexyCool, this track is a prime example of that essence.

Despite its dreamy, silky-smooth R&B sound, the song is a warning to those who chase reckless dreams and step onto dangerous paths.

It can even sound like a desperate cry to stop a dear friend from heading toward ruin.

The music video, which won Video of the Year at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards, delves deeply into this serious theme as well.

It’s a track that moves you with the bittersweet ache of caring for a friend—sweet, but far from saccharine.

My Best FriendWeezer

Weezer – My Best Friend (with lyrics)

Written by vocalist Rivers Cuomo, this song expresses feelings for a best friend in a fresh and straightforward way.

It is included on the American rock band Weezer’s fifth album, Make Believe.

It’s the kind of track that leaves you with a warm feeling after listening.

Stand By MeBen E. King

Ben E. King – Stand By Me (Official Audio)

One of the soul music songs well-known in Japan, Stand by Me, is truly a classic: its simple message—“I want you by my side”—has been embraced by all generations.

It’s also fun to compare different versions, as many musicians, including John Lennon, have covered it.

With a Little Help from My FriendsThe Beatles

The Beatles – With a Little Help from My Friends

A song that reminds you your friends are always there.

All the members of The Beatles share vocal duties.

Released in 1967, this track has been covered by many artists.

It was also selected for Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”