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Lovely Western music

[2026 Edition] Classic Western songs with great lyrics: beautiful messages that resonate with the heart

Among people who mainly listen to Western music, there actually aren’t that many who listen while fully understanding the lyrics in detail.

Not every domestic CD release comes with a Japanese translation, and it’s not a big problem to enjoy songs without knowing the lyrical content.

That said, learning what the lyrics actually say might make you love the song even more!

So this time, we’re focusing on “wonderful lyrics” in a broad sense and introducing classic Western songs with great lyrics that cover a variety of themes.

In the first half, we feature the latest hits and buzzworthy tracks, and in the second half, timeless classics.

Don’t miss this chance to check them out.

[2026 Edition] Classic Western songs with great lyrics: beautiful, heart-touching messages (141–150)

Troubled WatersThe Streets

The Streets – Troubled Waters (Official Music Video)
Troubled WatersThe Streets

The Streets is the solo project of British rapper Mike Skinner.

Its album The Darker The Shadow, The Brighter The Light was introduced with the lead single Troubled Waters.

It’s a song with a strong message, urging us to join hands and not be caught up in conflict and hatred.

It’s something that people of all ages will likely find themselves nodding along to.

A Song For YouDonny Hathaway

Leon Russell’s classic, “A Song For You.” His version is famous, of course, but the rendition sung by Donny Hathaway is also extremely well-known.

Hathaway came from a relatively affluent family and, despite the intense racial discrimination of the 1950s, he majored in classical music.

Thanks to that background, his version of “A Song For You” has a distinctly classical feel.

The lyrics depict a singer-protagonist expressing love to a partner, and together with the plaintive melody, it all comes together to create an indescribably poignant atmosphere.

TuesdayJulien Baker & TORRES

Julien Baker & TORRES – “Tuesday” (Official Video)
TuesdayJulien Baker & TORRES

A highly anticipated collaboration by singer-songwriters Julien Baker and Torres, shining stars of the American indie rock scene, has been announced.

Grounded in a classic Americana sound, the track features candid lyrics about queer self-discovery and religious trauma that truly resonate.

The song will appear on the album “Send A Prayer My Way,” slated for release in April 2025, and the duo also delivered a striking performance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in December 2024.

Weaving in themes of addiction, regret, and resistance against oppressive power structures, this gem showcases a superb harmony of both artists’ distinct voices.

A must-listen for anyone seeking deep emotional connection.

[2026 Edition] Classic Western songs with great lyrics: beautiful, heartfelt messages (151–160)

All of MeJohn Legend

John Legend – All of Me (Official Video)
All of MeJohn Legend

This is a beautiful proposal song with a simple arrangement of just piano and vocals, gently expressing the vow of eternal love.

Crafted by John Legend with his feelings for his future wife, Chrissy Teigen, the song celebrates the preciousness of loving someone for who they are, imperfections and all.

Released in August 2013, it is included on the album Love in the Future.

The powerful yet tender vocals and the piano melody blend perfectly to portray a pure form of love.

In May 2014, it became his first No.

1 hit in the United States.

Popular for weddings and proposals, it’s the perfect song for conveying your feelings to someone special or creating an intimate, unforgettable moment for two.

BUTTERFLYMARINA

MARINA – BUTTERFLY (Official Video)
BUTTERFLYMARINA

Centered on themes of self-transformation and rebirth, Welsh artist Marina forges new ground by blending baroque pop elements with contemporary production.

While carrying forward the majestic aesthetic showcased on her early album The Family Jewels, she moves listeners with emotive vocals and a multi-layered soundscape.

Released in February 2025 on the independent label Queenie Records, the work was created in close collaboration with producer CJ Baran.

Through the metaphor of a butterfly, its narrative of personal metamorphosis elegantly portrays a break with the past and an awakening to a new self.

Brimming with a quiet, pre-dawn sense of hope, this release is poised to encourage anyone standing at a crossroads in life.

Old Man’s GraceNathan Evans

A song whose philosophical message resonates deeply.

In this track, released in January 2025, Nathan Evans warmly sings about the profound meaning and value of life.

Hailing from Scotland, he is a singer known for the sea shanty revival.

The song is included on his album “1994,” released in November 2024, and it’s a captivating piece that modernizes traditional maritime work songs.

It’s recommended for times when you feel worn out by life or when you want to offer someone words of encouragement.

It will surely warm the heart and spark new hope.

Wish You Were HerePink Floyd

Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here (PULSE Restored & Re-Edited)
Wish You Were HerePink Floyd

It is a moving piece imbued with thoughts for lost souls.

It appears on the album Wish You Were Here, released in September 1975 by the British progressive rock band Pink Floyd.

Centered on themes of loneliness and a sense of loss, it features a simple yet deeply affecting melody and lyrics.

While it serves as a tribute to former member Syd Barrett, it also portrays universal human solitude.

It carries a critique of commercialism in the music industry, prompting deep reflection.

Recommended for those who have lost someone dear or who wish to contemplate the meaning of life.