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[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] Western Music Masterpieces with Great Lyrics: Beautiful, Heartfelt Messages (281–290)

They Don’t Care About UsMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – They Don’t Care About Us (Brazil Version) (Official Video)
They Don’t Care About UsMichael Jackson

A song released in 1996 by Michael Jackson.

It addresses criticism and anger toward racism, environmental destruction, and conflict.

Some lyrics were misunderstood as promoting anti-Semitism, leading to controversy.

Two versions of the music video were produced, both directed by Spike Lee.

StargazingMyles Smith

Myles Smith – Stargazing (Lyric Video)
StargazingMyles Smith

The song released in May 2024 by Miles Smith, a native of the Texas Hill Country, is a heartwarming love song that blends elements of folk, Americana, and pop.

Celebrating eternal love felt under a starry sky, it beautifully fuses deep emotion with a captivating melody.

Showcasing his skill as a guitarist and his talent as a singer-songwriter, the track became a major hit, reaching No.

8 on the UK Singles Chart.

Miles’s soulful vocals convey the importance of the bond with a loved one, resonating deeply with listeners.

It’s a romantically atmospheric song that will make you want to gaze up at the stars with someone special—be sure to give it a listen.

OLD MANNeil Young

Neil Young is often ranked alongside Bob Dylan for his powerful, profound lyrics that sing heartfelt truths.

This song, which compares the lives of the old and the young, was written for the caretaker who watched over the Broken Arrow Ranch he purchased in 1970.

[2026 Edition] Classic Western Songs with Great Lyrics: Wonderful, Heartfelt Messages (291–300)

How Can I Love You (Without Breaking Your Heart)The Struts

The Struts – How Can I Love You (Without Breaking Your Heart) (Lyric Video)
How Can I Love You (Without Breaking Your Heart)The Struts

This is a song released in February 2024 by the British rock band The Struts.

Unlike the band’s typically energetic tracks, it is a tender, emotive ballad.

The lyrics, which poignantly explore the delicate question of how to love someone without hurting their heart, leave a strong impression.

Warm, vintage-tinged sounds reminiscent of Rod Stewart and Fleetwood Mac further enhance the song’s bittersweet words.

Following their 2023 album Pretty Vicious, this track was released to coincide with Valentine’s Day.

It’s a heartwarming piece that offers comfort to those struggling with love and relationships.

Say Something LovingThe xx

The xx – Say Something Loving (Official Audio)
Say Something LovingThe xx

A lyrical, sweet track that evokes a nostalgic feeling.

It’s a song by The xx, a band formed in the UK in 2005.

It’s included on their 2017 album I See You, which features a unique sound and a forward-looking, open concept.

Eblouie par la nuitZAZ

ZAZ – Eblouie par la nuit (Clip officiel)
Eblouie par la nuitZAZ

The artist Zaz from France.

She’s an active French artist, and it’s no exaggeration to say she’s one of the most beloved.

Her famous song “Éblouie par la nuit” portrays the feelings of a woman whose lover, far away, is returning, and it received very high acclaim in France.

The lyrics are abstract, so interpretations can vary greatly depending on the listener.

That variability might be part of the fun, too.

Englishman In New YorkSting

Sting’s classic “Englishman in New York.” In Japan, it might be his second most famous song after “Shape of My Heart.” The lyrics depict the feelings of an American living in the UK.

At first glance, it seems to portray the life of a gentlemanly Englishman, but that’s not the case.

In fact, it depicts the life of the British writer Quentin Crisp, and conveys the struggles of a man who openly identified as gay living in America, along with the message that, in the end, one must change oneself.

In conclusion

I’m sure many people enjoy Western music purely for its sound without understanding the lyrics, but knowing what the artist is singing about greatly deepens your understanding of the song.

These days you can check Japanese translations online, so I encourage you to revisit the songs while savoring the feelings the artists have poured into their lyrics.