Western songs you’ll want to listen to leisurely on your days off. World classics and popular hits.

RiversideAgnes Obel

Agnes Obel – Riverside (Official Video)

This song was often used in flashback scenes of Emily, the protagonist of the hit international drama “Revenge,” which is said to have been watched by 180 million people across the United States.

It matches the heroine well—sad, yet imbued with strength.

For fans of the show, it’s a deeply meaningful track.

Of course, I can confidently recommend it even to those who haven’t seen the series.

I SwearAll-4-One

All-4-One – I Swear

This is a Grammy-winning song by an R&B pop group formed in 1994.

It received worldwide acclaim, being hailed as one of the greatest love ballads of the 20th century.

You’ll surely be soothed by the mellow harmonies woven by the four men.

Better in StereoDove Cameron

Cast – Liv and Maddie – Better in Stereo (from “Liv and Maddie”)

This is the opening theme of the popular Disney Channel original series “Liv and Maddie,” in which Dove plays a dual role.

Her beautiful, soaring tone and her adorable smile—one that feels like it could turn everything around her into a flower field—are truly soothing.

Ev’rybody Wants to Be a CatScatman Crothers

Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat

The jazz number that colors the most memorable scene in Disney’s 1970 film The Aristocats is a charming song that celebrates the cats’ free and joyful way of life.

With the lively vocals of Scat Cat performed by America’s multitalented entertainer Scatman Crothers, it brilliantly captures the cats’ cheerful, unrestrained worldview.

Louis Armstrong was originally slated for the role, but plans changed due to health reasons.

With a fun melody that incorporates elements of swing jazz, the performance scene in a Paris attic became one of the film’s most iconic moments.

It’s a classic that’s perfect for a laid-back day off or for anyone who wants to revel in the upbeat rhythms of jazz.

Phenomenal CatThe Kinks

The Kinks – Phenomenal Cat (Official Audio)

This work, which depicts a fantastical tale of a cat that flies through the sky, is a song created in 1968 by the British rock band The Kinks.

Included on the album The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society, it features a cat as the protagonist—one who, after traveling the world and discovering the secrets of life, settles into a lifestyle of endlessly eating atop a tree.

Alternating passages of Mellotron flute sounds and a processed cat voice—achieved by changing the recording speed—create a distinctive atmosphere reminiscent of a Victorian fairy tale.

It’s a recommended track for those weary of everyday life or looking to spark their imagination.

Summer GirlHaim

HAIM – Summer Girl

A gem of a pop number that layers the warmth and hope of summer over the deep bonds between people.

Released in July 2019 by the Los Angeles–born sister trio Haim, the song portrays a story of love and support born from facing a partner’s illness.

Its saxophone line—inspired by a classic by Lou Reed—stands out, advancing beyond their usual guitar-centered sound into a jazzy finish.

The track was later included as a bonus track on the album Women in Music Pt.

III, which earned a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year.

It’s a song for lovers supporting each other through hard times—and one you’ll want to play at the start of summer.

Come Away With MeNorah Jones

Norah Jones – Come Away With Me

A jewel-like ballad whose sweet melody echoes through the silence and seeps into the depths of the heart.

Crafted by American artist Norah Jones, this song delicately portrays a longing to run away with a loved one.

The protagonist’s desire to escape the city’s clamor and a world full of falsehoods, and to seek quiet time for just the two of them, is conveyed alongside the warmth of the piano’s gentle lines.

Released as a single in September 2002, it was also featured on the soundtrack of the film Maid in Manhattan.

It’s a classic you’ll want to play on a nighttime drive, during a quiet afternoon, or whenever you wish to spend time with someone special.