RAG Music
Lovely Western music

When you’re hurting and feel like you want to disappear… timeless Western songs to listen to at times like these

The power of music is tremendous—sometimes just listening to a song when you’re feeling down can lift your spirits.

However, it’s rare to come across songs like that, and it’s not easy to find tracks that truly match your tastes.

In particular, I think Western music is harder to discover compared to Japanese music.

So this time, I’ve selected some classic Western songs for those moments when you’re struggling or feel like disappearing.

I’ve also included explanations of the lyrics, so even if you don’t understand English, you can still enjoy them without any trouble.

Please take your time and enjoy.

I’m hurting, I want to disappear… Western music masterpieces to listen to in those moments (31–40)

So LonelyThe Police

The Police – So Lonely (Official Music Video)
So LonelyThe Police

A song written by Sting and included on The Police’s debut album, Outlandos d’Amour.

It portrays the misery of a broken heart with irony and a playful touch by incorporating reggae influences.

The music video, directed by Derek Burbidge, was filmed on the streets of Hong Kong and in the Tokyo subway.

WhateverOasis

Oasis – Whatever (Official Video)
WhateverOasis

A masterpiece among masterpieces: Oasis’s “Whatever.” It was originally released to target the Christmas market, but it ended up being played everywhere around the world and has continued to be loved ever since.

The lyrics are essentially about being “freer, just as you feel,” and the expansive melody together with that uniquely indescribable voice naturally settles into your heart like taking a breath.

It’s a classic that lifts your spirits without forcing your energy up, helping you feel positive.

FireworksMitski

Mitski is a singer-songwriter based in New York.

One song that could be said to reflect her unique background with roots in Japan is “Fireworks.” Its lyrics depict a sad event on a summer day.

The setting is indoors, but as the protagonist is overcome with sorrow, the sound of fireworks can be heard from outside.

This seems to contrast the cheerful mood of people likely watching the fireworks outside with the protagonist’s sadness.

DriveThe Cars

The Cars – Drive (Official Music Video)
DriveThe Cars

A very melancholic song by The Cars.

It reached No.

5 on the charts in the UK.

At the Live Aid concert, it was used as the background music for a video clip depicting Africa suffering from poverty.

Here I Go AgainWhitesnake

Whitesnake – Here I Go Again ’87 (Official Music Video)
Here I Go AgainWhitesnake

A song written in Portugal by Whitesnake’s leader, David Coverdale.

Although it’s generally considered an inspiring song about facing challenges, it was originally about loneliness.

It was inspired by Coverdale’s relationship with his first wife, Julia, during his first marriage.

When You Feel Hurt and Want to Disappear… 10 Classic Western Songs to Listen To (41–50)

Alone AgainGilbert O’Sullivan

Gilbert O’Sullivan – Alone Again (original version)
Alone AgainGilbert O'Sullivan

A song said to be one of the most melancholic.

It became Irish singer Gilbert O’Sullivan’s only No.

1 hit in the United States and won Grammy Awards in three categories.

The track is featured in the 1999 film The Virgin Suicides.

Ave MariaLuciano Pavarotti

Luciano Pavarotti – Ave Maria (Schubert)
Ave MariaLuciano Pavarotti

There are many versions of the classic “Ave Maria.” Each one carries a very warm atmosphere and can soothe a downcast mood.

This time, I’ve chosen the rendition sung by Luciano Pavarotti.

His vocals, full of gentleness and warmth, pair perfectly with the healing melody of “Ave Maria,” so please give it a listen.

I’m sure it will calm your restless heart.