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.

AlrightSam Fischer, Meghan Trainor

Sam Fischer, Meghan Trainor – Alright (Official Video)
AlrightSam Fischer, Meghan Trainor

Sam Fischer and Meghan Trainor’s collaboration “Alright” is an encouraging anthem that speaks a gentle message to listeners who feel anxious.

Their voices match each other beautifully, building toward a climactic finish with gorgeous harmonies.

It starts with a laid-back guitar sound, and the gradually intensifying rhythm along the way has a powerful pull that draws you into the music.

Plus, the song features a simple melody and straightforward English, making it a great recommendation for beginners to Western pop music.