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Lovely Western music

Classic Western songs you’ll want to listen to on a trip: Travel songs from around the world

Music is essential for long journeys.

Listening to nostalgic Japanese songs and soaking in memories is great, but every now and then, why not head toward your destination with a swelling sense of excitement for unknown places while listening to Western music?

For those of you who feel that way, we’ve selected classic Western tracks perfect for travel.

We’ve picked not only timeless staples but also the latest hits—and even songs themed around travel—curating numbers that fit your trip from a variety of angles.

Be sure to find the tracks that suit you!

Classic Western songs to listen to while traveling: World travel songs (31–40)

AmericaSimon&Garfunkel

It’s a song included on the 1968 album Bookends.

Although it was released as a single, it peaked at only No.

97 in the United States.

Despite its lack of chart success, it has many fans and is considered one of Simon & Garfunkel’s signature songs.

Come Fly With MeFrank Sinatra

The title track from an album Sinatra released in 1958.

The album itself is a concept record themed around traveling to countries around the world, and it features an unusual cover design with an illustration of Sinatra set against an airport backdrop.

The arrangements were done by Billy May.

Take Me Home, Country RoadsJohn Denver

John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads (Official Audio)
Take Me Home, Country RoadsJohn Denver

A massive hit in Japan as well, this is the signature song that comes to mind when you think of John Denver.

Olivia Newton-John’s cover was also a hit.

In Studio Ghibli’s anime “Whisper of the Heart,” it’s used as the song the heroine translates in the story, which helped it become known to an even wider audience.

Take Yours, I’ll Take MineMatthew Mole

Matthew Mole – Take Yours, I’ll Take Mine (Official Video)
Take Yours, I'll Take MineMatthew Mole

South African singer-songwriter Matthew Mole’s “Take Yours, I’ll Take Mine” is a great companion for a journey.

It’s a track from the album “The Home We Built,” with a vibe reminiscent of country music.

The lyrics convey a message of “rest well and return to your true self.” Why not give it a listen when you’re traveling but can’t quite get work or school off your mind?

I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)The Proclaimers

The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) (Official Music Video)
I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)The Proclaimers

The Proclaimers are what you’d call a one-hit wonder band, and this song alone became a worldwide smash.

In Japan, many people know it because it was used in the Johnny Depp film “Benny & Joon.” The promotional video also features scenes from this movie.

Classic Western songs to listen to while traveling: Travel songs of the world (41–50)

Travelin’ BandCreedence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival: Travellin’ Band
Travelin' BandCreedence Clearwater Revival

One of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s signature songs, included on the album Cosmos Factory and later released as a single.

It has been covered by eminent artists such as Elton John and Bruce Springsteen.

CarouselIron&Wine

Iron and Wine – Carousel
CarouselIron&Wine

Iron & Wine is not a group but an individual—he’s a singer-songwriter.

Before his CD debut, he had an unusual background as a film studies professor at the University of Miami.

This song is included on the 2007 album The Shepherd’s Dog.

It has his characteristic mellow tone.