A popular song sung by a male Western music group

You’re the InspirationCHICAGO

Chicago – You’re the Inspiration (Official Music Video)

A simple ballad released in 1976 by the American rock band Chicago.

It was written by bassist Peter Cetera, who also performs the lead vocals.

The track has been covered by artists such as The Isley Brothers and Boyz II Men.

It’s a love song by Chicago that pairs well with a rich, masculine vocal, and over time it contributed to the band becoming better known for ballads rather than for brass rock.

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

This classic track by an African American funk band active from the 1970s through the ’80s is deeply nostalgic for those who lived through the disco era—just hearing it pumps you up, and some people can’t help but start dancing.

The glitzy, psychedelic visuals—so unexpected given the sound—are especially memorable.

Bruno Mars’s “Treasure” music video pays homage to it as well, showing how much it has influenced modern pop.

It’s a winter dance number we sang in December, recalling the fun we had in September.

Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles

Eagles – Hotel California (Live 1977) (Official Video) [HD]

This is a signature song released in 1977 by the Eagles, the pinnacle band of American country and West Coast rock.

Although the place name “California” evokes a bright, summery West Coast image, perhaps because it was released in February of that year and has mysterious content, it’s surprisingly often played on radio music programs in winter.

The beautiful arpeggiated guitar intro, the unforgettable melody line, and the final, exquisite guitar solo—often hailed as one of the greatest in rock guitar history—make for a flawless structure from the very beginning to the end.

Daydream BelieverThe Monkees

The Monkees – Daydream Believer (Official Music Video)

A 1968 hit by The Monkees, an idol group on par with The Beatles.

It’s been covered by numerous artists and even plays in Japanese convenience stores, so it’s a song everyone knows—but the original vocals and sound still shine with an undying brilliance.

Though they came from an audition-based TV show, they ultimately achieved tremendous success.

This captivating piece features Davy Jones delivering a tender vocal performance, set to a melancholic piano sound in a melodious pop ballad.

Last Train to LondonElectric Light Orchestra

Electric Light Orchestra – Last Train to London (Official Video)

Electric Light Orchestra, known by the nickname “ELO,” is a British rock band that was active from the 1970s to the 1980s.

They performed in major arenas and stadium-sized venues, and their live shows were renowned not only for their sonic excellence but also for their flamboyant production featuring giant flying saucers and dazzling laser beams.

It’s truly a grand spectacle of sound and light, and for fans of that era, their concerts are a must-see.

Viva La VidaColdplay

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)

Coldplay, the British rock band that defined the 2000s.

Their songs were frequently used as official themes on TV programs and in commercials, so it might actually be harder to find someone who doesn’t know them.

Among their works, this is a large-scale, ballad-like song.

It won two Grammys in 2009.

With lyrics that include religious themes, and the use of grand strings and percussion, the band presented a renewed vision of their world through this track.

ChancesBackstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys – Chances (Official Video)

An emotionally moving love song by the Backstreet Boys that sings of a grand love between two people who met by a miracle—one in millions.

Leaders of the global music scene since the ’90s, they now weave a story with a mature allure that warmly embraces listeners.

This track was written by the likes of Shawn Mendes, and there’s even an anecdote that the members decided on it instantly after hearing the demo.

Released in November 2018 from their classic album DNA, it drew major attention, including a performance on the popular show The Voice US.

The beautiful visuals filmed at Los Angeles’ Union Station are also a must-see.

If you believe in fateful encounters, this song will gently give you a push forward.