Lovely spring song

[2026] Western songs to listen to in May: Introducing heart-fluttering masterpieces

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Active club DJkento
Active club DJ. With over five years on the front lines of the club scene, they freely cross over from dance music to US hip-hop and Japanese rap. Blending in their own edits with assured mixing, they craft a unique groove that captivates the floor.

Speaking of May, it’s Golden Week—a season that’s a delight for working people and students alike.

That said, as the term “May blues” suggests, it can also be a time when you feel a bit lethargic after a long holiday.

So here are some classic Western songs perfect for May to lift your spirits!

From powerful tracks that give a push to those still feeling uneasy a month into their new routines, to chill tunes ideal for a leisurely afternoon tea on a day off, and songs that make great driving BGM during the holiday—there’s plenty to enjoy.

From the latest hits to timeless classics, enjoy!

[2026] Western songs to listen to in May: Introducing heart-fluttering masterpieces (61–70)

Every Summertimeniki

NIKI – Every Summertime (Official Video)

Every Summertimeniki

A bittersweet coming-of-age story spun by NIKI, an artist from Jakarta, Indonesia.

This heartwarming song gently captures universal moments of love—like tender memories with a partner she met in America and the nervousness of introducing a boyfriend to her father for the first time.

Included on the soundtrack album for Marvel’s film Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, it was released in August 2021 and climbed the charts across various Asian countries.

It also comes with the remarkable anecdote of having been created in just one hour.

Its bright, poppy rhythm is perfect for a May afternoon drive under fresh green leaves or as background music for a weekend picnic.

With a soothing melody that wraps around the feeling of being in love, it stays close to the heart.

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Pocketful of SunshineNatasha Bedingfield

Natasha Bedingfield – Pocketful of Sunshine (Official Video)

Pocketful of SunshineNatasha Bedingfield

Natasha Bedingfield is a pop singer from the UK.

She may not be very familiar to audiences in Japan, but she’s one of the most popular artists in Britain, and her brother, Daniel Bedingfield, is also active as an artist.

Her hit song “Pocketful of Sunshine” portrays escaping to an extraordinary place to refresh and recharge.

The lyrics are a perfect fit for May, with its many long weekends, so be sure to check it out.

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Good 4 UOlivia Rodrigo

Olivia Rodrigo – good 4 u (Official Video)

Good 4 UOlivia Rodrigo

A refreshing breakup song crafted by Olivia Rodrigo from the United States.

Since its release in May 2021, the track has garnered widespread acclaim around the world, candidly expressing the complex emotions that follow a breakup.

It portrays the protagonist’s inner conflict as she watches her ex move on to a new love, all set to an energetic sound infused with punk rock elements.

Included on the album SOUR, the song weaves anger, sadness, and bitingly ironic well-wishes into a finely balanced whole that resonates deeply with listeners.

It’s perfect for blowing away lingering frustration during a morning jog or commute, and it’s also recommended as a gentle push for anyone looking to recover from the pain of heartbreak.

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Counting StarsOneRepublic

OneRepublic – Counting Stars

Counting StarsOneRepublic

It’s a folk-pop song by the American pop rock band OneRepublic, set to a disco beat.

Released in 2013, the track became one of their biggest hits, and its music video has been viewed over 1.6 billion times on YouTube.

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Shooting StarOwl City

Owl City – Shooting Star

Shooting StarOwl City

Owl City is the solo project of Adam Young.

He’s an artist known for an electronic sound centered on synth-pop and has collaborated with major names like Carly Rae Jepsen.

His famous song “Shooting Star,” released in 2012, carries the message that even when bad things happen, the sun will rise again.

It’s perfect for May, when it’s easy to feel a bit down.

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