RAG Music
Lovely Western music

Hidden gems of Western music. Lesser-known songs.

This time, I’m introducing hidden gems from Western music!

When you see an article like this, some of you might think, “Come on, it’s just a bunch of famous hits by big-name artists, right?”

Honestly, I feel disappointed too when I come across pieces like that.

But don’t worry!

This time, I’ve put together genuinely high-class, tasteful tracks.

The first half features standout songs by artists with a certain level of recognition and serious talent, while the second half dives into ultra-obscure, super-stylish gems.

Even those who know Western music inside out will find several tracks they’ve never heard of—so be sure to check them out!

Hidden gems in Western music: Lesser-known songs (1–10)

I Love U in MePrince

Prince, the legendary artist who gained worldwide popularity with his wide-ranging musicality.

Younger people may not know him, but in the 1980s, when he was at his peak, he stood as a counterpart to Michael Jackson.

A hidden gem by Prince is “I Love U in Me.” It’s a work packed with the essence of his music, and Andy Allo, known as his protégé, has also covered it.

The title, which suggests that a lover is as important as oneself, leaves a strong impression.

I Love You More Than You’ll Ever KnowDonny Hathaway

Singer-songwriter Donny Hathaway, who, along with Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, helped fuel the neo-soul boom of the 1970s.

He actively covered songs by white artists, which made a significant contribution to challenging racial discrimination at the time.

His signature songs include the classics A Song For You and This Christmas.

While I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know didn’t become a major hit like those tracks, its sophisticated soul sound earned high praise from core fans.

Muddy WatersLP

LP – Muddy Waters (Official Audio)
Muddy WatersLP

LP is a female singer-songwriter whose 2015 release “Lost On You” became an enormous global hit and earned her worldwide acclaim.

She is openly lesbian, and her cool, striking presence appeals even to men, while her popularity among women is especially remarkable.

One of her hidden gems is “Muddy Waters.” It’s fairly well known, but since it was released around the same time as “Lost On You,” many people may not be familiar with it.

Cette journéeZAZ

Cette journée (Sur la route Live 2015)
Cette journéeZAZ

Zaz is a quintessential French national artist—often likened to a modern-day Édith Piaf—and she’s loved by many listeners.

Her signature song is “Je veux,” and for many people, that’s how they first discovered her.

However, because her musical style is quite diverse, there aren’t actually that many songs like “Je veux.” The track “Cette journée” is one of her hidden gems, crafted with an antique-style melody reminiscent of “Je veux.” Be sure to check it out.

ToxicYael Naim

Yael Naim is a singer who represents Israel—an artist known to those in the know.

When it comes to her signature work, it has to be “New Soul,” right? It gained instant attention after being used in an Apple commercial.

While many people find “New Soul” catchy, her musical style is actually quite edgy.

A hidden gem of hers is “Toxic,” a dark track crafted with a gothic atmosphere.