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Lovely Western music

Summary of Western pop music: A comprehensive introduction to famous pop songs from overseas.

Countless pop songs have emerged on the Western music scene, captivating music fans around the world.

Beyond catchy, memorable tunes, Western pop delights us in every way—lyrics, singers’ voices, and even the visual aspects like choreography and music videos.

In this article, we’ll introduce a roundup of classic Western pop hits!

From universally known masterpieces to highly recommended tracks, we’ve selected plenty for you to enjoy.

Whether you’re a dedicated fan of Western music or someone who isn’t very familiar with it yet, take this opportunity to give them a listen.

Summary of Western Pop Music: A Comprehensive Introduction to Famous International Pop Songs (41–50)

Hound DogElvis Presley

Elvis Presley – Hound Dog (Official Audio)
Hound DogElvis Presley

Elvis Presley is the best-selling solo artist in the world and a legendary figure who epitomizes rock ’n’ roll.

“Hound Dog,” released in 1956, was a massive hit that ended up as the number-one single of the year.

Its lyrics sharply criticize a playboy—also carrying the meaning of a “womanizer.” The upbeat rock ’n’ roll rhythm really lifts your spirits, and it has a cathartic punch that can blow away a bad mood.

Paired with Elvis Presley’s sexy vocals, enjoy the irresistible groove!

Western pop music roundup: A comprehensive introduction to famous international pop songs (51–60)

Love Me TenderElvis Presley

Elvis Presley – Love Me Tender (Lyrics)
Love Me TenderElvis Presley

When it comes to Elvis Presley’s iconic love songs from the 1950s, Love Me Tender is always mentioned.

It was originally released with new lyrics set to the melody of the American folk song Aura Lee.

As a single, it became an extraordinary hit for the time, surpassing one million copies sold for the first time.

FaithGeorge Michael

George Michael – Faith (Official Video)
FaithGeorge Michael

A solo track by George Michael, the vocalist of Wham!, who also won a Grammy in 1988.

Known in Japan for hits like “Last Christmas,” he released this wonderful pop song after Wham! disbanded.

With a lively rhythm and handclaps, it retains the familiar groove from his band days, making it a very comfortable piece of dance music.

As It WasHarry Styles

Harry Styles – As It Was (Official Video)
As It WasHarry Styles

Songs by UK-born Harry Styles capture listeners’ hearts as if by magic.

This track conveys nostalgia for pre-pandemic everyday life and the struggle with loneliness, expressed through energetic music and a gentle vocal delivery.

Released in April 2022, the song swiftly dominated charts worldwide.

Many outlets, including the BBC and NME, named it one of the best songs of the year.

As the lead single from the album “Harry’s House,” it fully showcases Styles’s wide-ranging musical talents.

It’s highly recommended for anyone seeking a fresh, catchy tune—perfect for a morning drive or a mood boost.

You’re BeautifulJames Blunt

James Blunt – You’re Beautiful (Official Music Video) [4K]
You're BeautifulJames Blunt

At first glance, James Blunt’s song sounds like a straightforward love song, but it actually has a complex backstory.

Released in August 2005 by the British artist, the track became a global hit, reaching number one in ten countries.

Blunt has said he was inspired by a chance encounter on the London Underground, deftly capturing the instant attraction and unattainable longing of that moment.

While portraying the pain of heartbreak and an impossible love, the song is marked by a simple yet powerful melody line.

It was played widely in Japan at the time as well, so that beautiful chorus will make anyone think, “Oh, that song.” With a universal appeal that resonates with many, it’s a highly recommended track for those grappling with love and relationships.

Separate WaysJourney

Journey – Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) (Official HD Video – 1983)
Separate WaysJourney

This is a classic by Journey, a progressive rock band that was active in the United States in the 1970s, with a music video that feels delightfully of its era.

It’s a powerful track with a weighty, driving beat, yet its melody and rhythm carry a wildness that stirs a fire from deep within.

The chorus is a soulful number that has propelled fighting men of every generation.

Rock And Roll All NiteKISS

Kiss – Rock And Roll All Nite (From Kiss eXposed)
Rock And Roll All NiteKISS

Kiss, the hard rock band that represents America.

Their bright, East Coast musical vibe really stands out, doesn’t it? When you think of Kiss, you think of a band with plenty of feel-good hard rock that gets everyone pumped.

Among their songs, one I especially recommend is Rock And Roll All Nite.

I think it’s a track everyone’s heard at least once.

It’s said to be inspired by Slade’s Crazy Mama, and the result is a refreshing, high-voltage hard rock tune.

Be sure to check it out.