Updated daily! Today's featured Western music picks!

Rock N RollAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – Rock N Roll (Official Video)

This is the music of Avril Lavigne, the queen of rock who has a huge fan base in Japan as well.

Many people probably know her since her songs were also used in TV shows.

Because many of her tracks are classic, straight-ahead rock, even those who don’t understand English can enjoy the vibe.

Top Of The WorldGreek Fire

Greek Fire – Top Of The World (Official video)

It was used in a commercial for the Disney animated film Big Hero 6.

It’s not the theme song or an insert song, but it is included on the soundtrack.

Because the lyrics contain many negative expressions, it seems it wasn’t chosen as the theme song.

FireworkKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Firework (Official Music Video)

A dance-pop track released in 2010 by Katy Perry.

The music video, which won an MTV Video Music Award, was filmed in Budapest, Hungary.

It was sampled in DJ Earworm’s 2011 track “World Go Boom.”

All I Want For Christmas Is YouMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – All I Want For Christmas Is You (Official Video)

A signature work by Mariah Carey, loved around the world as a song that brightens the Christmas season.

Released in October 1994, it’s a holiday staple whose popularity reignites every Christmas.

With lyrics that weave tender, bittersweet feelings for a lover through her sweet vocals and a festive sound highlighted by sleigh bells, it instantly elevates the Christmas mood.

In Japan, it’s affectionately known by the title “Koibito-tachi no Christmas” and was used as a TV drama theme song.

It’s also perfect to listen to while tidying up or cleaning—sure to make the work fly by in a cheerful mood.

The IslandPendulum

Pendulum – The Island – Pt. I (Dawn) (Official Video)

Pendulum, known for their upbeat electronic music, are also used as insert songs in various programs across the country.

As EDM, they’re sometimes played as club hits and are said to be very popular.

The synthesizer melodies and overall style are really cool.

HappyPharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams – Happy (Official Music Video)

It was a massive hit for a while, and I imagine many people heard it everywhere around town.

With its rhythmic melody and jazzy home-session vibe, it’s a very stylish track.

The groove is great, so even people who don’t usually listen to Western music might find it easy to enjoy.

Dani CaliforniaRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Dani California [Official Music Video]

It was used as the theme song for the anime version of the movie Death Note, which was remade in Japan in 2016 and released in theaters again.

I’m surprised that such a famous foreign singer was used.

The somewhat dark feel of the song matches the anime.