[2026] Trending Western Music: The Latest Hit Songs to Watch

FUNRema

Rema – FUN

Known as an innovator of Afrobeats, Rema delivers a track released in September 2025 that leans into a piano-led, melodic Afropop sound.

Produced by London, it’s distinguished by a light, springy bounce.

Upon release, it debuted at No.

1 on the Afrobeats charts in Nigeria and the UK, and reached No.

5 on Billboard’s Afrobeats Songs chart.

Lyrically, it champions living in the moment while setting aside life’s distractions, conveying his message of maintaining a hardworking core without losing a playful spirit.

It’s a track that feels calm yet deep—perfect for when you want to relax.

TIT FOR TATTate McRae

Tate McRae – TIT FOR TAT (Lyric Video)

Released in September 2025, this track appears on the deluxe edition of Canadian singer-songwriter Tate McRae’s third album, “So Close to What.” Its title is taken from an idiom meaning “revenge” or “retaliation,” and the song carries a defiant message to an ex.

Set to a rhythmic pop sound, it lays out candid feelings about a past relationship and drew attention for being produced in just two weeks.

With forceful language and an assertive, equal-footed stance, it’s a powerful piece that resonates with listeners.

It’s recommended for anyone looking to move on from heartbreak or reclaim their sense of self.

EternityAlex Warren

Alex Warren – Eternity (Official Video)

A breakout star born from social media, American singer-songwriter Alex Warren.

This deeply affecting piece opens his debut album, “You’ll Be Alright, Kid,” released in July 2025.

Carried by an acoustic arrangement, he sings of love for his late parents and a heartfelt wish to reunite with them.

Hearing his deep vocals weave a story of loss will move not only those who have lost someone dear, but also anyone who cherishes the people by their side.

The track became a worldwide hit, peaking at No.

16 on the Billboard Hot 100.

While it conveys profound sorrow, for some listeners it also becomes the ultimate love song—an enchanting track full of that paradoxical charm.

It Depends (ft. Bryson Tiller)Chris Brown

Chris Brown – It Depends (Audio) ft. Bryson Tiller

This is a collaborative track by R&B stars Chris Brown and Bryson Tiller.

It features the smooth melodies characteristic of the American-born Chris Brown, which feel effortlessly pleasing.

The song samples Usher’s classic 1997 track “Nice & Slow” from his landmark album “My Way,” resulting in an R&B number that fuses the vibe of the ’90s with a refined, modern sound.

True to its title—suggesting “it depends on the situation”—the lyrics seem to portray the complex push-and-pull of romance and the nuances of a mature relationship that’s anything but straightforward.

It’s a mellow, slightly bittersweet tune perfect for a moody nighttime drive or a quiet moment alone.

IllegalPinkPantheress

PinkPantheress – Illegal (Official Video)

PinkPantheress, the UK artist still fresh in our minds for her viral TikTok hits! After claiming the top spot in BBC Sound of 2022, she opens her May 2025 mixtape “Fancy That” with this track.

The song delicately portrays the thrill of a forbidden love you’re drawn to despite knowing it’s wrong, interweaving excitement with guilt.

Its airy, drum’n’bass-driven beat paired with her whispery, sweet vocals creates a dreamy, floating atmosphere.

Following her studio album “Heaven Knows,” this narrative-rich work shows a new depth to her storytelling.

It’s perfect for nights when you want to sink into a mysterious world where the line between reality and fantasy blurs.

Untitled (How Does It Feel)D’Angelo

D’Angelo – Untitled (How Does It Feel) (Official Music Video)

In October 2025, neo-soul master D’Angelo passed away.

Following the news of his death, this signature song that etched his name into music history is drawing renewed attention.

Included on his 2000 album Voodoo, the track was created as a tribute to Prince, whom he deeply admired.

Set to a sensual yet delicate 6/8 rhythm, the lyrics ask “How does it feel?” and portray a profound emotional connection that transcends physical intimacy.

There’s also a memorable anecdote that he and Raphael Saadiq crafted it in just about two hours.

It won Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 2001 Grammy Awards and reached No.

25 on the U.S.

charts.

It’s a sublime song best savored during a slow, quiet night.

Oh LordFoxy Shazam

“Peacemaker” Season 2 “Oh Lord” Foxy Shazam Translation Lyrics English/Japanese DCU PEACEMAKER Season 2 Intro Song

Foxy Shazam is a rock band from Cincinnati, Ohio.

Known for theatrical staging reminiscent of Queen and Meat Loaf and their flamboyant sound, their signature track appears on their 2010 major-label debut album, “Foxy Shazam.” It’s stunning in the way it surges from a quiet piano melody into an explosive rock ensemble, highlighting the powerful vocals of Eric Nally.

The song is imbued with a desire to convey life’s joys and pains to his son, centering on fundamental human emotions such as atonement and passion.

Remarkably, in 2025 it was chosen as the opening theme for HBO’s Peacemaker Season 2, bringing the song back into the spotlight 15 years after its release.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who enjoys a Queen-like sound.