[Many Hit Songs Featured!!] Western Music That Was Popular in 2021
Speaking of 2021, although the effects of COVID-19 were still lingering, wouldn’t you say it was a bright year for many Japanese people?
The biggest reason has to be sports!
In the World Cup, Japan’s national team notched eight straight wins; Shohei Ohtani shone as a two-way player and won MVP; and the Olympics were held in Japan—overall, it was a year full of uplifting sports news.
This time, I’d like to introduce some Western songs that were popular in 2021.
It was also a year with many hit tracks, so if you like Western music, don’t miss this!
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[Many hit songs featured!!] Western songs that were popular in 2021 (1–10)
ButterBTS
BTS, the globally popular Korean boy group.
Released in May 2021, this track is a refreshing dance-pop number.
Its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm are memorable, with an irresistible charm that naturally makes listeners want to dance.
The music video quickly racked up views on YouTube right after its release, becoming a major talking point.
Bursting with a breezy energy that blows away the summer heat, it’s perfect for a mood boost.
Be sure to check out this song packed with everything that makes BTS so appealing.
Leave the Door OpenBruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic
This song is packed with the charm of Silk Sonic.
As a signature work by the duo of Bruno Mars and Anderson .
Paak, it features melodies strongly influenced by 1970s soul music.
The lyrics portray a romantic man wooing a woman, while also revealing a surprisingly cute side.
Released in March 2021, the track drew major attention as the lead single from the album “An Evening with Silk Sonic.” Its sweet vocals and smooth grooves are perfect for a summer night spent with a lover.
It’s a must-listen not only for soul music fans but for listeners of all generations.
MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)Lil Nas X
This track by American rapper Lil Nas X, released in March 2021, is a standout work with a distinctive sound.
It blends hip-hop and Latin-style melodies to great effect, featuring a catchy, memorable rhythm.
The track opens with an impressive guitar riff that showcases Lil Nas X’s unique artistic vision.
The lyrics speak candidly about his identity and emphasize the importance of free self-expression.
Beloved by many fans, the song achieved major success on the Billboard charts.
It’s recommended not only for hip-hop listeners but also for anyone seeking fresh, new forms of music.
[Many hit songs appear!!] Western music that was popular in 2021 (11–20)
abcdefuGAYLE
GAYLE’s track, which took the world by storm especially among teenagers, exploded in popularity through TikTok.
Its frank, straight-shooting lyrics pack the pain and frustration of heartbreak, resonating particularly with young listeners.
With punk rock elements woven throughout, its driving feel and rhythm instantly captivate.
The song pairs a provocative message to an ex with a softness reminiscent of affection for a dog, creating a striking contrast.
Released in August 2021, it topped the U.
S.
iTunes chart.
Watching or listening on video and music platforms lets you experience its overwhelming individuality and power.
drivers licenseOlivia Rodrigo
American singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo made a powerful impression with her debut single.
Released in January 2021, the song lays bare the pain of heartbreak and the journey of growth.
Characterized by a piano-driven, atmospheric sound, it builds from hushed whispers to a soaring, cathartic chorus that deeply stirs listeners.
The track received high acclaim, ranking third on Billboard’s 2021 list of the “100 Greatest Song Bridges of the 21st Century.” It’s highly recommended for anyone who relates to the uncertainties of youth and the bittersweetness of love.
Kiss Me More ft. SZADoja Cat
Influenced by disco, this pop song was released in April 2021 and drew attention as a collaboration between Doja Cat and SZA.
It blends a nostalgic vibe with contemporary trends that captivate listeners.
The track celebrates the freedom of youth and a deep attraction to one another, emphasizing expressions of love that aren’t bound by social expectations.
Within weeks of its release, the music video surpassed 29.
3 million views, and many critics hailed it as one of the best songs of 2021.
Its appeal lies in the fusion of a smooth groove, a memorable melody, and polished rap.
Back In Blood (feat. Lil Durk)Pooh Shiesty
I think many people who like hip-hop are especially into G-funk.
The track I want to introduce is Back In Blood (feat.
Lil Durk).
It’s a song by the rapper Pooh Shiesty featuring Lil Durk.
The lyrics depict the conflicts between rival factions and a chain of retaliation, conveying both the horror and the futility of it all.
It can also be read as an antithesis to the kind of beefs nowadays that end with exchanges on social media—pay close attention to those lyrics!