[Oldies] A collection of nostalgic hit songs from Western music of the 1950s
When you hear “Western music from the 1950s,” what kind of songs come to mind?
Hits from the 1950s and 1960s are sometimes called “oldies,” and perhaps because their retro vibe feels stylish, you’ll often hear them as in-store BGM at cafes and vintage clothing shops.
That said, since it’s music from 70 years ago, you might think it has nothing to do with you… For those who feel that way, this article rounds up and introduces classic 1950s Western songs across genres—rock, soul, blues, and more.
You’ll definitely come across some tunes you’ve heard before, so be sure to check them out!
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[Oldies] A Collection of Classic Western Hits from the Nostalgic 1950s (21–30)
April LovePat Boone
A gem of a love song that dramatically celebrates the joy of a new romance blossoming with the arrival of spring.
Released in September 1957 by American singer Pat Boone as a movie theme song, it became a massive hit, spending six consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard charts.
Boone’s gentle, clear vocals blend beautifully with Billy Vaughn’s elegant, jazz-tinged arrangement, creating a warm atmosphere that tenderly envelops the pure feelings of young love.
The song also colored memorable scenes in the film April Love, in which Boone starred, and the film was nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards the following year.
It’s a romantic ballad perfect for a tranquil spring afternoon, to be savored in the comfort of soft sunlight.
You Send MeSam Cooke
A gem of a love song that deserves to be called a towering monument of soul music, its sweet, angelic tenor vocals sink deep into the heart.
Released in September 1957 as the solo debut of American singer Sam Cooke, the song became a smash hit, topping both the R&B and Pop categories on the Billboard charts at the time.
The lyrics gently trace the emotional arc from the thrill of falling in love to the vow of eternal devotion, perfectly matched by Cooke’s smooth, expressive singing.
Featured in films such as American Pop and Sweet Dreams (starring Jessica Lange), it remains a timeless ode to love that continues to resonate with anyone who has ever been in love.
Ooby DoobyRoy Orbison
The artist who made a striking debut on the 1950s rock ’n’ roll scene was American musician Roy Orbison.
Blending rockabilly with rock ’n’ roll, the song features a buoyant rhythm, powerful vocals, and a memorable guitar solo that come together in perfect harmony.
Reportedly written in just 15 minutes, it brilliantly captures the joy of dance and music, vividly portraying lovers moving to the beat.
Released by Sun Records in 1956, it reached No.
59 on the Billboard chart and sold around 200,000 copies.
In 1987, it was performed live alongside Bruce Springsteen and Elvis Costello, proving its cross-generational appeal.
With its bright, open atmosphere, this track is an ideal pick-me-up and a perfect BGM choice for parties.
Who’s Sorry NowConnie Francis
A mature love song that delicately depicts the pain of heartbreak was brilliantly revived by Connie Francis from the United States, breathing new life into a classic originally born in 1923.
Recorded at her father’s strong urging, this rendition tenderly wraps the betrayed lover’s complex emotions in a richly expressive vocal performance.
Released in November 1957, it reached No.
4 on the U.
S.
Billboard chart in April 1958, and spent six consecutive weeks at No.
1 in the UK, becoming one of her signature songs.
Rearranged from a dance-hall waltz into 12/8 time, the track blends a relaxed tempo with an inner strength—perfect for soothing the ache of love.
For anyone striving to overcome the aftershocks of a broken heart, this warmly comforting song offers quiet companionship.
Rockin’ Around The Christmas TreeBrenda Lee
Known as an essential classic of the Christmas season, this work is an ambitious piece sung by American artist Brenda Lee at the age of 13.
It vividly portrays lively holiday scenes around the Christmas tree, set to a brisk, rockabilly-style sound, and possesses a timeless appeal that transcends generations.
Released by Decca Records in November 1958, it gained renewed attention when it was featured in the 1990 film Home Alone.
In December 2023, 65 years after its release, it reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time.
Achieving this at age 78 set the record for the oldest artist ever to top the chart.
It’s a perfect song to elevate the Christmas mood, bringing warmth to family gatherings and party scenes alike.
There Goes My BabyThe Drifters
A classic song filled with gentle melodies and aching romance was delivered by The Drifters in 1959.
With a groundbreaking sound that beautifully blends R&B, doo-wop, and soul, it tells the story of a man’s anguish and regret as he faces a breakup with his lover.
Vivid string arrangements pair exquisitely with the Brazilian rhythmic patterns that were popular at the time, propelling the song to No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No.
1 on the R&B chart.
It garnered wide acclaim, even being featured in the musical Smokey Joe’s Cafe.
This track is perfect for those who want to slowly immerse themselves in music at a quiet café or reminisce about moments with someone special.
Let its nostalgic atmosphere and warm vocals wrap around you and enjoy a heartwarming moment.
Wake Up Little SusieThe Everly Brothers
A quintessential rock ’n’ roll classic of the 1950s was created by the American duo the Everly Brothers in September 1957.
It’s a coming-of-age story that captures the urgent worries of a high school couple who doze off at the movie theater, expressed through a driving rhythm and the gorgeous harmonies only brothers can deliver.
After its release, it topped both the U.
S.
pop and country charts, and was ranked 318th on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” The song has been covered by many artists, including Simon & Garfunkel, and is frequently used as background music in films and TV dramas depicting young love and friendship.
It’s a perfect pick to set an uplifting mood—whether for a nighttime drive, a party, or a relaxing moment at a café.