An American singer who shocked the world
In Japan, when people say “Western music,” I think they usually mean American music.
In fact, from a commercial standpoint, the American music scene is the largest in the world.
This time, I’ll be introducing American singers.
Rather than simply featuring artists who scored massive hits, I’ve selected those who had a major impact on the music scene.
As a result, you’ll also get to learn about the history of American music.
I’ve selected tracks from a variety of genres—soul, jazz, R&B, hip-hop, hard rock, and more—so please take your time and enjoy.
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- [2025 Edition] Must-Know Popular Female Singers from the United States
- A roundup of great soul music singers and artists
- Legends of soul music: its history and allure revisited through classic songs
- Famous Western music musicians
- Great songs, moving Western music. World-famous and popular songs that resonate with the heart.
- [Western Music] Nostalgic Western songs that everyone has probably heard at least once!
- A lineup of classic hits! Karaoke songs recommended for the yutori generation
- Great English-language songs recommended for women: world classics and popular hits
- [Western Music] The ultimate collection of love songs: a roundup of timeless, heart-touching classics
- Famous Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of classic tunes you’ve heard somewhere before
American singers who shocked the world (11–20)
Rap GodEminem
Eminem is one of the rappers who symbolize 2000s hip-hop.
Even people who aren’t familiar with hip-hop probably know who he is.
His greatest appeal, above all, lies in his exceptional skill.
Among many rappers, he is considered top tier, with overwhelming ability especially in his speed and flow.
His track Rap God is a fast-rap piece that was recognized by Guinness World Records and shocked the world.
Sweet Child O’ MineGuns N’ Roses
A song by Guns N’ Roses, who released numerous hits from the 1980s through the 1990s and still electrify rock fans around the world.
Released as a single from their debut album “Appetite for Destruction,” it’s also known for having been written by vocalist Axl Rose for his then-girlfriend.
Its striking introductory guitar riff and beautiful, gentle melody—somewhat different from the band’s image at the time—were nonetheless embraced by many fans.
It’s a gem of a rock number that reaffirms the band’s depth beyond just hard rock.
Doo-WopLauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill is a female singer-songwriter from the United States who has gained popularity as a highly skilled artist.
In Japan, many people probably first learned about her through the film Sister Act 2.
Her greatest appeal is, without a doubt, her musicality.
For a female singer of her time, her style was unconventional: while rooted in authentic hip-hop, she also possesses the powerful vocal ability of an R&B singer.
Every one of her tracks is exceptionally tasteful, so be sure to check them out.
PsychosocialSlipknot
A track by Slipknot, a U.
S.
metal band whose trademark is a mixture sound that fuses every style and the unique masks each member wears.
It’s the second single cut from their fourth album, All Hope Is Gone, and the guitar riff—laced with controlled pinch harmonics—really ramps up the tension.
While retaining the essence of metal with its heavy sound, technical playing, aggressive growls, and beautiful melodies, it also feels like a contemporary evolution.
It’s a modern metal number packed with the appeal of a band that shocked the world.
Big PoppaThe Notorious B.I.G.
The rapper known as the counterpart to Tupac, The Notorious B.
I.
G.
Any true hip-hop head will know him as a legendary figure representing the East Coast.
Like Tupac, he was caught up in the East Coast–West Coast feud and was assassinated at the young age of 24.
Even after his death, he continues to be respected by many artists.
If you want to get a feel for the East Coast style, why not start by listening to Biggie?
JumpVan Halen
A rock song by Van Halen, the band centered around Edward Van Halen—who, despite revolutionizing rock guitar and influencing guitarists worldwide, sadly passed away in 2020.
Released as a single from their sixth album, 1984, it became the band’s first No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100, bringing the Van Halen name to a wide audience beyond rock fans.
Its catchy keyboard riff and virtuosic guitar work are so impactful that it’s no surprise the more pop-leaning arrangement has become the most famous version.
Even today, it’s cherished as an immortal classic and a defining rock tune in music history.
American singers (21–30) who shocked the world
ForeverChris Brown
Chris Brown, the American artist who captivates the world with a sound that fluidly traverses R&B, pop, and hip-hop.
In 2005, at just 15 years old, his debut single “Run It!” made the extraordinary achievement of shooting straight to the top of the U.
S.
charts.
He has since cemented his superstar status with hits like “No Guidance” and “Go Crazy.” With more than 40 awards, including a Grammy, his exceptional talent is undeniable.
His curiosity knows no bounds, incorporating elements like Afrobeats on albums such as 11:11.
His performances—an exquisite blend of outstanding dance and silky vocals—are perfect for anyone who wants to feel both heart and body move to groovy sounds.