Famous Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of classic tunes you’ve heard somewhere before
For those who mainly listen to Japanese music, foreign songs might not feel very familiar.
However, these days, hit Western tracks are used all over the place—as BGM for TV shows and social media videos, in commercials, and more—so even people who don’t usually listen to Western music have probably heard plenty of it.
In this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of those universally recognizable Western songs all at once.
You’ll likely find tracks you’ve heard but never knew the title of, as well as songs whose titles or artist names you’ve seen but never actually listened to.
Take this opportunity to discover the appeal of Western music!
- [TikTok] “I know this chorus!” A roundup of popular Western songs on TikTok [2025]
- [Western Music] Nostalgic Western songs that everyone has probably heard at least once!
- [2025] Western Music You’ve Heard at Least Once — From Trending New Tracks to Timeless Classics
- Timeless Western pop classics that stick in your ears: Hit songs flowing through everyone’s hearts [2025]
- Stylish Western music: Chic hidden gems that only the in-the-know recognize make an appearance!
- Emotional Western Music Special | Handpicked from All Generations
- Songs that motivate you to study Western music. World-famous classics and popular hits.
- Beautiful, lovely Western music. A roundup of recommended classic songs.
- 2025: Classic Western Songs Recommended for Middle School Students (English Songs)
- Western songs that high school students like. Classic and popular hits from overseas.
- [2025] Moving Western songs that touch the heart: A roundup of recommended masterpieces
- Western songs we want elementary school students to listen to: recommended classics and hit tracks
- Fun Western pop songs—tunes that make you feel happy just by listening
Famous Western songs everyone knows: A compilation of classic tunes you’ve heard somewhere (21–30)
I Really Like YouCarly Rae Jepsen
It’s a catchy pop tune that makes you want to hum along.
Released in March 2015 by Canadian artist Carly Rae Jepsen, the track features a refreshing sound reminiscent of 1980s synth-pop.
The lyrics candidly capture the feelings of an early-stage romance, revealing both strong affection and a hint of anxiety.
In Japan, it was used as a commercial song for LINE MUSIC and gained attention through a commercial featuring actress Nana Komatsu.
It’s sure to brighten your morning commute or school run and give a lively start to your day.
Fight SongRachel Platten
This song, which carries the message “It’s okay, I can still fight,” is a worldwide hit released in 2015 by American artist Rachel Platten.
Reflecting her own struggles and hopes in her music career, it resonated with many people and was used in a variety of contexts.
It was frequently played during Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign and became an iconic track.
Its universal theme of believing in one’s inner strength and moving forward without giving up likely struck a chord with countless listeners.
Even those who aren’t very familiar with Western pop music have probably heard it at least once!
Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of famous tunes you’ve heard somewhere (31–40)
bad guyBillie Eilish
Billie Eilish, an artist from the United States, has songs that are massive hits around the world.
Released in March 2019, this track stands out for its unique sense of rhythm and catchy melody—it’s unforgettable once you hear it.
The distinctive low bassline makes even those who aren’t very into music find themselves naturally keeping the beat.
The lyrics portray a bold, provocative woman, making it a song packed with her allure.
Paired with Billie Eilish’s uniquely expressive vocals, it’s easy to see why the track is loved by such a wide audience.
Even if you don’t usually listen to Western pop, why not take this opportunity to give it a listen?
Shake It OffTaylor Swift
Even if you’ve never actually listened to Taylor Swift’s songs, many of you probably still know them, right? This track is included on her album 1989, released in October 2014, and it marked a turning point toward pop music.
With a bright, catchy feel and a distinctive saxophone line, its memorable melody easily sticks in your head.
The song carries a message about not being swayed by negative opinions and moving forward with your head held high.
It’s the perfect pick-me-up when you want a change of pace or a boost of energy!
ThrillerMichael Jackson
A story about terrifying creatures that appear only in the dead of night, and the resolve to protect a loved one from those eerie monsters.
It’s a track from the album Thriller, released in November 1982 by Michael Jackson from the United States.
The music video is a film-like work running a full 14 minutes, memorable for its zombie dance.
It caused a sensation on MTV at the time and won eight awards at the 1984 Grammys.
Listening to it as Halloween approaches sends a chill down your spine while stirring a powerful determination to protect the one you love.
FireworkKaty Perry
When it comes to signature songs by American pop icon Katy Perry, this one is undoubtedly it.
With a chorus that swells in the most satisfying way, it’s a standout anthem of the 2010s.
Released in October 2010, it became a massive global hit, topping the Billboard charts.
Carrying a message about cherishing your true self, it resonates with people from all walks of life.
It’s also been widely used in TV commercials and as a movie insert song, shining in a variety of settings.
I highly recommend it as a track that gives you courage when you’re feeling down or losing confidence.
Killing Me Softly With His SongRoberta Flack
It’s a landmark R&B classic that almost everyone has heard at least once.
Sung by American artist Roberta Flack, the song is marked by its gently enveloping melody and deeply resonant lyrics.
Released in January 1973, it spent five consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The following year, it achieved the remarkable feat of winning three Grammy Awards.
Its lyrics, which portray a woman who deeply identifies with the performer’s delivery, have continued to captivate listeners.
In Japan, it’s well known from a Nescafé commercial, and its Japanese title, “Yasashiku Utatte” (literally, “Sing Gently”), may be even more familiar.