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!
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Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of famous tunes you’ve heard somewhere (31–40)
Can’t Take My Eyes Off YouBoys Town Gang
A classic that almost everyone has heard at least once—the Boys Town Gang cover version.
Released in 1982, the song topped the charts in several European countries, including the Netherlands and Belgium.
It’s characterized by an energetic rhythm that lights up the dance floor and a catchy melody.
It’s often used in commercials and TV shows as background music, and it’s also a karaoke staple.
This American group enjoyed major popularity in the 1980s.
It’s a track anyone can joyfully dance to, making it perfect for livening up parties and events.
I Was Born To Love YouQueen
The song by the British band Queen was released in 1985 as a solo work by Freddie Mercury.
Characterized by a driving melody and passionate vocals, it sings of unconditional love for a beloved person.
After Freddie’s death, Queen re-edited the track and included it on the 1995 album Made in Heaven.
In Japan, it was used in 1996 for a Kirin Ichiban Shibori commercial, and in 2004 it was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama Pride.
Even those not familiar with Western music have likely heard it on TV or in commercials.
It’s a perfect song for when you want to feel positive or need a boost of energy.
FlowersMiley Cyrus
The song released in January 2023 by Miley Cyrus, who hails from the United States, carries a powerful message about independence and self-love.
It celebrates the beauty of valuing yourself, overcoming past relationships and emotional scars.
Its sound blends pop, R&B, and soul, and Cyrus’s versatile vocals leave a strong impression.
The track became a global hit, topping the Billboard Global 200 chart and reaching number one in 38 countries.
It’s a perfect song for anyone who has experienced heartbreak or is figuring out how to face themselves.
For many, this is the song that comes to mind when they think of Western pop music in 2023.
I’m YoursJason Mraz
The light, airy arpeggios of an acoustic guitar pour down like rays of sunshine.
It’s a gem by American singer-songwriter Jason Mraz.
This piece sings, over a sound that weaves in comfortable elements of reggae and folk, of the resolve to offer one’s true self to a loved one and the joy of living in the present.
Released in May 2008, it set a then-record by staying on the Billboard Hot 100 for 76 consecutive weeks as the lead single from the album “We Sing.
We Dance.
We Steal Things.” In Japan, it became widely loved as the song for a Kirin Beer commercial.
It will gently stay by your side when your heart is weary or when you’re about to open a new door.
Isn’t She LovelyStevie Wonder
When it comes to heartwarming love songs that celebrate the birth of a baby, many people probably think of this one.
Included on Stevie Wonder’s 1976 album “Songs in the Key of Life,” the song was written to celebrate the birth of his daughter, Aisha.
The baby’s cries and the sounds of splashing water heard in the track are said to be recordings of Aisha herself.
Filled with the joy and emotion of becoming a parent, it remains a beloved classic for weddings and baby celebrations.
In fact, among Wonder’s songs, this one is especially popular in Japan.
Western songs everyone knows: a collection of famous tunes you’ve heard somewhere (41–50)
All StarSmash Mouth
The American rock band Smash Mouth released a song in May 1999 that has the power to energize listeners.
With its catchy melody and positive lyrics, it emphasizes the importance of believing in your potential and taking action.
Featured on the album Astro Lounge, it reached as high as No.
4 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It was also used as the opening theme for the 2001 film Shrek.
Despite its bright tone, the song’s layered content also touches on environmental issues.
It’s a recommended track when you want to look ahead and do your best, or when you need a boost of energy.
Just the Two of Us (feat. Bill Withers)Grover Washington Jr.
American saxophonist Grover Washington Jr.
is one of the pioneers of the smooth jazz genre.
This piece, featuring Bill Withers, can be called a crossover masterpiece in which jazz and R&B blend beautifully.
The poetic words contributed by Bill Withers evoke intimate moments shared with a loved one and gentle feelings of mutual affection, bringing warmth to the listener’s heart.
Released in February 1981, the song appears on the acclaimed album Winelight and reached No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
At the Grammy Awards, the song won Best R&B Song, and the album won Best Jazz Fusion Performance.
Beloved across generations, it has even been used to promote the film Deadpool & Wolverine.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to be wrapped in soothing tones or spend special time with someone dear.