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 (1–10)
What Makes You BeautifulNEW!One Direction
A signature song from One Direction’s debut album “Up All Night” that propelled them to global stardom.
It’s also well known for winning the British Single of the Year at the 2012 BRIT Awards.
Born from the songwriter’s real-life experience, the heartwarming message—encouraging a loved one who feels “I’m not beautiful”—never fails to stir the emotions with every listen.
From the intro’s guitar riff it’s irresistibly catchy, and the unforgettable melody is guaranteed to light up any karaoke session.
The chorus is super simple, so even if you’re not confident in your English pronunciation, you can power through it—perfect for a big sing-along.
It’s the ultimate feel-good anthem.
Lose YourselfEminem
The song that American artist Eminem created for the film “8 Mile” became a defining track of his career.
The lyrics, reflecting his own experiences, convey a strong determination to succeed and the courage to overcome adversity.
Released in October 2002, the song was used as the movie’s theme and spent 12 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2003.
It’s a must-listen for anyone striving to achieve their dreams or standing at a crossroads in life.
See You Again (ft. Charlie Puth)Wiz Khalifa
This is a track by American artist Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth, released in March 2015.
It was chosen as the theme song for the film Furious 7 and became a worldwide hit.
Charlie’s emotionally charged falsetto and Khalifa’s conversational rap are truly moving.
The song was also created as a tribute to Paul Walker, who starred in the series, and it carries themes of friendship, loss, and hope for reunion.
Its warm, deeply resonant tone makes it perfect for moments when you’re thinking of someone dear to you.
Crazy In Love ft. JAY ZBeyoncé
The song that marked Beyoncé’s solo debut vividly captures the maddening emotions of falling in love.
Teaming up with her husband, JAY-Z, the American singer released the track in May 2003, and it spent eight consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Its captivating sound—driven by a funky horn section and passionate vocals—grabs listeners’ hearts and doesn’t let go.
With lyrics and a mood anyone who’s been lovestruck can relate to, it’s the perfect tune for boosting your spirits or sinking into a romantic vibe.
SemtemberEarth, Wind & Fire
Known as one of Earth, Wind & Fire’s signature songs, this track was released in September 1978 and is a classic that fuses funk and disco.
Its lyrics, which evoke nostalgia and joyful memories, look back on happy times spent dancing on a September night.
The song has been featured in various media, including the films Night at the Museum and Trolls, and is also popular as a sports anthem.
Its impact is immense, having reached No.
1 on Billboard’s R&B chart.
It can truly be called a historic masterpiece beloved across generations!
Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana
The song released in September 1991 by Nirvana, from Washington State, is an iconic track that brought grunge music to global attention.
Its title—sparked by graffiti written on a wall by one of Kurt Cobain’s friends—captures youthful rebellion and apathy.
Noted for its quiet–loud dynamics, the track appears on the album Nevermind and reached No.
6 on the U.
S.
singles chart.
Its music video also drew major attention, winning two awards at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards.
As a defining anthem of 1990s youth culture, it continues to be loved by many to this day.
Anti-HeroTaylor Swift
A song by American artist Taylor Swift that candidly portrays her inner self is creating a buzz.
Selected from her tenth album, Midnights, the track frankly expresses self-loathing, anxiety, and struggles with fame.
Over a sound that fuses synth-pop and pop rock, Swift declares, “I’m the problem, it’s me.” Released in October 2022, the song set the record for the most Spotify streams in a single day upon its debut.
It reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed in the top 10 for 26 weeks.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone seeking the courage to face themselves.