Great English-language songs recommended for women: world classics and popular hits
You might be thinking, “’Good songs’ is way too vague—what does that even mean?” Basically, this is a list of recommended Western songs across all genres (female singers edition).
That said, it leans a bit toward hip-hop and R&B.
Great Western songs recommended for women: World classics and popular tracks (1–10)
Not Even the KingNEW!Alicia Keys
A heartwarming ballad by Alicia Keys, where the piano melody gently resonates.
The song sings about priceless values—trust and love—that even a “king” with wealth and power cannot buy.
More precious than any expensive jewel, it cherishes the happiness of simply being by someone’s side, delivering a lovely message.
Featured on her 2012 album Girl on Fire, the piece is also known for being co-written with Emeli Sandé.
In September of the same year, she performed it solo on piano for a charity program, and her unadorned presence and vocals moved many.
No flashy production needed—why not listen on a quiet White Day evening, nestled close to the one you love?
PLAY THIS SONG (FEAT.ANDERSON .PAAK)Mariah Carey
Should we try to rekindle a finished romance, or let it go completely? Captured as a dialogue between two voices, this track was released in September 2025 as the third single from the album “Here for It All.” It’s a duet with Anderson .Paak, marked by a groovy sound steeped in the spirit of ’70s soul and Motown.
The vivid drums, warm keys, and shimmering chimes weave a vintage texture that evokes the feel of Silk Sonic.
The conversational lyrics convey a realistic, mature relationship.
Eschewing excessive ornamentation, its design draws you in through the interplay of harmony and rhythm, the sense of space, and the underlying chord movements—perfect for deep, attentive listening.
HelloAdele
This song was covered by Taka from ONE OK ROCK, and one of my male students practiced it a lot in our lessons! It was the Taka version, but as he kept practicing, he was able to hit the high notes in the chorus cleanly and comfortably.
So it might be a good practice piece, and it’s also a song that feels amazing to sing once you can do it, so I recommend it! The A and B sections are basically low and gentle, but the chorus jumps into high notes, so the trick is to sing without tensing up.
You might feel like belting, but imagine sending the sound far out.
There are also falsetto ad-libs, so if you keep resonating in the space between your eyebrows and the top of your head, switching between chest voice and falsetto will become smoother.
Try to stay mindful of lifting your facial muscles as you sing!
The RoseBette Midler
The Rose is calm and soothing, and it’s a song that really shines when performed, so it should feel great to sing! When you sing it, breath control is key—you’ll want to let it flow as if you’re speaking throughout.
Try not to break it up too much; aim to sing one phrase at a time so it doesn’t sound choppy and keeps a soft, gentle vibe.
Take a deep breath and try connecting the lines smoothly, as if you’re drawing a large circle forward in front of you.
By the way, The Rose is often chosen for karaoke scoring as well.
The melody is easy to remember, so definitely give it a try!
Perfect To MeAnne-Marie
A heartwarming self-love anthem that gives you a chance to reexamine your true self.
Sung by British artist Anne-Marie, this song carries a gentle message for anyone struggling with insecurities about their appearance or the pressures of societal expectations.
Included on the deluxe edition of her 2018 album “Speak Your Mind,” it later became a beloved single as well.
Centered on themes of self-esteem and body positivity, it powerfully celebrates the importance of embracing yourself just as you are.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you feel your confidence waver in front of the mirror or find yourself discouraged by comparisons with others.
Good Morning BaltimoreNikki Blonsky
The film Hairspray was released in 2007.
The song Good Morning Baltimore appears in the movie and is sung by the heroine, Nikki Blonsky.
Since it’s a musical-style number, it doesn’t feature the kind of complex vocal lines you hear in modern pop.
The vocal range is from mid2 B-flat to high C, so most women should be able to sing it in the original key.
However, because it often shifts directly from regular singing to a more speech-like delivery, it can be hard to score high at karaoke unless you have a good grasp of English intonation.
Take ControlTasha Mac
Many listeners are surely captivated by its sexy, sensual sound and vocals that balance strength with vulnerability.
This track is by Tasha Mack, a singer from Canada based in Los Angeles.
It seems to portray a powerful resolve to take the lead in love and in life.
It will make anyone who listens feel, “I want to carve out my future with my own hands.” Released in March 2022, the song fuses the soul of classic R&B with a modern sheen, giving you the courage to take a step forward on your own.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to quietly on nights when you long to change your circumstances.