Recommended Western music for men in their 50s: world classics and popular songs

Tie A Yellow Ribon Round The Old Oak TreeDawn

The Yellow Ribbon of Happiness / Dawn Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree / Dawn

Dawn is a vocal group consisting of the male singer Tony Orlando and two female singers.

Their song “Tony Orlando and Dawn” became a hit in 1971.

Then, “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree,” released in 1973, was a massive success, reaching No.

1 on Billboard’s year-end chart for 1973.

This song served as the motif for the Japanese film “The Yellow Handkerchief of Happiness.”

When A Man Loves A WomanPercy Sledge

Percy Sledge – When A Man Loves A Woman (Live)

Percy Sledge was an American singer, an artist who made a remarkable impact in R&B and soul and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

“When a Man Loves a Woman” is his signature song.

It was his debut single in 1966, reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and has continued to be cherished as a classic love song to this day.

It has been widely covered; notably, Michael Bolton’s 1991 cover also reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100, just like the original.

Sweet TrapCheap Trick

Sweet Trap — Cheap Trick

If you’re a rock-loving man in your 50s, you might know Cheap Trick.

Since their songs are straightforward, how about singing the song titled “I Want You to Want Me” to a woman? In Japanese it can be embarrassing, but in English you might be able to say it.

My song is your songElton John

My Song Is Your Song (Your Song) – Elton John, Your Song – Elton John

In his private life, Elton John is known as a homosexual, but he’s a very emotionally rich person who composes many beautiful melodies, isn’t he? The line “How wonderful life is while you’re in the world” — how wonderful life is because you’re in this world — is truly beautiful, isn’t it?

I wanna knowForeigner

Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is (Official Music Video)

This gently soulful ballad really feels like a song for grown-ups.

The lyrics say something like, “Because there are so many hardships, I want to know what true love is.” And yes—if you have love, you can overcome hardship! That’s the faith I want to live by.

Shining Star of DreamsManhattans

The Manhattans – Shining Star (Video) ft. Gerald Alston, Blue Lovett

The Manhattans debuted in the 1960s, but this song became a big hit in 1980.

“Honey, you are my shining star”—meaning “You’re my shining, radiant star”—has simple lyrics, but with its slow, gentle melody, it really warms the heart, doesn’t it?

Lonely Night All AlonePaul McCartney

Paul McCartney – No More Lonely Nights (Official Music Video)

Paul McCartney, ultra-famous from The Beatles, has been writing gentler songs since the Beatles era, like Hey Jude and Yesterday.

This track also pairs his soft voice with a tender melody, making it perfect to enjoy as a love song.