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

20th Century BoyT-REX

T Rex – 20th Century Boy

It was also the theme song for the movie 20th Century Boys.

On your 50th birthday, why not pull out your guitar for the first time in a while and play it, feeling like you’re back in your youth? Your family might be surprised if you perform it in front of them, but it could be a chance to start a conversation with a rebellious teenager.

Let It BeThe Beatles

The Beatles – Let It Be – Let It Be (STEREO REMASTERED)

For those in their 50s who want a relaxing birthday, we present classic Beatles songs.

Many people may remember them as the soundtrack to life’s milestones, like graduations and weddings.

They’re perfect for reflecting on the life you’ve lived and the life that lies ahead.

I Do It for YouBryan Adams

Bryan Adams – (Everything I Do) I Do It For You – Live 2009

This song, which was used in the Kevin Costner–starring film Robin Hood, inevitably carries a strong association with the movie, but the melody is so beautiful that I’m completely captivated by it.

Bryan Adams’s voice is sexy and really resonates in the heart, doesn’t it?

Time is on my sideThe Rolling Stones

Time is on my side – The Rolling Stones

As a Rolling Stones song that’s easy for men in their 50s to sing, I’d recommend “Time Is on My Side,” which isn’t all that famous.

It’s a somewhat bright ballad with a touch of melancholy and a mature vibe, and it downplays the typical Stones style.

A few years ago, Kenji Sawada sang it in a commercial, and I remember thinking it was really cool.

HonestyBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Honesty (Audio)

In the 1980s, the American singer Billy Joel was hugely popular in Japan as well.

This song is one of his signature ballads.

Beginning with a beautiful piano intro, it sings about the difficulty of staying honest in a dishonest world, and its message resonates deeply, amplified by his vocal delivery.

I’ve Never Been To MeCharlene

Charlene – I’ve Never Been To Me (1977/1982)

The original was sung by Randy Crawford, but isn’t this version sung by Charlene more famous? Known in Japan under the title “Ai wa Kagerō no Yō ni” (“Love Is Like a Heat Haze”), it’s a classic ballad where the gentle vocals shine against a beautiful melody.

Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love For YouGeorge Benson

NOTHING’S GONNA CHANGE MY LOVE FOR YOU (with lyrics) – GEORGE BENSON

George Benson has been active for many years as both a singer and a jazz guitarist.

This is his ballad also known by the Japanese title “Unchanging Feelings.” Its message of unwavering love, delivered in his gentle voice, deeply resonates with the heart.