Western music popular among women in their 40s. World-famous classics and hit songs.

ManiacMichael Sembello

Michael Sembello – Maniac (1983)

An insert song from the film Flashdance, which sparked the aerobics boom in Japan in 1983.

It’s a coming-of-age story about an 18-year-old girl, Alex, who struggles to become a top-tier dancer.

This song, which happened to be included on session musician Michael Sembello’s solo album, became a worldwide hit after being used in the movie.

Can’t Live Without Your Love And AffectionNelson

Nelson – (Can’t Live Without Your) Love And Affection

With their silky long blonde hair and exhilarating twin vocals, the twin brothers Matthew and Gunnar—who left a powerful impression in the ’90s—form the duo Nelson.

This song is their biggest hit.

By the way, the two released their final album, Peace Out, in 2015, bringing 25 years of activity to a close.

Material GirlMadonna

Madonna – Material Girl (Official Video) [HD]

In Western music of the 1980s, Madonna’s success was phenomenal, with an impressive number of hit songs, and she continues to perform energetically and remain at the top even today.

Among her many hits, when it comes to songs that really hype up the 1980s, isn’t it “Material Girl”?

All I Want for Christmas Is YouMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – All I Want For Christmas Is You (Official Video)

When it comes to Mariah Carey songs that are best known among Japanese people and adored by women in their 40s, I think it has to be “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” It was used in the TV drama “29-sai no Christmas,” which I believe boosted its recognition in Japan.

The music video plays often during the Christmas season, and every time I see it, I think, “Mariah Carey was still slim back then.”

Born to RunBruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen – Born to Run at Hard Rock Calling ’09

This song is about how we were born to run and how we’re going to make it to where we’re aiming someday.

The whole track has a real sense of speed, and it feels great.

It’s the kind of song I want to listen to when I’m feeling down or when I think I’ve been stuck lately.

I really admire how Bruce Springsteen manages to stay cool no matter how much time passes.

BeautifulJames Blunt

James Blunt – You’re Beautiful (Official Music Video) [4K]

James Blunt is a singer-songwriter from the United Kingdom and a former member of the military.

Upon its release, this song reached number one in 11 countries around the world.

It expresses unrequited feelings for a beautiful person, and its unforgettable melody and distinctive vocals brim with charm—that’s the secret behind its massive success.

Virtual InsanityJamiroquai

Jamiroquai – Virtual Insanity (Official Video)

Jamiroquai is a British artist.

This song, “Virtual Insanity,” has lyrics that are a bit difficult, but the melody and rhythm are cool.

It was also used in TV commercials and is well known in Japan.