New songs are being released every day not only in Japan but around the world, and hit tracks keep being born.
So this time, we’re putting the spotlight on Western music!
We’re going to introduce a bunch of songs that are especially popular with Gen Z.
From high-energy party tunes to mellow ballads, we’ve carefully selected tracks from a wide range of genres.
There are both nostalgic classics and the latest hits, so if you’re a Gen Z fan of Western music, you’ll definitely relate.
Let’s dive in!
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Western music popular with Gen Z. Hit songs (1–10)
APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars
A song inspired by the Korean drinking game “Apatu” is creating a buzz.
Teaming up, BLACKPINK’s Rosé and Bruno Mars deliver a lively sound that fuses pop and rock.
It beautifully balances a nostalgic vibe with a modern sensibility.
Released in October 2024, the track garnered attention as the lead single from Rosé’s debut studio album, “rosie.” It has made a huge splash worldwide, including holding No.
1 on the Billboard Global 200 for five consecutive weeks.
It’s a magical song that turns fun memories with friends and fleeting everyday moments into something special.
Highly recommended for Gen Z when you want to amp up a party or hangout with friends.
PhotographEd Sheeran
It’s a work whose lyrics and theme resonate with younger generations.
The long-distance relationship theme in the lyrics has struck a chord with Gen Z listeners as well.
Included on Ed Sheeran’s second album, × (Multiply), it was released as a single in May 2015.
It became a massive hit, reaching the top 10 in 13 countries, including the US and the UK.
The music video uses family footage depicting Ed Sheeran’s growth, moving many viewers.
It’s a recommended song for times when you’re separated from a loved one or want to look back on precious memories.
A beautiful track that truly touches the heart.
See You AgainWiz Khalifa
This song is also highly popular as a movie track.
It’s a song by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth.
It was produced for the soundtrack of the film Furious 7, released in March 2015.
The lyrics, themed around friendship and strong bonds, really resonate.
It is also notable for expressing a tribute to actor Paul Walker, who passed away during the filming.
Members of Gen Z in particular likely heard this song quite often.
Shape of YouEd Sheeran
Hugely popular with Gen Z, this track also went viral on TikTok and Instagram.
Its lyrics, which portray a romance with a woman met at a bar, and its catchy melody spread across social media and captured many hearts.
Released in January 2017, the song appeared as a single from Ed Sheeran’s third album, ÷ (Divide).
It became a global smash, surpassing 2 billion streams on Spotify.
With its upbeat rhythm and memorable sound, it’s perfect for parties and get-togethers with friends.
It’s a must-listen for the younger generation.
StayZedd
It’s a masterpiece woven from sweetness and poignancy.
Released in February 2017, the track was produced by Zedd and features Canadian singer-songwriter Alessia Cara.
Its lyrics, which celebrate youth while expressing anxieties about growing up and the struggles of love, resonate deeply.
It climbed high on charts worldwide, peaking at No.
7 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Blending dance, dance-pop, and electronic elements, its captivating sound appeals to a wide audience, especially young people.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel the sweetness and ache of romance or reminisce about someone special—and many in Gen Z are likely to know it.
Diet PepsiNEW!Addison Rae
Addison Rae, a female singer-songwriter who rose to global fame through TikTok.
She’s extremely popular overseas, so if you keep your ear to the ground, you’ve probably heard of her.
Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is a track from her 2025 album “Addison.” Released in August 2024, it became a hit, reaching No.
54 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The chorus is in falsetto, so it might seem challenging, but the melody itself is simple.
If you can use falsetto, anyone can sing it with plenty of vibe—so give it a try!
CloserThe Chainsmokers
It’s a song that captures Gen Z’s hearts and doesn’t let go.
The melody sticks in your head and has a catchiness that resonates with young people.
It skillfully expresses the complex emotions of love, eliciting empathy from listeners.
Released in July 2016, it created a huge buzz, including spending 12 consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Known as one of The Chainsmokers’ signature works, it’s loved by many.
It’s the perfect track for a fun drive with friends or making memories with your significant other.