[2025] Western Music You’ve Heard at Least Once — From Trending New Tracks to Timeless Classics

Beat ItMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Beat It (Official 4K Video)

Known as the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson eternally etched his name into the history of popular music with his voice, groundbreaking songs, and breathtaking performances.

Even if someone doesn’t recognize his name, they’ve almost certainly heard at least one of the songs he created.

The piece we’re featuring today is Beat It, a track from the immortal classic Thriller—released in 1982 and known as the best-selling album of all time—which was issued as a single the following year and became a massive hit.

Also famous in Japan under the title Konya wa Beat It, this song is notable not only for its powerful music video featuring Michael dancing alongside real Los Angeles gangs, but also for the legendary work of Eddie Van Halen, who played the instantly recognizable guitar riff and solo.

The moment you hear that riff, you immediately know which song it is—now that’s what you call impact!

Hold My HandLady Gaga

Lady Gaga – Hold My Hand (From “Top Gun: Maverick”) [Official Music Video]

Top Gun: Maverick, released in May 2022, became a massive hit.

If you’ve seen the film, you might be wondering whose song was used as the theme.

The theme song is performed by the world-renowned singer Lady Gaga, and the track is called “Hold My Hand.” In the music video, you can see Gaga performing on a runway and in an aircraft hangar.

Movie fans should definitely check it out!

Bad Habits feat. Bring Me The HorizonEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Bad Habits feat. Bring Me The Horizon (official audio)

Ed Sheeran, a UK-born singer-songwriter who debuted in the 2010s and has become hugely popular here in Japan as well, is one of the most successful artists of his generation.

With his exceptional songwriting sense, distinctive loop-pedal-driven style, and friendly, approachable personality, he’s a beloved figure across genres.

Speaking of Ed, his fifth studio album, “=,” released in November 2021, became a massive worldwide hit and continues to sell steadily.

In February 2022, a new version of its lead single “Bad Habits”—which topped the UK charts for 11 consecutive weeks—was released, featuring a collaboration with Bring Me The Horizon, the UK-born band that has grown into a global rock powerhouse.

While the original version drew attention for its music video in which Ed plays a vampire, this version features animated characters that appear to be modeled after Ed and BMTH frontman Oliver Sykes.

The track leans toward Bring Me The Horizon’s sound, fusing flashy electronic elements with dynamic rock, transforming it into a fresh and intriguing song that naturally delights fans of both artists—and piques the interest of fans on either side.

For Ed’s fans unfamiliar with Bring Me The Horizon, some might have thought, “Was this song always this heavy?” But personally, I think the heavier sound works surprisingly well.

Beautiful ThingsBenson Boone

Benson Boone – Beautiful Things (Official Music Video)

Benson Boone, who left American Idol despite high praise and went on to build a powerful fan base on social media, released this track in January 2024.

Its structure is striking, unfolding from a soulful verse into a powerful chorus.

His raw, distinctive vocals are captivating as he explores the joys and fragility of life with introspective depth.

The song reflects on overcoming a painful past, rebuilding family relationships, and meeting a beloved partner, while also conveying the anxiety that such joy might one day be lost.

A teaser on TikTok garnered over 130 million views, generating major buzz.

You Need To Calm DownTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – You Need To Calm Down

A lively and refreshing message song that’s so very Taylor Swift: “You Need To Calm Down.” This is a track I really hope you’ll enjoy by reading the lyrics.

When you’re a bit tired or feeling full of complaints, I think it’s a song that helps you blow off steam.

I’d be happy if listening to this track makes you feel even a little more liberated!

Sweet but PsychoAva Max

Ava Max – Sweet but Psycho [Official Music Video]

This is a worldwide hit by American singer-songwriter Ava Max.

The lyrics portray a girl who seems cute but has a psycho side.

No matter your gender, it’s often the people everyone warns you to stay away from who are the most alluring, right? Those highly relatable lyrics combined with the catchy melody are addictively Max!

Left And Right (feat. Jung Kook of BTS)Charlie Puth

Charlie Puth – Left And Right (feat. Jung Kook of BTS) [Official Video]

A love song by Charlie Puth, who shot to fame with the massive hit See You Again, the theme song of the classic car-action film Furious 7.

With BTS’s Jung Kook participating, the song is also extremely popular in Japan.

The lyrics, themed around lovesickness, portray memories of a loved one flickering back and forth, expressed by panning the vocals between the left and right speakers.

Be sure to listen with earphones and check it out!