Hidden gems of moving Western songs. Recommended popular tracks.
I’ve put together a playlist of moving Western songs.
Compared to Japanese songs, many of these tracks feature more expansive arrangements and grand, sweeping melodies.
Listening to this playlist might stir something deep in your heart.
I hope you find some new favorites.
Hidden gems of moving Western songs. Recommended popular tracks (1–10)
Viva La VidaColdplay
This is a song by the British rock band Coldplay, whose grand strings portray the sorrow of a king who has lost his power, striking straight at the heart.
Released in May 2008 from the album “Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends,” many will remember it for winning Song of the Year at the 51st Grammy Awards.
You may also have heard it in Apple’s iPod commercials.
Among fans, it enjoys overwhelming popularity as “majestic yet bittersweet,” and “like an anthem for life.” The protagonist’s emptiness—“I once ruled the world, and now I sleep alone”—echoes the hollow feeling that can follow great success.
Reflecting on the fragility of life revealed only after reaching the top makes you want to cherish the happiness you have now.
Lover, You Should’ve Come OverJeff Buckley
This is an achingly beautiful soul ballad left behind by the legendary American singer Jeff Buckley, who died far too young at 30.
It sings of the helpless regret and burning longing after a breakup.
If you’ve ever let go of someone precious because of youthful mistakes, you’ll likely find this song deeply relatable.
Wishing “I wanted you to come see me,” only to realize it’s too late—those feelings with nowhere to go are truly painful.
The track appears on the classic album Grace and was also featured in the drama FlashForward.
Even decades after its August 1994 release, it continues to move hearts.
On a quiet night when you want to be alone with your thoughts, you might let yourself sink into this heavenly voice.
SunflowerREX ORANGE COUNTY
This is a work by Rex Orange County, a singer-songwriter from the UK, whose softly hazy sound and sweet, smooth vocals resonate pleasantly in the ears.
The track was released in March 2017 ahead of his second album, Apricot Princess.
It portrays the delicate emotions of a protagonist who longs to be like the sun for the person they love, yet wavers with insecurity due to a lack of confidence.
Anyone who has ever been in love will deeply relate to that pure, single-minded devotion.
The music video by Illegal Civ Cinema further enriches the song’s world.
On those restless nights when you’re thinking of someone special, why not let the warm melody of this piece gently embrace you?
That GirlSarah Elisabeth,Carlisio Keys
This track by Sarah Elizabeth and Carlicio Keys features a smooth, comfortable R&B sound.
Based in New York, a vocalist with soul-stirring expressiveness and a producer leading the evolution of contemporary R&B weave together this work.
It captures the longing for that “ideal someone” we all imagine, as well as the earnest desire to become that person, all set to a beautiful melody.
Released in February 2023, this single is sure to gently resonate with listeners.
When you want to feel confident, or spend a quiet night facing yourself, why not immerse yourself in this refined sound? It will surely fill you with energy for tomorrow.
Take ControlTasha Mac
Many listeners are surely captivated by its sexy, sensual sound and vocals that balance strength with vulnerability.
This track is by Tasha Mack, a singer from Canada based in Los Angeles.
It seems to portray a powerful resolve to take the lead in love and in life.
It will make anyone who listens feel, “I want to carve out my future with my own hands.” Released in March 2022, the song fuses the soul of classic R&B with a modern sheen, giving you the courage to take a step forward on your own.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to quietly on nights when you long to change your circumstances.
Slide AwayOasis
A track from OASIS’s debut album “Definitely Maybe.” It’s said to be a favorite of Paul McCartney, a member of the Beatles whom all the members of OASIS deeply admire.
“Slide Away” means “drift apart,” and the song expresses a desire to reconcile with a lover who has been separated due to growing apart.
ChandelierSia
Sia, who hails from Australia, is also well known for her music videos with their distinctive worldview.
In the past, it made headlines when a Japanese karate girl appeared in one of them.
Chandelier was a worldwide hit and is known for having won various awards.