Western Music of the Yutori Generation: Nostalgic Classics That Colored Our Youth
The Western music that the Yutori generation listened to in their youth is likely etched in memory alongside the unique listening experiences from before the streaming era, isn’t it? Timeless tracks stumbled upon on YouTube, hit songs played on repeat on MTV Japan, and gems discovered through movie soundtracks.
Shall we look back on the charm of the Western music scene from those days—something only a generation raised at the crossroads of digital and analog could truly savor? We’ll bring you a rich selection of tracks that will stir nostalgia and make you want to listen all over again!
Western Music of the Yutori Generation: Nostalgic Anthems That Colored Our Youth (1–10)
ComplicatedNEW!Avril Lavigne
Released in 2002 as the lead single from her debut album Let Go, this song is one of Avril Lavigne’s signature tracks, earning her the title “Queen of Pop-Punk.” It expresses discomfort with people who put on a facade and act like someone they’re not, while wishing they would just be themselves—capturing the raw frustrations of adolescence.
It’s a song I recommend to anyone who’s struggled with the conflict of wanting to be authentic but still worrying about how others see them.
Crazy in LoveNEW!Beyoncé
Beyoncé, whose powerful vocals have earned her worldwide popularity.
Released in July 2003, when she transitioned from Destiny’s Child to a solo career, this song portrays a passionate woman who is so head-over-heels in love that she doesn’t care what others say.
Its sound blends brass sampled from the Chi-Lites with a go-go-inspired beat, guaranteed to ignite both clubs and live shows.
It also topped the charts in the U.
S.
and the U.
K.
simultaneously.
A perfect track for expressing the full intensity of being in love.
bad guyNEW!Billie Eilish
Released in 2019, Billie Eilish’s signature song is a career-defining work that won both Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the Grammys.
It features a minimal bassline and whisper-like vocals, creating a dark yet somewhat comical atmosphere.
The track has been featured in various works, including the film Brightburn, and continues to be loved in clubs and on social media even long after its release.
Packed with stylish flair beneath its cool, understated vibe, this song is perfect for anyone looking for a catchy Western pop track.
I Really Like YouNEW!Carly Rae Jepsen
Released in 2015, this work by Carly Rae Jepsen also made major waves with its music video featuring Tom Hanks.
As the lead single from the album E•MO•TION, it became a global hit and reached No.
1 on the Billboard Japan Hot Overseas chart.
The song captures the high of a budding romance—where “I like you” isn’t quite enough, but it still feels too soon to say “I love you”—expressing that delicate emotional sway over a light, poppy sound.
Its ‘80s-style synth-pop feel is pleasantly nostalgic, and the irresistibly catchy melody practically begs to be sung along to.
In Japan, it was featured in commercials for LINE MUSIC and Moist Diane, and for many it remains a song that colored their youth.
Lose YourselfNEW!Eminem
This track, which hurls its hungry spirit straight at you, was released in 2002 as the theme song for the film 8 Mile, which reflects Eminem’s life.
Riding an emotional flow, it depicts a protagonist trying to seize a “once-in-a-lifetime chance” while battling poverty, anger at his home environment, and stage fright.
The tense sound that begins with the piano chords in the intro is unforgettable after a single listen.
As the first hip-hop song in history to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song, this classic is sure to encourage anyone facing adversity.
Listen to it before a sports match or an important presentation, and you’ll feel your courage rise.
Poker FaceNEW!Lady Gaga
A dance-pop tune with a stunning structure that surges from a dark, provocative intro into an irresistibly catchy chorus.
Released in 2008 as the second single from the album “The Fame,” it hit No.
1 in the U.
S.
the following year.
In Japan, it was featured in an au commercial, and its memorable phrases left a lasting impression on many.
The comfortable mid-tempo beat makes it perfect for drives and party scenes.
Its addictive quality will have you hitting repeat again and again.
NumbNEW!Linkin Park
In the desperate struggle to live up to others’ expectations, you can lose sight of who you really are.
This song powerfully portrays that uniquely youthful conflict and anguish.
It repeatedly voices the exhaustion of continually performing the “ideal self” demanded by parents and teachers, the loneliness of being understood by no one, and the sense of emotions going numb—resonating deeply with listeners in their teens and twenties.
Beginning with gentle piano and synthesizer and erupting emotionally at the chorus, the arrangement is breathtaking.
Released in September 2003 as the third single from the album “Meteora,” it became a massive hit, topping the music charts for 12 consecutive weeks.
The music video, filmed in Prague, has surpassed one billion views and is highly acclaimed for its visual expression.
When you feel on the verge of losing your sense of self, this song will be there to stay by your side.