Top Western Music Rankings Popular with People in Their 50s [By Generation]

GloriaLaura Branigan15rank/position

Gloria — Laura Branigan

Laura Branigan is an American singer who made her solo debut after working as a backup vocalist and is known for hits like “Solitaire” and “Self Control.” This song is an English-lyric adaptation of a work by an Italian singer, and her expansive, powerful vocals leave a strong impression.

shine on you crazy diamondPink Floyd16rank/position

Pink Floyd – Shine On You Crazy Diamond [Official Music Video]

I think this is a godlike band, especially for men in their 50s.

It’s a song about the late Syd Barrett, and above all, that intro gives me nonstop goosebumps, pumps me up, and makes it impossible not to get excited—one of Pink Floyd’s finest masterpieces.

The sheer power of that intro guitar alone knocks you out.

It’s incredible.

Sweet Child O’ MineGuns N’ Roses17rank/position

Guns N’ Roses – Sweet Child O’ Mine (Official Music Video)

A renowned song from Guns N’ Roses’ debut album “Appetite for Destruction,” it reached No.

1 on the Billboard charts.

Slash’s intro guitar riff is striking, and the emotive, “crying” guitar solo is deeply evocative.

The lyrics, carried by Axl Rose’s vocals, poignantly express heartfelt feelings for a loved one.

Released as a single in June 1988, it became one of the band’s signature tracks.

Its timeless appeal endures, as evidenced by its use in the 2022 film “Thor: Love and Thunder.” Why not belt out this rock classic—one for the history books—at karaoke with someone special?

Eye Of The TigerSurvivor18rank/position

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)

A song by the American hard rock band Survivor, which became a worldwide hit as the theme for the movie Rocky III.

It’s also used as an entrance theme for some athletes, so it likely sounds familiar.

Dave Bickler’s sharp, resonant vocals vividly convey a bold, fiery spirit, and the bass is especially effective, making it a standout track.

Singing this makes you feel pumped up, like “All right, let’s do this!”—a truly energizing song.

enter the sandmanMetallica19rank/position

Metallica: Enter Sandman (Official Music Video)

Metallica, a band I personally consider the greatest in metal.

Is there anyone who doesn’t feel their blood stir when they hear this intro? It’s especially memorable for those in their 50s.

Even now that we’re middle-aged, they’re still unbelievably cool—this is a masterpiece among masterpieces.

The moment this song comes on, it’s time to headbang.

We Will Rock YouQueen20rank/position

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

Released in 1977, this song is characterized by its distinctive stomp-stomp-clap rhythm.

Its simple yet powerful beat was created using multitrack recording and delay effects, producing a massive sound as if a huge crowd were participating.

In live performances, it was often paired with another classic and closed out the set at Live Aid in 1985.

There’s also a story that the music video was filmed in the cold.

Perfect for pumping up sports events or karaoke, it’s a timeless Western pop classic that continues to be loved across generations, propelled by Queen’s soul-stirring performance.

I Want To Break FreeQueen21rank/position

Queen – I Want To Break Free (Official Video)

The song “I Want to Break Free,” included on the 11th album The Works and also known for its music video—a parody of the British TV drama Coronation Street—that sparked mixed reactions.

Because of its lyrics, it became popular in South America at the time as an anthem of freedom for people suffering under oppressive regimes.

Its vocal range is narrow and the pitch movement isn’t drastic, so you can sing it comfortably while listening to the ensemble.

If possible, I’d like you to sing it with an understanding of the lyrics—this is a soulful pop tune.