Ranking of Western Music Artists Popular Among People in Their 40s [2025]

Killing Me Softly With His SongThe Fugees92rank/position

Fugees – Killing Me Softly With His Song (Official Video)

Originally, this song—known in Japan as “Yasashiku Utatte”—became a huge hit with Roberta Flack’s version.

Later, the hip-hop group Fugees, featuring Lauryn Hill, covered it, leading to a revival hit and earning them the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group.

Under the SeaThe Little Mermaid93rank/position

Samuel E. Wright – Under the Sea (from The Little Mermaid) (Official Video)

The theme song of the Disney film The Little Mermaid is “Under the Sea.” This bright, lively, and catchy tune even won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

It’s extremely popular not only in the original English version but also in the Japanese dubbed version.

Your LoveThe Outfield94rank/position

The Outfield – Your Love (Official HD Video)

Included on the 1985 album “Play Deep.” A four-piece rock band from London that debuted in 1985.

The track features a mid-tempo, gently flowing rhythm and prominent guitar tones, yet retains a catchy pop sensibility—quite memorable.

The vocalist’s high tenor also adds a refreshing touch.

Every Breath You TakeThe Police95rank/position

The Police – Every Breath You Take (Official Music Video)

It topped the UK charts for four consecutive weeks and the US Billboard for eight consecutive weeks.

At the 1984 Grammy Awards, it won Song of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group.

The Japanese title is “Mitsumete Itai” (“Every Breath You Take”).

While it’s often interpreted as a love song, it actually portrays a person who watches over someone with malicious intent.

What’s Love Got To Do With ItTina Turner96rank/position

Tina Turner – What’s Love Got To Do With It (Official Music Video) [HD Upgrade]

This is an anthem by the charismatic artist Tina Turner, whose catchy melodic sensibility and eccentric artistry give her a legendary presence.

With its beautiful, karaoke-friendly melody, it’s a perfect fit for people in their 30s.

With Or Without YouU297rank/position

U2 – With Or Without You (U2 At The BBC)

There seem to be various interpretations of this song, but to me it feels like the inner conflict and anguish we face when making choices in life.

Like loving someone but not being able to be together.

It might be Bono’s cry about living with his own contradictions.

JumpVan Halen98rank/position

Van Halen – Jump (Official Music Video) [HD]

Included on the 1984 album released in ’84.

A four-piece rock band from California that debuted in ’78.

You can feel your spirits lift just from the opening keyboard tone.

It’s an up-tempo track whose irresistibly catchy, pop-flavored melody—unexpected from a hard rock band—sounds downright cool.