Top Western Music Rankings by Generation: Popular Picks for People in Their 40s

Last ChristmasWham!1rank/position

Wham! – Last Christmas (Official Video)

Last Christmas by Wham! was a massive hit in the 1980s.

Since it’s a song used by many media outlets in Japan, I’m sure many of you are familiar with it.

Even in the 2020s, isn’t this the song that comes to mind when you think of Christmas? With Wham’s sweet vocals and beautiful sound, it’s a pop number that also achieved huge commercial success.

It’s My LifeBon Jovi2rank/position

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

Live your own life, not someone else’s—live it to the fullest! The American rock band’s classic “It’s My Life” inspires that feeling.

At karaoke, it might look cool to sing it in a rock style while imitating the husky tone of the vocalist.

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys3rank/position

Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (Official HD Video)

When it comes to iconic songs by the 90s vocal group Backstreet Boys, this track released in May 1999 comes to mind.

Featured on the album Millennium, it climbed high on the charts in the U.

S.

and around the world.

The powerful vocals of the five members and their harmonized choral work are striking, blending with a melody that captivates listeners and cementing its status as a monument of 90s pop that has charmed countless fans.

The lyrics, which portray the strain in a relationship caused by emotional or physical distance between lovers, brilliantly depict the complexities of love and desire.

It’s also perfect for listening while reminiscing about the bittersweet memories of youth.

Virtual InsanityJamiroquai4rank/position

Jamiroquai – Virtual Insanity (Official Video)

This song by the British funk band Jamiroquai is a message piece that sounds an alarm to society.

Centered on the rapid advance of technology and the loss of humanity, it paints the future with sharp insight.

Released in 1996 and included on the album “Travelling Without Moving,” the track won four awards at the MTV Video Music Awards the following year, and its music video is still talked about today.

Jay Kay’s distinctive vocals and dance leave a strong impression, and the unique sound—fusing funk with acid jazz—captivated many music fans.

As a warning to modern society, this song prompts us to consider the balance between technology and humanity.

Let’s DanceDavid Bowie5rank/position

David Bowie – Let’s Dance (Official Video)

David Bowie, the world-renowned British artist who constantly kept an eye on the times and changed his musical style like a chameleon.

The work that made his name echo around the globe was released in March 1983 at the height of the disco boom, with funk maestro Nile Rodgers brought on as producer, resulting in an irresistibly groovy dance tune.

Yet beneath the surface lies depth as well—through the image of “wearing red shoes and dancing the blues,” it hints at people who conceal sorrow and feign joy.

The fact that he enlisted the then-unknown Stevie Ray Vaughan also speaks volumes about Bowie’s extraordinary eye for talent.

It’s a perfect track for a night when you want to dance till dawn at a party.

RoarKaty Perry6rank/position

Katy Perry – Roar

This is an uplifting anthem by Katy Perry, where catchy, melodic tracks create a high level of polish that matches her distinctive character and musicality.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing at karaoke—glamorous yet approachable for women in their 30s, and perfect for powering up the crowd.

On The Floor ft. PitbullJennifer Lopez7rank/position

Jennifer Lopez – On The Floor ft. Pitbull

Born in 1969.

When it comes to sexy, smart, and cool women in their 40s, she’s the one who comes to mind.

This track, a collaboration with popular rapper Pitbull, is perfect as a party song to liven up a 40th birthday celebration.