Popular Motivational Songs: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

StayZedd, Alessia Cara57rank/position

Zedd, Alessia Cara – Stay (Official Music Video)

Among the songs released in 2017, this one especially stands out for its great taste.

There’s no doubt it’s a track that really hits you in the heart.

Alessia Cara’s vocals are wonderfully clear and beautiful.

Zedd consistently makes great music, so I definitely want to keep following his work.

Play BallAC/DC58rank/position

AC/DC – Play Ball (Official Video)

This is the song that was played at the men’s snowboard slopestyle venue during the 2022 Beijing Olympics.

It’s a track by the world-famous rock band from Australia, AC/DC, included on their 2014 album Rock or Bust.

It’s a powerful tune that you can only describe as classic through and through.

The guitar riff feels absolutely phenomenal, too! The Olympics is the perfect stage to throw everything you’ve built up into the mix.

Indeed, music bursting with this kind of vitality feels like a perfect fit.

Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen59rank/position

Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe

They’re popular in Japan too, having even appeared at Summer Sonic—and it’s no wonder: their upbeat, poppy songs and irresistibly cute looks make perfect sense! This song portrays a woman who can’t help but be honest in front of the person she loves; she’s head over heels for him.

It’s another super catchy track! It became a hot topic after Justin Bieber tweeted about it, and it was Carly’s first song to reach No.

1 in the U.

S.

Her sweet vocals fit perfectly with the lyrics that capture the feelings of a girl who falls in love at first sight.

The story-style music video is adorable as well.

SorryJustin Bieber60rank/position

Justin Bieber – Sorry (PURPOSE : The Movement)

This is a 2015 hit song by Justin Bieber, who is extremely popular in Japan as well.

His wistful vocals are absolutely wonderful—what a great voice.

The track is easy to get into, easy to listen to, and has a really good vibe.

It grabbed me right from the opening.

I liked this song so much that I listened to it over and over.

I think it’s a recommended track even for people who don’t usually listen to Western music.

Born This WayLady Gaga61rank/position

Lady Gaga – Born This Way (Official Music Video)

A powerful song championing self-affirmation and the acceptance of diversity has been delivered by Lady Gaga.

Its universal message—“love yourself just as you are”—is something anyone can relate to.

The unique sound, which fuses electropop and gospel, resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in February 2011, the track reached No.

1 in more than 25 countries, including the United States.

In 2019, it was also used as the theme song for the Japanese film “The Fable.” It’s the perfect song for times when you lack confidence or need courage.

Lady Gaga’s voice will surely give you a gentle push forward.

APT.ROSÉ & Bruno Mars62rank/position

ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – APT. (Official Music Video)

A high-velocity pop tune with an unmistakable party vibe front and center.

Inspired by the call-and-response chants from Korean drinking games, Rosé and Bruno Mars deliver a stunning collaboration.

Its rhythmic distillation of youth culture and cleverly interwoven lyrics about romance capture the heart.

Since its release in October 2024, it has become a massive hit across Asia, achieving the remarkable feat of topping the Billboard Global 200 for nine consecutive weeks.

It had its premiere performance at the MAMA Awards held in Osaka in November of the same year, enchanting the audience.

Whether you want to recharge a tired heart or elevate a party with friends, this is a track that shines in any situation.

Lose ControlTeddy Swims63rank/position

Teddy Swims – Lose Control (The Village Sessions)

A soul-stirring, soulful vocal performance from American artist Teddy Swims delivers the ultimate track to elevate any sports scene.

With a powerful sound that masterfully fuses R&B, soul, and rock, his commanding vocals resonate throughout.

Featured on the album “I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1),” this song reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March 2024 and set a historic record with a 32-week run.

The lyrics, depicting the anguish and inner conflict of a co-dependent relationship, strike the heart as if telling one’s own story.

The sincere passion of this former American football player turned singer is sure to inspire courage in training and athletic moments alike.