Nostalgic Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

Every Breath You TakeThe Police8rank/position

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

The song that dominated the Billboard chart at No.

1 for eight consecutive weeks following its 1983 release was The Police’s “Every Breath You Take.” It’s a beautiful ballad featuring a uniquely voiced arpeggiated guitar phrase, and its suggestive lyrics—expressing overflowing feelings for “you”—drew attention.

Sting, who wrote the lyrics and composed the music, is said to have completed the song in 30 minutes.

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

Stairway To HeavenLed Zeppelin9rank/position

Led Zeppelin – Stairway To Heaven (Live at Earls Court 1975) [Official Video]

Released in 1971, Led Zeppelin’s masterpiece ‘Stairway to Heaven’ is a work of musical art that captivates everyone.

Its rich structure gradually builds in a steady crescendo, culminating in Jimmy Page’s breathtaking, searing guitar solo.

Beginning with an acoustic arpeggio intro, the song progresses until Robert Plant’s powerful vocals reach their peak—truly a moving moment.

It’s a piece packed with the many elements a rock band aspires to, making it clear why it continues to be loved by so many.

Here is a timeless ballad with a melody that conveys the very essence of music.

Livin’ On A PrayerBon Jovi10rank/position

Bon Jovi – Livin’ On A Prayer

Bon Jovi is a band that represents American hard rock.

Within hard rock, there are a variety of styles.

Bon Jovi’s hard rock often has a sharp edge, and even listeners who aren’t used to heavy sounds can take it in smoothly.

Their hit song “Livin’ On A Prayer,” released in 1986, garnered huge popularity.

In Japan, it’s also known as the theme song of Nakayama Kinnikun.

Take On Mea-ha11rank/position

a-ha – Take On Me (Official Video) [4K]

It’s a masterpiece that could be called a monument of 80s synth-pop, distinguished by its shimmering, sparkling synthesizer tones! This memorable track was the debut single released in 1985 by Norway’s a-ha, a landmark song that catapulted the group to global stardom.

Their debut album, Hunting High and Low, which includes this song, also achieved international success, reaching No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts with a boost from heavy rotation on MTV.

Evoking the radiant spirit of the 1980s, this work captivates with its catchy melody and soaring high vocals, and can also be enjoyed as a coming-of-age anthem about taking a positive, proactive approach to love.

Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles12rank/position

Eagles – Hotel California (Live 1977) (Official Video) [HD]

The Eagles are a legendary country rock band that revolutionized the American music scene.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1971, they captivated the world with a unique sound that fused country, folk, pop, and more.

From the outset they produced numerous hits, winning a Grammy in 1975 for One of These Nights.

Their 1976 album Hotel California sold over 32 million copies worldwide and became their signature work.

Despite lineup changes and a breakup, they reunited in 1994.

With six Grammy wins and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, they have left a brilliant legacy.

Their powerful, beautifully harmonized vocals and polished musicianship are recommended not only for rock fans but for anyone seeking comfortable, satisfying music.

Basket CaseGreen Day13rank/position

Green Day – Basket Case [Official Music Video] (4K Upgrade)

Green Day, who burst into the spotlight in the ’90s alternative rock scene, emerged from California’s punk community.

Their signature work candidly portrays Billie Joe Armstrong’s struggle with anxiety disorder.

Released in November 1994, the song reached No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100, challenging taboos around mental illness and resonating with many people.

The music video was filmed in a real psychiatric hospital and received nine nominations at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards.

Transcending the bounds of punk rock, it stands as one of the defining tracks of the ’90s that touched countless hearts.

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys14rank/position

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

Released in April 1999, this is one of the Backstreet Boys’ signature songs.

Included on the album Millennium, it climbed high on the charts in the United States and around the world.

The powerful vocals of the five members blend with tight harmonies and a captivating melody, enchanting countless fans as a landmark of 90s pop.

The song conveys the tension in a relationship caused by emotional or physical distance between lovers, exploring the complexities of love and desire.

It’s a recommended track for those struggling with romance or wanting to express their feelings for someone special.