Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists [2025]

RoarKaty Perry22rank/position

Katy Perry – Roar

This song powerfully conveys the inner transformation of reclaiming one’s voice and discovering inner strength.

Released in August 2013 by American artist Katy Perry as the lead single from her album “Prism,” it became a global hit.

Alongside its powerful melody, it portrays the growth of a protagonist who once suppressed her true self out of concern for others’ opinions, gradually learning to assert her views with confidence.

Since its 2013 release, it has been featured at various sporting events, including the NFL and the US Open in tennis, and has continued to inspire many as an empowerment anthem.

When you want to move forward after a painful experience or need the courage to believe in your potential, this song will be a steadfast ally.

Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana23rank/position

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)

An American band that captured the alienation and anger of chaotic youth with ferocious dynamics, Nirvana delivers one of its signature songs here.

After a quiet intro, it pivots into roaring guitar riffs and vocals that sound like screams, vividly portraying both apathy toward society and a spirit of rebellion.

Since its release in September 1991, the track became a massive global hit, igniting the grunge movement.

As an iconic song from the album Nevermind, it resonated deeply with Generation X.

Its raw sound and lyrics infused with profound despair strike a powerful chord with those tormented by discomfort with the establishment and by self-loathing.

It’s the perfect song for facing your inner darkness or unleashing the anger buried deep within.

All of MeJohn Legend24rank/position

John Legend – All of Me (Official Video)

The ultimate love ballad that sings of unconditional love for a cherished partner continues to move the hearts of many.

This song, dedicated by American artist John Legend to his now wife Chrissy Teigen, portrays a deep affection that cherishes even a partner’s perfect imperfections.

Set to a simple piano melody, the lyrics express an ideal form of love in which two people fully accept each other, stirring listeners’ emotions.

Released as a single in August 2013, it became a massive hit, reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 the following year.

Beloved by couples around the world, it remains a go-to song to enrich special moments with loved ones, such as weddings and anniversaries.

Hey JudeThe Beatles25rank/position

The Beatles – Hey Jude

While the Beatles’ musical contributions are immeasurable, the song released in 1968 can be considered one of their signature works.

Written by Paul McCartney, it is said to have been created to encourage John Lennon’s son.

Its warm lyrics and melody seem to offer solace and words of encouragement to listeners.

Despite running over seven minutes, its structure remains engaging to the very end.

Released in August 1968, the song is also known as the first release on the Beatles’ own label, Apple Records.

It is a track that stands as a true prescription for the heart, offering comfort to those burdened with worries and anxiety.

Lose YourselfEminem26rank/position

Eminem – Lose Yourself

The song that American artist Eminem created for the film “8 Mile” became a defining track of his career.

The lyrics, reflecting his own experiences, convey a strong determination to succeed and the courage to overcome adversity.

Released in October 2002, the song was used as the movie’s theme and spent 12 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2003.

It’s a must-listen for anyone striving to achieve their dreams or standing at a crossroads in life.

So WhatP!nk27rank/position

P!nk – So What (Official Video)

This is a song by the American singer-songwriter Pink, whose lyrics boldly declare, “I lost my husband—so what?” and it’s exhilarating.

Based on her real-life experience of being separated from her husband at the time, the track depicts her clawing her way up from the depths of heartbreak, proclaiming, “I’m a rock star!” Its provocative lines, like the declaration “I’m not paying his rent anymore,” surely gave many listeners a satisfying rush.

Released in August 2008 as the lead single from the album Funhouse, it instantly became a hot topic.

It hit No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts and even won an MTV award for “Most Addictive Track.” If you listen to it when you’re down from a breakup, it might help you look forward with a defiant “So what?” even if it feels reckless.

Bad DayDaniel Powter28rank/position

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]

Many people will probably recognize it the moment they hear that striking piano-led intro.

It’s a world-famous classic by Canadian musician Daniel Powter.

Centered on the theme of having a “bad day,” its lyrics tenderly accompany a heart weighed down by helplessness, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in 2005 as a single from the album Daniel Powter, it spent five consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts.

The fact that it was used on a popular American audition show to send off contestants whose dreams had been dashed seems to symbolize the song’s bittersweet worldview.

It’s a piece I recommend for those nights when your heart feels like it’s about to break—listen alone and let the tears flow.