Ranking of Popular Western Music Artists [2025]

I Just Called To Say I Love YouStevie Wonder57rank/position

I Just Called To Say I Love You

A gem of a ballad by American genius singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder.

It’s an emotionally moving piece whose gentle, warm melody and lyrics—about calling someone for no reason other than to say “I love you”—resonate deep in the heart.

The song was produced in August 1984 as the theme for the film The Woman in Red, and in Japan it’s also well known from the TV drama Kimi no Te ga Sasayaite Iru.

Savor the atmosphere that lets you feel the tenderness found in everyday life, and listen while thinking of someone dear to you.

Stairway To HeavenLed Zeppelin58rank/position

Led Zeppelin – Stairway To Heaven (Official Audio)

A signature song by Led Zeppelin, released in November 1971.

It is characterized by a structure that begins with a quiet introduction featuring acoustic guitar and recorder, gradually adding electric guitar and drums.

The poetic lyrics, which touch on materialism, spiritual seeking, and inner human growth, have inspired a wide range of interpretations.

Led Zeppelin, hailing from the UK, was a legendary rock band that included Jimmy Page and Robert Plant.

The track appears on the album Led Zeppelin IV and has been beloved by listeners for many years.

How about listening to it leisurely on a quiet night?

Under The BridgeRed Hot Chili Peppers59rank/position

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Under The Bridge [Official Music Video]

When it comes to the most well-known overseas rock bands in Japan, the Red Hot Chili Peppers—aka “Red Chili” in Japan—would likely be at the top of the list.

While they gained popularity with their eclectic mix of funk, rock, and hip-hop and their wild performances, they gradually revealed a more melodious American rock side as well, achieving global success.

In Japan, they’re big enough to headline the Tokyo Dome, so many people at least know their name.

In fact, the stand used by Akira Otoishi, the guitarist-aspiring rocker who appears in Part 4 of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Diamond Is Unbreakable, is named “Red Hot Chili Pepper!”

The GreatestSia60rank/position

Sia – The Greatest (Official Video)

“The Greatest,” included on the album “This Is Acting” released in 2016 by Australian singer Sia, is a song that portrays the courage to face any obstacle without giving up.

Its lyrics, which convey inner passion, match beautifully with its ethereal sound.

As the song builds toward the chorus, the expanding soundscape conveys a sense of strong will.

It’s a track that can inspire you to rise up, especially in spring, a season of new beginnings.

Why not draw energy from her supple, beautiful vocals?

SuckerJonas Brothers61rank/position

Jonas Brothers – Sucker (Official Video)

This track stands out with its refreshing sound and captivating melody.

Released after the Jonas Brothers reunited for the first time in six years, the song centers on deep love and passion.

The lyrics, which highlight strong devotion and dependence on a partner, were inspired by each member’s real-life relationships.

Released in March 2019, it debuted at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming their first U.

S.

chart-topping single.

It’s a perfect pick-me-up for drives or when you’re out and about.

Top Of The WorldCarpenters62rank/position

Top Of The World

Many of you may remember it as the opening theme of the 1995 TV drama “Miseinen.” This classic by the American sibling duo the Carpenters is a song that brightens your heart just by listening.

Originally included on their 1972 album “A Song for You,” it was released as a single the following year and rose to No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts.

Filled with love and a blissful feeling as if standing atop the world, it resonates in your chest through Karen Carpenter’s crystal-clear voice.

Possessing a magical charm that makes the ordinary sparkle, the song was also used in the 2003 drama “Beginner.” It’s a perfect track for lifting your spirits in the morning or for a calm, leisurely afternoon.

10,000 HoursDan + Shay, Justin Bieber63rank/position

Dan + Shay, Justin Bieber – 10,000 Hours (Official Music Video)

This is a song born from a miraculous collaboration that crosses the boundaries between country and pop! It’s a luxurious joint work by the talented Nashville duo Dan + Shay and global pop star Justin Bieber, released in October 2019.

The anecdote that it came out just four days after Justin’s wedding further heightens its romantic mood.

The song expresses steadfast love—the desire to know every corner of a loved one’s heart, even if it takes ten thousand hours.

Listening to the warm acoustic tones and the gentle harmonies of the three voices blending together, you can’t help but feel your heart warmed and be moved to tears.

It’s truly a tear-jerking masterpiece that resonates with everyone who holds someone dear.