Oldies Western Music: Popular Rankings [2025]

Time After TimeCyndi Lauper8rank/position

Cyndi Lauper – Time After Time (Official HD Video)

Speaking of legendary songs that defined an era, Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” comes to mind.

Her voice, graceful yet powerful, gently stirs a quiet emotion in listeners.

The fact that it has remained beloved by artists around the world since its 1984 release attests to a universal appeal that goes far beyond a simple ballad.

Born from the talent she cultivated through overcoming hardship, this song stands as a monumental ballad that colored the 1980s.

It remains cherished in Japan as well, an unforgettable classic that continues to shine without fading even today.

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.

Open ArmsJourney10rank/position

Journey – Open Arms (Official Video – 1982)

Journey, the legendary band that defined an era in the ’80s.

They’ve produced many timeless songs, but among them, “Open Arms” stands out as a bittersweet yet heartwarming ballad that has earned widespread acclaim.

Steve Perry’s crystalline vocals and the song’s warm melody have touched countless listeners, winning enduring love not only in the United States but also in Japan.

Since its 1982 release, it has garnered glowing praise, even taking the top spot on VH1’s “25 Greatest Power Ballads,” a testament to its undeniable quality.

If you’re looking to dive into rock ballads, be sure to give it a listen.

Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles11rank/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.

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys12rank/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.

November RainGuns N’ Roses13rank/position

Guns N’ Roses – November Rain

A song by the globally popular rock band Guns N’ Roses, who have enjoyed worldwide fame since the late 1980s.

It’s a track from their 1991 album Use Your Illusion I.

Opening with grand strings and piano, this nearly nine-minute piece can be described as an epic rock ballad themed around love and loss.

The fusion of Axl Rose’s emotional vocals and Slash’s wailing guitar solo creates a poignant atmosphere that tightens the listener’s chest.

Peaking at No.

3 on the U.

S.

singles chart, this gem of a song resonates deeply on quiet nights spent thinking of someone precious, or on days when it feels like cold rain is falling on your heart.

Livin’ On A PrayerBon Jovi14rank/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.