Lovely background music

Popular on TikTok! A collection of Western songs recommended for video creation and BGM

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!
Pop music writer/editorKEI
A style that keeps updating my favorites while loving mainstream and hit songs. I have experience writing articles for outlets like Utaten. Since I discovered music as a student, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. 2000s J-POP and 2010s K-POP were my youth, and I’m also loosely into jazz and R&B. I enjoy good music across genres with a “good is good” mindset. Thanks to my past work environment (and its influence), I listened to a lot of classic rock and kayōkyoku, which may have broadened my tastes. At RAG MUSIC, I mainly cover K-POP. I focus on reviews that emphasize feelings people can relate to, and on editing aligned with local pride and hit potential. Thank you!

Have you ever thought, “What kind of cool Western songs are great for video production BGM or for creating a hyped or stylish mood in social media videos?” In recent years, TikTok and other platforms have helped songs spread, and the ways we enjoy music have really expanded! Here, we’re introducing especially popular Western tracks, including classic picks that also work great as BGM.

From creating a lovely atmosphere to unique vibes and even couple videos, these Western songs are hugely popular on TikTok and easy to use in your videos.

Be sure to enjoy them as everyday BGM, too!

Popular on TikTok too! A collection of Western songs recommended for video creation and BGM (71–80)

Maggot BrainFunkadelic

Maggot Brain

Maggot BrainFunkadelic

It’s the title track from Maggot Brain, the album released by the funk rock band Funkadelic in 1971.

It might make you think, “Funk??” but it’s a blazing, bluesy tune—in fact, I’d say it squarely qualifies as blues rock.

The so-called ‘crying guitar’ is super cool! And the album cover makes quite an impact, too.

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Welcome to the JungleGuns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses – Welcome To The Jungle

Welcome to the JungleGuns N' Roses

The opening track of Guns N’ Roses’ debut album, “Appetite for Destruction.” It’s also one of their signature songs.

A masterpiece that makes Axel Rose’s prowess as a high-range vocalist clear from the very first listen.

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ThrillerMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Thriller (Official 4K Video)

ThrillerMichael Jackson

One of Michael Jackson’s signature songs, released in 1983.

The album of the same title that includes this track is also famous for being the best-selling album of all time worldwide.

Incidentally, the music video for this song was produced with a budget about ten times the going rate at the time.

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Popular on TikTok too! A collection of Western songs recommended for video creation and BGM (81–90)

One ThingOne Direction

One Direction – One Thing

One ThingOne Direction

One Thing, which feels like a very refreshing breeze, is a song brimming with idol appeal from the hugely popular One Direction, singing about sweet and tangy first love.

If a handsome guy sang to you like that, girls everywhere would be completely smitten, right?

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Video Killed the Radio Star (Japanese title: The Tragedy of the Radio Star)The Buggles

The Buggles – Video Killed The Radio Star (Official Music Video)

Video Killed the Radio Star (Japanese title: Tragedy of the Radio Star) — The Buggles

Watch “Video Killed the Radio Star (Japanese title: ‘The Tragedy of the Radio Star’)” by The Buggles on YouTube.

The Buggles’ debut and signature song.

The Japanese title is “The Tragedy of the Radio Star.” Released in 1979.

As the original title makes clear, it’s about how television and video “killed” the once-thriving radio culture.

In an era when television culture itself is fading, one can’t help but feel the impermanence—an immortal classic.

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Every Breath You TakeThe Police

Every Breath You Take

Every Breath You TakeThe Police

A signature song by The Police that became a huge hit in 1983.

Its calm melody and understated cool carry a certain warmth.

Just like its Japanese title, “Mitsumete Itai” (“I’ll Be Watching You”), it really tugs at the heart when it plays during moments like bouquet presentations at weddings or when you’re expressing love to someone special.

It’s hard to believe such a wonderful song was written in just 30 minutes.

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VenusThe Shocking Blue

Shocking Blue – Venus (Official Video)

VenusThe Shocking Blue

Included on the self-titled album “Venus” by the Dutch rock group Shocking Blue.

Released in 1969.

In Japan, it is well known for being used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Warau Inu” series.

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