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[2025] From Japan to the world! A collection of classic city pop hits in Western music
If you’re a music lover, you’ve probably heard the term “city pop” somewhere.
We’ve also published articles on classic city pop albums on our site, but to put it simply, it’s a genre born mainly from the late 1970s to the 1980s by Japanese artists influenced by sophisticated, urban sounds like overseas AOR.
Since the 2010s, it has been rediscovered by music fans abroad and has become a boom.
The definition is somewhat vague, but in this article we highlight popular Western songs that convey the influence of this Japan-born “city pop.”
From famous tracks to hidden gems, enjoy the world of “Western City Pop”!
[2025] From Japan to the World! A Collection of Classic City Pop Songs in Western Music (1–10)
Out of TimeThe Weeknd
The Weeknd’s song “Out of Time” brilliantly fuses the essence of 1980s Japanese city pop with a sleek, contemporary Western sound.
Released in January 2022, it quickly became a beloved global hit, showcasing a smooth groove and The Weeknd’s characteristically luscious vocals.
It skillfully samples Tomoko Aran’s city pop classic “Midnight Pretenders,” a move that sparked considerable buzz and remains fresh in memory.
The lyrics, depicting regret and the course of love, are deeply affecting, and the aching sense of “running out of time” resonates powerfully with listeners.
Line By Line (feat. Cory Wong & Paul Jackson jr)PREP
PREP is a UK band that delivers a city pop-inspired sound reminiscent of late-1970s to 1980s city pop.
Their 2018 track “Line By Line” weaves late-night conversations and subtle strings into a comfortable groove.
With a sophisticated, urban sound that feels like it honors each other’s time, it lets you forget the bustle of everyday life.
Listen to this song and you’ll surely discover a fresh charm in city pop.
LorettaGinger Root
Released in June 2021, Ginger Root’s track “Loretta” is a song from their EP City Slicker.
Led by Cameron Lew, a project that emerged from the California music scene, it blurs the lines between polished indie pop, R&B, and soul, all while carrying an essence reminiscent of city pop.
“Loretta” offers an ear-catching melody and an encouraging, forward-looking message.
With its light rhythm and refreshing tune, it portrays the strength to move on from heartbreak, sure to resonate with many listeners.
If you want to experience contemporary Western music inspired by city pop, be sure to give this song a listen!
Have You Evermindfreakkk
Mindfreak’s track “Have You Ever” is a standout example of international city pop, blending the genre’s sophisticated sound with a romantic tone.
Reviving the Japan-born style that surged again in the 2010s, it carries its emotions across the ocean through heartfelt lyrics and melodies.
The song lays bare a sense of loneliness while also conveying strength and hope.
Various emotions intertwine delicately, all set against a laid-back, comfortable beat.
It offers a cozy warmth that feels close to the listener’s heart.
Even if you’re not a dedicated music fan, give this piece of international city pop a listen—its heartfelt message is sure to resonate.
Baby PowderJenevieve
The warm, groovy feel and sophisticated sound of city pop still captivate music fans around the world.
More and more Western artists are skillfully quoting classic city pop tracks and elevating them into their own songs, and one standout example is rising singer-songwriter Jenevieve’s 2020 viral hit “Baby Powder.” It cleverly samples Anri’s classic “Last Summer Whisper”—Anri is often called the queen of city pop—breathing new life into it.
The song’s gentle mellowness and Jenevieve’s captivating vocals carry the essence of city pop while resonating with a new generation of listeners.
AYAKODevin Morrison
Devin Morrison is an artist who lets the world of Western music feel the charm of city pop rediscovered by a new generation.
Hailing from Orlando, Florida, he captivates listeners with a unique sound known as “Dream Soul,” sprinkled with a sense of wonder.
His signature track “AYAKO,” released on December 18, 2018, revives the vibe of 1980s R&B for today.
Its romantic, sweet lyrics centered on basketball are said to be inspired by Japanese anime.
Morrison’s multifaceted career—starting with collaborations in Tokyo—shines through in his music, which is why his debut album “Bussin,” released in April 2019, has been praised worldwide.
Be sure to immerse yourself in this captivating world of Western-style city pop!
Everybody’s Gonna Love SomebodyAlfie Templeman
Everybody’s Gonna Love Somebody by Alfie Templeman, a young talent from the UK, was released in 2021.
It’s impressive enough that he was only 18 at the time, but what I’d really like to highlight is that he openly professes his love for Japanese city pop, citing influences from artists like Makoto Matsushita and Kingo Hamada.
The vivid guitar and soulful saxophone catch the ear, and his impeccable sense for crafting an ’80s synth-pop vibe is simply breathtaking.
If you’re into singer-songwriters, be sure to give it a listen!