Western songs used in commercials — tear-jerking classics and popular tracks
“What was that song from the commercial I saw ages ago again?” “I want to know the details of that song I heard in a recent commercial.” If you love music, you’ve probably had these thoughts at least once.
Since some commercials only air during a specific period, tracking them down can end up being more work than you’d expect.
In this article, we’re featuring a lineup of timeless Western hits used in both old and new commercials, all centered around the theme of ‘tear-jerkers.
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And ‘tear-jerkers’ doesn’t just mean ballads—enjoy a wide range of classics gathered from various angles, from hopeful, up-tempo pop to rock numbers steeped in melancholy.
Western songs used in commercials – moving masterpieces and popular tracks (1–10)
I’m YoursJason Mraz
Jason Mraz is a singer-songwriter from Virginia, USA.
His music always warms listeners with its upbeat lyrics and an organic, cozy groove that blends reggae and rock.
The song “I’m Yours” is a straightforward love song.
Its slightly nostalgic feel and the sense of bliss that flows through the whole track will lift your spirits in any situation.
Kiss MeSixpence None The Richer
A song by Sixpence None the Richer, whose band name comes from C.
S.
Lewis, a British medieval literature scholar, and his book Mere Christianity.
The track was used in NTT DoCoMo’s FOMA “Celebration” commercial, as well as in Canon’s EOS Kiss ad.
It’s also a piece that symbolizes the band’s connection with Japan, as a Japanese-language version is included on their best-of album, The Best of Sixpence None the Richer.
With brisk acoustic guitar strumming and a clear, transparent vocal, it’s a comfortable listen—even for people who don’t usually listen to Western music.
Are You Even Real?James Blake
It’s a deep, delicate song that wistfully sings about the meaning of existence.
Created by British singer-songwriter James Blake, it was released as a single in 2020.
This track was used in Apple’s “Behind the Mac” campaign.
The commercial itself was a documentary-style piece showing James Blake creating “Are You Even Real?” The profoundly human message and the ambient, atmospheric sound arrangement are absolutely breathtaking.
You’re BeautifulJames Blunt
A single by James Blunt, a UK singer with a former-military background, and his third release.
This is the song that made James Blunt a global star, and many in Japan have likely heard it as the theme for TOYOTA’s Vitz commercial and as an insert song in the TV drama “Kobayakawa Nobuki no Koi.” Its unforgettable phrase, once heard, leaves a powerful impression.
With a simple arrangement that highlights his emotional vocals, it’s a beautiful number that justifiably reached No.
1 in 11 countries.
Won’t Go Home Without YouMaroon 5
The pleasantly relaxed band sound resonates beautifully.
This song by the globally popular band Maroon 5 was included on their second album, It Won’t Be Soon Before Long, released in 2007.
After being featured in a TOYOTA commercial, it became widely listened to in Japan as well.
It’s a heartrending love song about the sorrow of a lover who has left and the yearning for them to come back.
You can’t help but find yourself praying, “Please let it work out, please let them get back together…”
Can’t Smile Without YouBarry Manilow
The Japanese title “Namida-iro no Hohoemi” (Tear-Colored Smile) is a very romantic love song.
This track, sung by American singer Barry Manilow, was originally by Neil Sedaka, so Manilow’s version is a cover.
It was used in Toyota’s “Prius α Hide-and-Seek” commercial.
The relaxed, shoulder-swaying arrangement is part of its charm.
Its pleasant tones might be perfect for leisurely moments, like tea time.
Beautiful Now ft. Jon BellionZedd
The powerful EDM sound really gets you pumped up! This is the track used in SUZUKI’s SWIFT “New Swift Hybrid Launch” commercial.
It’s a piece by music producer Zedd, who has provided songs to numerous world-class artists, released in 2015.
The vocals are by Jon Bellion.
The exhilarating, heart-racing composition—like a wall of sound rushing toward you—can only be described as outstanding.
Highly recommended for when you want to focus or boost your motivation.