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Moving Western songs: classic and popular tracks among the world’s most emotional songs.

Unlike Japanese music, one of the advantages of Western music is that you can be moved by the mood of the melody even if you don’t know the lyrics.

This time, I’ve selected Western songs that are especially moving.

In the first half, I’ve prioritized commercially successful works and well-known tracks.

In the second half, I’ve gathered truly moving Western masterpieces, regardless of their popularity or commercial scale.

If you’re well-versed in Western music, you’ll likely encounter masterpieces you haven’t heard before in the latter half—so be sure to check them out!

Touching Western songs: Masterpieces and popular tracks among the world’s most emotional songs (91–100)

Get Up Stand UpBob Marley

Bob Marley – Get up, stand up 1980
Get Up Stand UpBob Marley

He is Bob Marley, a reggae musician from Jamaica.

Often called a messenger who cries out for peace, he stirred up controversy with this song by flatly rejecting traditional monotheistic worship and urging people to fully enjoy the world we live in now.

Cry Me A RiverElla Fitzgerald

“Cry Me a River” is a classic in jazz and blues.

In Japanese, its meaning is translated as “tears become a river.” As you can imagine from that, it’s the story of someone whose breakup has gotten messy and out of hand.

The weighty melody adds depth.

Moving Western music. Masterpieces and popular tracks among the world’s most emotional songs (101–110)

FeverPeggy Lee

Peggy Lee, a singer from the United States.

Among her songs—filled with the allure of a mature woman delivered in her husky voice—“Fever” is considered one of the sexiest.

It’s a sophisticated track with a cool, moody vibe that’s irresistibly suave.

MeanTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift, often described as the brightest star in America right now, has some early songs where her country roots still shine through, and this is one of them.

As always, the lyrics are terrifyingly revenge-driven, but what’s remarkable about her is that she actually pulls it off.

LighthouseCalum Scott

Calum Scott – Lighthouse (Lyric Video)
LighthouseCalum Scott

Calum Scott’s 2024 single is a powerful and moving track.

It expresses feelings for a loved one far away through a beautiful metaphor likening them to a lighthouse’s light.

Produced by The Nocturns, it begins with gentle piano and gradually builds with a heartbeat-like rhythm and layered vocals, brilliantly conveying unwavering love.

The song is set to be performed on Ed Sheeran’s stadium tour, and its expansive production is perfectly suited to the big stage.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to when you’re thinking of someone dear who’s far away, or when you need a dose of hope.

Wish You The BestLewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi – Wish You The Best (Official Video)
Wish You The BestLewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi is a singer-songwriter from Scotland.

His 2018 single “Someone You Loved” drew attention for reaching No.

1 on the U.

S.

singles chart—a rare achievement for a Scottish artist.

And his 2023 release “Wish You The Best” is a love song with a strikingly poignant chorus that says, “I don’t want to be away from you.” It’s an incredibly moving track that might just bring you to tears.

My Mind & MeSelena Gomez

Selena Gomez – My Mind & Me (Film Version)
My Mind & MeSelena Gomez

Selena Gomez is a female singer-songwriter who’s also thriving as an actress.

Many of her songs are highly emotional, and her lyrics draw attention every time.

The ballad “My Mind & Me” is no exception—its poignant lyrics resonated strongly with teenagers and people struggling with their feelings.

Centered on the theme of reflecting on one’s past self, the words woven throughout not only move you when you listen, but can also heal your heart when you read them.