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!
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Moving Western songs: Classic and popular tracks among the world’s most emotional songs (41–50)
Fix YouColdplay
Delivering a healing message that resonates deep within the heart, this gem of a ballad by the British rock band Coldplay is truly special.
Woven from profound sorrow over what has been lost and a poignant wish to support a loved one, the song begins with a quiet piano and builds to a grand climax, stirring the listener’s emotions.
Released as a single from the album X&Y in September 2005, it carries the deep affection rooted in Chris Martin’s personal experience, and its performance at the 2005 Live 8 concert moved many.
It is a masterpiece recommended for anyone facing difficult moments in life or wishing to encourage someone dear to them.
Moving Western songs. Classic and popular emotional songs from around the world (51–60)
Rolling in the DeepAdele
A powerful song swirling with anger and sorrow was created by Adele, a singer from the United Kingdom.
Candidly voicing the pain of heartbreak and a thirst for revenge, this track appears on Adele’s second album, 21, and was released in November 2010.
Characterized by deeply emotive vocals and a striking rhythm, it reached number one on the charts in 12 countries worldwide.
It won three Grammy Awards and is known as one of Adele’s signature songs.
It’s a recommended track for those looking to heal the wounds of a broken heart or to channel intense emotions through music.
I Can’t Make You Love MeBonnie Raitt
This song tells the story of a woman standing on the brink of a breakup: she senses her partner’s feelings will never return, yet she can’t forget the nights when there was love.
Released by Bonnie Raitt in 1991, it became her biggest hit.
Don’t know whyNorah Jones
It’s a song filled with a gentle atmosphere, with an acoustic guitar melody flowing throughout.
One noteworthy aspect is how the vocals are very forward in the mix—as if Norah Jones were whispering and singing right by your ear.
IrisGoo Goo Dolls
A heart-stirring rock ballad born from the story of the film City of Angels.
Released by America’s Goo Goo Dolls in April 1998, this song richly conveys the aching feelings of an angel who has fallen in love with a human.
Its beautiful melody weaves together a gentle gaze toward people striving to live and the protagonist’s resolve to seek love, even at the cost of eternal life.
Included on the band’s album Dizzy Up the Girl, the track became a massive hit, spending 18 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart.
It’s a recommended listen for those who want to reflect deeply on the determination to change oneself for a loved one, as well as the doubt and resolve that come at life’s crossroads.
GhostsMichael Jackson
Michael Jackson is a superstar of the century, and it’s fair to say that “Thriller” is his most famous song.
However, the track I’m introducing, “Ghosts,” is said by some fans to surpass even that.
Its meaning is so deep that interpretations extend to issues of race.
How do you interpret it?
BeautifulChristina Aguilera
It’s turned out to be a phenomenal track that feels like the pinnacle of female vocals.
Right now Adele and Lady Gaga are hugely popular, but if we look one era earlier, this song would be the top pick.
The chorus, where the piano intertwines with the delicate vocals, is absolutely breathtaking—goosebump-inducing—so don’t miss it.