[2025] Moving Western songs that touch the heart: A roundup of recommended masterpieces

Tears In HeavenEric Clapton

Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven (Official Video)

This is a song Eric Clapton wrote when he lost his son.

Even now, the song enjoys immense support, and when people think of Eric Clapton, this is the song that comes to mind—myself included.

The fact that he turned even the death of his son into a song and left it to the world makes me feel that Eric Clapton is truly an artist at heart.

IrisGoo Goo Dolls

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris [Official Music Video] [4K Remaster]

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.

Old PhoneEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Old Phone (Lyric Video)

A superb ballad by Ed Sheeran, the popular British singer-songwriter, celebrating the importance of personal experiences and bonds.

Centered on acoustic guitar with a minimal arrangement, the delicate vocals create a song that truly resonates.

This track is from the album “Play,” scheduled for release in September 2025, and was released as a single in May 2025.

Its sincere lyrics and beautiful melodic lines evoke the atmosphere of his early work and can be considered quintessential Ed.

At a promotional event held in Ipswich, Massachusetts, fans from around the world brought mementos, creating a warm and welcoming mood.

It’s the kind of song to listen to quietly on nights when you want to look back on cherished memories and relationships with loved ones.

Purple RainPrince & The Revolution

Purple Rain

This is Purple Rain by Prince, the legendary singer-songwriter who sadly passed away in 2016.

It was used as the theme song for the film in which he starred.

The song is about a relationship that, though they want to stay together, must come to an end.

His passionate vocals in this sweeping ballad tighten the chest.

A Sky Full of StarsColdplay

Coldplay – A Sky Full Of Stars (Official Video)

A glittering, starry-sky-like track from the British rock band Coldplay.

It sings of unconditional love and gratitude for a loved one.

Its grand sound, infused with EDM elements, blends beautifully with Chris Martin’s emotive vocals.

Included on the album Ghost Stories, released in May 2014, this song became a symbol of the band’s musical evolution.

The fresh sound born from their collaboration with Swedish DJ Avicii has captivated many fans.

It’s a heartwarming song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the night sky—perfect for those moments on a journey when someone special comes to mind.

HonestyBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Honesty (Official Video)

An eternal classic that everyone has heard at least once—one for the history books.

It’s a track from Billy Joel’s smash-hit 1978 album 52nd Street, and it’s especially famous for its immense popularity in Japan.

True to its title, “Honesty,” the protagonist’s determination to seek honesty—even knowing how difficult it is—is beautifully expressed through the wistful sound and melody.

Honesty may feel hollow, and yet we still can’t help but long for it.

Billy’s message moves the heart.

The WayFastball

Fastball The Way (Official Video) http://www.fastballtheband.com

A song based on the true story of an elderly couple from Salado, Texas—Lela and Raymond Howard—who went missing on their way to a festival and were later found dead in a car that had crashed.

It is performed by the Austin-based band Fastball.