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

Say SomethingA Great Big World, Christina Aguilera

A Great Big World, Christina Aguilera – Say Something

A ballad with captivating lyrics featuring the piano as the lead instrument.

The song charted on singles charts in several countries, including Australia and Canada, and became a major global hit.

At the 2015 Grammy Awards, it won Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.

Somebody ElseThe 1975

The 1975 – Somebody Else (Official Video)

A gem of a love song that portrays the end of a passionate romance and the struggle of entering a new relationship.

Released in February 2016 by the British band The 1975, this track delicately expresses lingering attachment and jealousy toward a former lover.

Its sound, reminiscent of 80s synth-pop, and Matty Healy’s emotive vocals strike a deep chord.

Included on the album “I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It,” it was also featured in the film “The Edge of Seventeen.” It’s a perfect choice for soothing the pain of heartbreak or for anyone wrestling with complex romantic feelings.

What a Wonderful WorldLouis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World (Official Video)

A heartwarming classic that celebrates the beauty of the world and the simple joys of life.

The distinctive voice of Louis Armstrong, a jazz master born in America, resounds throughout.

Released in 1967, this song was created with a wish for peace amid the Vietnam War.

Its lyrics are filled with everyday beauty—blue skies, the colors of the rainbow, and the warmth of people.

With its gentle tempo and soothing melody, it offers kindness and hope to listeners.

Frequently used in films and commercials, it is a timeless piece whose universal charm continues to be loved across generations.

Close My EyesLuke Hemmings

Luke Hemmings – Close My Eyes (Official Visualizer)

The song released in April 2024 by Australian artist Luke Hemmings is an introspective track that reveals his anxieties and fears about entering his late twenties.

Like a film playing behind closed eyelids, the lyrics trace the emotions of looking back on past successes and failures.

It conveys a forward-looking attitude, even as he experiences the pain of letting go of the past and growing into a more mature self.

His solo debut album, When Facing the Things We Turn Away From, released in August 2021, also drew attention, and in addition to the new EP, a worldwide tour starting in May 2024 has been announced.

His passion for creation shows no signs of slowing.

Many listeners are sure to resonate with the sincerity with which he confronts his inner self.

Wish You Were HerePink Floyd

Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here

A song inspired by the trials of Syd Barrett, a founding member of Pink Floyd, in relation to his schizophrenia.

When Pink Floyd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996, this song was performed as they took the stage at the ceremony.

We Are the ChampionsQueen

Queen – We Are The Champions (Official Video)

Released in 1977, this song is the ultimate anthem that celebrates victory and glory.

Freddie Mercury’s overwhelming vocal power and the band’s outstanding performance come together to create music that seizes the listener’s heart.

It has remained beloved in the world of sports as well, even being chosen as the official theme song for the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

Dedicated to everyone who overcomes adversity and keeps chasing their dreams, this masterpiece can truly be called a timeless classic.

It’s especially recommended when you’ve faced setbacks but want to keep looking forward and moving ahead without giving up.

Pictures of YouThe Cure

Pictures Of You (Remastered)

Speaking of goth rock, The Cure, the British rock band, immediately comes to mind.

This is their song “Pictures of You,” released in 1990.

It’s a love song centered around photographs.

The breezy band sound feels almost like a show of bravado, which makes the track sound all the more sorrowful.