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

HomeIsabel LaRosa

Isabel LaRosa – Home (Lyric Video)

Isabel LaRosa, a Maryland-born artist from the United States, has released a striking new song.

Having been immersed in music since childhood, she creates tracks with her brother Thomas, and this work was born from the experience of leaving her childhood home.

Its dark-pop melody, tinged with bittersweet nostalgia, pairs beautifully with lyrics that capture the sense of loss that comes with growing up.

Since its release in February 2024, the song has resonated with many listeners and has drawn attention for its deft portrayal of teenage emotions.

It’s a must-listen for anyone facing life changes—like living alone or moving to a new place.

EmbersJames Arthur

James Arthur – Embers (Official Video)

James Arthur, who continues to captivate the world as one of the UK’s leading artists, released a soul-stirring, lyrical love ballad on Valentine’s Day in February 2025.

This work, which gives voice to the feelings that smolder on in one’s heart even after a breakup, perfectly blends his powerful yet delicate vocals with a beautiful piano melody and a sweeping string arrangement.

The structure is striking as well, beginning with a quiet intro and gradually building into a dynamic development that, together with his soulful singing, moves the listener’s emotions.

It’s a song that stands beside anyone who has experienced heartbreak or separation, offering both empathy and healing.

Young and BeautifulLana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey – Young and Beautiful

A song that is also included on the soundtrack of Baz Luhrmann’s film The Great Gatsby.

It was written by Lana Del Rey and Rick Nowels, a songwriter from San Francisco.

The track features Lana’s beautifully deep, speech-like vocal delivery.

LUNCHBillie Eilish

Billie Eilish – LUNCH (Official Music Video)

A song that boldly expresses desire for women is generating buzz.

Featured on American artist Billie Eilish’s third album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT, released in May 2024, the track skillfully fuses elements of electropop and post-punk.

Its heavy bassline and danceable beat are striking, and the contrast with Eilish’s whispery vocals is especially compelling.

The lyrics frankly convey her sexuality—likening intimate relationships with women to dining, for example—and reflect a journey of self-discovery.

The music video also showcases energetic dance performances, making it a visually engaging track as well.

CelebrateJames Arthur

Celebrate

This is a song released in January 2025 by British singer-songwriter James Arthur.

Scheduled to be included on the album Pisces, the track is a ballad that blends elements of pop and indie rock.

Set to piano-driven instrumentation, Arthur’s powerful vocals resonate throughout.

The lyrics, infused with self-affirmation and gratitude, convey the importance of celebrating life’s small victories.

After winning The X Factor in 2012, Arthur topped the UK charts with his single Impossible, gaining significant attention in the music industry.

This track showcases a new musical challenge for him and is recommended for anyone looking to reflect on themselves.

Funny PapersMac Miller

Mac Miller – Funny Papers

A poignantly melancholic track that tightens your chest without you realizing.

Released in January 2025, it’s included on the previously unreleased album “Balloonerism,” made public roughly seven years after Mac Miller’s passing.

The song strongly reflects the American rapper Mac Miller’s views on life and death, marked by a jazzy, wistful atmosphere.

Its lyrics, centered on life’s uncertainty and self-exploration, are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.

It’s a perfect piece for contemplative nights or moments when you want to quietly face yourself.

RushmereMumford & Sons

Mumford & Sons – Rushmere

It’s a song with a fantastical and profound worldview.

Scheduled for release in March 2025, it’s the title track of Mumford & Sons’ new album—their first new work in about seven years.

Hailing from the UK, the trio created this record as a three-piece for the first time, portraying memories of the past, self-discovery, and the hardships of life along with its beauty.

While retaining elements of folk rock, the track is characterized by a more personal and sentimental tone.

The lyrics, expressing sensitivity to life’s impermanence and the passage of time, are sure to resonate deeply with people living in contemporary society.