[2025 Edition] Classic Western Songs with Great Lyrics: Beautiful Messages That Touch the Heart

High HopesPink Floyd

Pink Floyd – High Hopes (Official Music Video HD)

A song released as a single by Pink Floyd in 1994.

Written by David Gilmour, it is an autobiographical piece.

A phone conversation between Gilmour’s son, Charlie, and their manager, Steve O’Rourke, is sampled.

It was covered by Nightwish in 2005.

Sleep Welld4vd

d4vd – Sleep Well [Official Music Video]

Born in 2005, the young singer-songwriter d4vd continues to draw attention with each new release, racking up viral hits thanks to his abundant talent.

He’s also set to perform at Fuji Rock 2023.

Riding this momentum, his April 2023 release “Sleep Well” is a superb ballad, featuring his signature romantic melodies and a cozy bedroom-pop sound.

The lyrics, simple and candid like those of a teenage boy, are sure to resonate with anyone who has someone special in their life.

Interestingly, though, when you compare them with the story depicted in the music video, the narrative takes a bit of a turn.

Including its poignantly bittersweet ending, the MV is well worth checking out!

To ZionLauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill – To Zion

Lauryn Hill, known as a leading artist of neo-soul.

In Japan, many people may have first encountered her through the film Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.

“To Zion” is one of her signature songs, with lyrics that depict her decision to become a mother.

At the time, her label opposed her pregnancy, which gives the song a very powerful message.

If you have children, be sure to give it a listen.

BUTTERFLYMARINA

MARINA – BUTTERFLY (Official Video)

Centered on themes of self-transformation and rebirth, Welsh artist Marina forges new ground by blending baroque pop elements with contemporary production.

While carrying forward the majestic aesthetic showcased on her early album The Family Jewels, she moves listeners with emotive vocals and a multi-layered soundscape.

Released in February 2025 on the independent label Queenie Records, the work was created in close collaboration with producer CJ Baran.

Through the metaphor of a butterfly, its narrative of personal metamorphosis elegantly portrays a break with the past and an awakening to a new self.

Brimming with a quiet, pre-dawn sense of hope, this release is poised to encourage anyone standing at a crossroads in life.

CarusoLucio Dalla

Lucio Dalla – Caruso (Live Video)

“Caruso,” a masterpiece by Lucio Dalla released in 1986, portrays the late-life romance of the great tenor Enrico Caruso and has earned high acclaim worldwide.

The praise isn’t just because it was a hit; it’s the kind of respect that comes from the classical music world and top-tier artists around the globe.

The lyrics depict Caruso’s deep love for his wife as death draws near.

With its melody, lyrics, and vocals all at the highest level, it’s a must-listen for music lovers.

Hold The GirlRina Sawayama

Rina Sawayama – Hold The Girl (Official Music Video)

Rina Sawayama is a singer-songwriter born in Niigata and based in London.

Hold The Girl, included on her album Dirty Hits released in September 2022, touches on Rina Sawayama’s own life.

Having experienced her parents’ divorce when she was young, she went through a relatively turbulent teenage period.

In this song, she sings about her adult self embracing the younger self she had to leave behind, depicting an effort to overcome psychological trauma.

It’s a song she hopes will resonate with anyone who had to grow up while carrying painful childhood memories.

b i g f e e l i n g sWillow

WILLOW – b i g f e e l i n g s (Official Visualizer)

Willow Smith’s songs, which delve into deep and complex emotions, are bringing a fresh breeze to the American music scene.

Beginning with resonant piano, her jazz- and soul-influenced musicality broadens the scope of her expression.

Released on April 12, 2024, this track tackles complex themes such as social pressure and inner conflict, translating those emotional waves into sound.

It is said to be inspired by a week in which Willow became aware of patterns in her own emotions and chose to confront them.

Her intention to encourage listeners to face their own feelings as well is sure to resonate deeply.