Lovely spring song

[2025 Edition] Western songs to listen to in May: A roundup of recommended popular tracks

Active club DJKento
Active as a club DJ. Centered on dance music, they mix a wide range of genres including US hip-hop and J-rap, captivating audiences with their unique musical style.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Speaking of May, it’s Golden Week—a season that’s a delight for working people and students alike.

That said, as the term “May blues” suggests, it can also be a time when you feel a bit lethargic after a long holiday.

So here are some classic Western songs perfect for May to lift your spirits!

From powerful tracks that give a push to those still feeling uneasy a month into their new routines, to chill tunes ideal for a leisurely afternoon tea on a day off, and songs that make great driving BGM during the holiday—there’s plenty to enjoy.

From the latest hits to timeless classics, enjoy!

[2025 Edition] Western songs to listen to in May: A roundup of recommended popular tracks (51–60)

Mambo No. 5 (A Little Bit of…)Lou Bega

Lou Bega – Mambo No. 5 (A Little Bit of…)

Mambo No. 5 (A Little Bit of…)Lou Bega

This is a cover song by German artist Lou Bega released in 1999, sampling the mambo and jive dance track by Cuban musician Damaso Pérez Prado that debuted in 1949.

It reached No.

1 on the charts in the UK and Australia.

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What A Wonderful WorldLouis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong – What A Wonderful World (Official Video)

What A Wonderful WorldLouis Armstrong

A 1967 single by the trumpet player and jazz musician Louis Armstrong, also known by the nickname Satchmo.

It became a hit in the United States, Europe, and countries around the world.

This classic has been used in numerous media, including the film Twelve Monkeys and the TV drama Twin Peaks.

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Pocketful of SunshineNatasha Bedingfield

Natasha Bedingfield – Pocketful of Sunshine (Official Video)

Pocketful of SunshineNatasha Bedingfield

Natasha Bedingfield is a pop singer from the UK.

She may not be very familiar to audiences in Japan, but she’s one of the most popular artists in Britain, and her brother, Daniel Bedingfield, is also active as an artist.

Her hit song “Pocketful of Sunshine” portrays escaping to an extraordinary place to refresh and recharge.

The lyrics are a perfect fit for May, with its many long weekends, so be sure to check it out.

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Counting StarsOneRepublic

OneRepublic – Counting Stars

Counting StarsOneRepublic

It’s a folk-pop song by the American pop rock band OneRepublic, set to a disco beat.

Released in 2013, the track became one of their biggest hits, and its music video has been viewed over 1.

6 billion times on YouTube.

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[2025 Edition] Western songs to listen to in May: A roundup of recommended popular tracks (61–70)

Shooting StarOwl City

Owl City – Shooting Star

Shooting StarOwl City

Owl City is the solo project of Adam Young.

He’s an artist known for an electronic sound centered on synth-pop and has collaborated with major names like Carly Rae Jepsen.

His famous song “Shooting Star,” released in 2012, carries the message that even when bad things happen, the sun will rise again.

It’s perfect for May, when it’s easy to feel a bit down.

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HolidayRema

Rema – Holiday (Official Music Video)

HolidayRema

Speaking of May, it’s all about Golden Week, right? I bet many of you are heading out on vacation.

That’s why I want to introduce “Holiday.” It’s a track released in 2023 by Nigerian rapper Rema.

Set to a soothing Afrobeat with the warm tones of congas, it carries the message: “Let’s shake off the stress and enjoy our time off.” With its chill vibe, it’s perfect for taking a breather or during a pit stop on a drive.

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I’m Not Here To Make FriendsSam Smith

Sam Smith – I’m Not Here To Make Friends

I'm Not Here To Make FriendsSam Smith

Some of you may have the chance to go on a date with your partner—whether you’re a couple or married—over a long weekend.

In that case, I recommend “I’m Not Here to Make Friends.” It’s a track by British singer Sam Smith, inspired by disco.

Set to an upbeat groove, the song portrays the push-and-pull between two people on a date.

Another highlight is how the mood shifts between sections—passionate at times, romantic at others.

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