Great songs, moving Western music. World-famous and popular songs that resonate with the heart.

Behind Blue EyesThe Who

The Who – Behind Blue Eyes (HQ)

It’s one of The Who’s ballads.

While ballad numbers aren’t particularly common for The Who, this song captures their distinctive sense of poignancy and power, and its well-structured dynamics make it an inspiring, moving track that gives you a boost.

Song For SomeoneU2

U2 – Song For Someone (Directed by Matt Mahurin)

It’s one of U2’s signature ballads.

While this song may be famous as a moving piece, I chose it because I wanted to present it as an unmissable, truly great track.

It’s one of those classic ballads you can listen to when you’re feeling down to lift your spirits.

A Thousand MilesVanessa Carlton

Vanessa Carlton – A Thousand Miles

A work whose gentle piano melodies and clear, translucent vocals resonate with the heart.

Released in 2002, it became a massive hit in 38 countries.

Featured on the album “Be Not Nobody,” this song earned acclaim with nominations in three Grammy categories.

Vanessa Carlton’s poignant feelings are woven into the lyrics, harmonizing beautifully with the refreshing melody to move listeners deeply.

Sung from the perspective of longing for a loved one far away, it’s perfect for moments when you want to feel the bonds with someone special—be it a partner, friend, or family member.

It also makes a great companion for a drive.

No StringsX Ambassadors

X Ambassadors – No Strings (Official)

A poignant song that captures complex feelings toward one’s hometown.

This track from X Ambassadors’ new album “Townie” looks back on a lonely adolescence in Ithaca while portraying young people ready to take flight.

The repeated lyric “We don’t need wings” is striking, carrying the message that even in difficult circumstances we have the strength to move forward.

Released in January 2024, the song signals a new challenge for the band.

Interweaving hometown pride and inner conflict, it’s sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has left the place they grew up.

Dear GodXTC

XTC – Dear God

Skylarking was produced with Todd Rundgren, largely at the record label’s insistence.

The friction between the band and Rundgren was reportedly intense, to the point that they said they never wanted to work with him again.

However, the album turned out to be a masterpiece, and this single cut from it is also exceptionally well-crafted.

Waterloo SunsetThe Kinks

The Kinks – Waterloo Sunset (Official Audio)

Speaking of the Kinks, in Japan only “You Really Got Me” is widely known, and it’s puzzling that this masterpiece is largely overlooked.

By the way, the Terry and Julie who appear in the lyrics were said to refer to film stars Terence Stamp and Julie Christie, who were rumored to be romantically involved at the time, but the songwriter Ray Davies has denied that.

Knockin On Heavens DoorBob Dylan

Bob Dylan – Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door (Official Audio)

It’s one of Bob Dylan’s signature songs.

With its humorous title about knocking on heaven’s door and its highly poetic lyrics, it’s a rock ballad beloved around the world—so much so that many non-Japanese people find themselves humming it.