Famous Western music musicians
In Japan, partly because there are so many outstanding musicians, domestic music holds a large share.
But how about exploring Western music—the origin of rock and pop? We’ve put together a collection of works by prominent Western musicians all in one place.
Thanks to the influence of Hollywood films and overseas TV dramas, Western music is becoming more widely recognized, and by listening to music from around the world, your own horizons are sure to expand!
Famous Western Music Musicians (1–10)
Mi GenteJ Balvin, Willy William
J Balvin and Willy William, global reggaeton stars born out of Colombia in South America.
With an innovative sound that fuses reggaeton, dancehall, electronica, and other genres, they reign as heavyweight figures in the Latin music scene.
Since the 2010s, they have been energetically active, releasing numerous masterpieces such as the album José.
Boasting accolades including Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards, they enjoy overwhelming popularity, with billions of views on YouTube.
Their sound—an upbeat, danceable groove woven with sophisticated melodies—is perfect for parties or whenever you want a mood boost.
It’s my lifeBon Jovi
An iconic Bon Jovi anthem that delivers the universal message of “living true to yourself” with a powerful rock sound.
Released in May 2000, it dominated charts around the world.
Its lyrics, which emphasize the importance of living in the moment, resonate with many and inspire the courage to pursue self-fulfillment.
The music video was inspired by the film Run Lola Run, and surpassed one billion views in June 2021.
It’s a truly symbolic song that shows an American rock band’s enduring influence well into the 21st century.
Highly recommended for anyone ready to take a new step forward.
Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)Eurythmics
It hit number one in the U.
S.
in 1983.
I was shocked the first time I saw Annie Lennox’s orange hair and androgynous, male-style look in the music video.
Dave Stewart was pretty rough-looking too.
It’s interesting that the two of them were former lovers but formed Eurythmics after they broke up.
They went on to rack up hit after hit with this song and beyond; they were a talented duo who defined an era.
Recently, there was also news that Dave’s daughter, Kaya, debuted at age 16.
Dancing QueenABBA
It’s a song released in 1976 by the Swedish group ABBA, now a universally known international standard.
Just hearing the intro is so familiar that your body can’t help but respond, so it’s sure to be a hit at karaoke.
Back In BlackAC/DC
When discussing 80s rock, one indispensable album is AC/DC’s Back in Black, released in 1980.
Despite being a heavy metal album, it has sold 49 million copies worldwide, making it the third best-selling album in the world on record.
I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys
A signature work by the American vocal group Backstreet Boys.
Released in May 1999, it became a massive hit, topping the charts in more than ten European countries.
The lyrics convey the frustration of being unable to fully express feelings to a loved one, capturing the complexities of romance.
The repeated line “Tell me why” is especially memorable, vividly portraying the heart of someone struggling in a relationship.
Crafted by Max Martin and Andreas Carlsson, the sophisticated melody line blends perfectly with the group’s five-part harmonies, creating a classic that continues to captivate listeners around the world.
Highly recommended for anyone dealing with heartbreak or romantic troubles.
The StrangerBilly Joel
A song by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel, released in Japan in 1978.
The self-titled album, which sold a total of 10 million copies, had been released the previous year, and this track was issued as a single from that album.
It is a popular song in Japan and reached a peak position of No.
2 on the Oricon chart.