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!
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Famous Western Music Musicians (1–10)
Heart of GlassBlondie
A song released in 1979 by the American rock band Blondie.
It reached number one in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several European countries.
The music video highlights the beauty of vocalist Debbie Harry—then hailed as the “second coming of Marilyn Monroe”—making it a particularly memorable track.
Girls And BoysBlur
The song released in 1994 by the British rock band Blur brought a fresh breeze to the music scene as a defining work of Britpop.
With disco beats, a funky bassline, and Graham Coxon’s gritty guitar intertwining to perfection, the track stands out.
Its lyrics strongly reflect youth culture of the 1990s, portraying a free view of love that isn’t bound by gender or social norms.
Released in March 1994, it reached No.
5 on the UK Singles Chart and has been included on many compilation albums as one of Blur’s signature songs.
It’s a recommended listen for those who enjoy the contrast between an upbeat sound and sardonic lyrics.
Livin’ on a PrayerBon Jovi
When it comes to Bon Jovi anthems before “It’s My Life,” it has to be this number.
The guitar riff, which makes full use of a talk box, is so famous that any guitarist has probably tried playing it at least once.
Famous Western musicians (11–20)
Money For NothingDire Straits
Debuting in 1978, they built a unique world with Mark Knopfler’s vocals and guitar, becoming a popular group in the United States.
Entering the 1980s, their musicality was increasingly recognized—Bob Dylan among those who took notice—and having become a big name, they released Brothers in Arms in 1985, an album that can be considered representative of 1980s rock.
SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire
A signature song by the American funk band Earth, Wind & Fire, released in 1978.
It has been used in various films and commercials and is a defining track of the disco era.
In Japan, it was selected as the theme song for the 2002 TV drama “Zoku Heisei Fūfu Chawan.”
Alone Again (Naturally)Gilbert O’Sullivan
Released in 1972, this timeless classic topped the U.
S.
charts for four consecutive weeks.
Its wistful melody also became popular in Japan and was used as the opening theme for the 1986 film Maison Ikkoku.
Step onHappy Mondays
Originating from Manchester, UK, the July 1990 release by Happy Mondays is a defining track of the Madchester scene.
The song is a cover of a John Kongos track, produced by Paul Oakenfold and Steve Osborne.
It features a distinctive sound that blends elements of acid house, funk, and psychedelia, and centers on themes of challenging power and manipulation.
Its energetic, catchy rhythms and lyrically deep message have captivated many music fans.
The track is included on the album ‘Pills ‘n’ Thrills and Bellyaches’ and had a major impact on the music scene of the 1990s.