[Western Music] Recommended Songs and Popular Classics to Listen to When You're Tired

Bad DayDaniel Powter

Daniel Powter – Bad Day (Official Music Video) [HD]

If you’re worn out from an unlucky day, try listening to Daniel Powter’s “Bad Day.” It was used as the ending theme for Season 5 of the popular American TV show American Idol and became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive weeks.

The lyrics, which reassure you that “today was just an off day,” along with the gently swaying piano accompaniment, have a calming effect as you listen.

Leave the Door OpenSilk Sonic

Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic – Leave the Door Open [Official Video]

This is the standout song of 2021, which won four awards—including two of the Big Four—at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards held on April 4, 2022! Silk Sonic, the powerhouse duo of superstars Bruno Mars and Anderson .

Paak, released their milestone debut single “Leave the Door Open” in March 2021—a gem born from boundless love for classic ’70s soul.

Its endlessly sweet, nostalgic melody and warm production make it a delight even for those who aren’t dedicated soul fans.

The lyrics, a straightforward, down-the-middle love song, actually feel refreshing in today’s world, and it’s fun to spot the little references sprinkled throughout.

Paired with a playful, vintage-inspired music video, this track is sure to soothe your everyday fatigue.

At My WorstPink Sweat$

Pink Sweat$ – At My Worst (Official Video)

As his name suggests, Pink Sweats—whose pink-themed fashion and irresistibly charming persona are part of his appeal—is a singer-songwriter drawing attention here in Japan.

Grounded in R&B and soul, he crafts timeless, high-quality pop songs with assured songwriting and a gentle vocal tone that feels like it nestles close to the listener’s heart.

His 2020 release At My Worst is a truly wonderful classic that perfectly showcases his talents as a singer-songwriter.

Though I’m not perfect, I’d do anything for you… This pure, earnest sentiment is delivered in a gem of a ballad that wraps listeners in warmth.

By the way, there’s also a remix version of At My Worst featuring the hugely popular R&B singer Kehlani, so be sure to check that out too!

DESPERADOThe Eagles

Desperado (2013 Remaster)

When you hear “Desperado,” you think of the Eagles, a quintessential West Coast rock band, and their classic ballad released in 1973.

The song is also popular in Japan and has been covered by artists such as Chikuzen Sato, Ken Hirai, and Superfly.

Many people will recognize its wistful piano intro.

The lyrics, which express concern and care for a friend, invite a reflective mood.

When you’re too exhausted to sleep, try listening to “Desperado” to calm your mind.

Velvet LeavesPuma Blue

Puma Blue – Velvet Leaves (Official Video)

While still a well-kept secret in Japan, Puma Blue has been making a name for himself within London’s contemporary underground jazz scene, attracting attention with exquisite songs that blend bedroom-born genres.

As the solo project of multi-artist Jacob Allen, he began uploading tracks online in 2014, sparking buzz, releasing several EPs and a live album, and even touring Japan.

In 2021, he released his long-awaited debut album, In Praise Of Shadows.

Its refined yet soulful vocals and introspective, jazz-tinged soul aesthetic—steeped in his unique sensibility—make for a calming listen across the entire record.

This time, we’re highlighting Velvet Leaves, which was released ahead of the album in September 2020.

Its uniquely alluring combination of a beautiful voice reminiscent of the legendary singer-songwriter Jeff Buckley and restrained, measured production offers an experience you won’t find elsewhere.

Baby PowderJenevieve

Jenevieve – Baby Powder (Official Video)

Japanese city pop has been winning fans around the world, and recently The Weeknd’s sampling of Tomoko Aran’s “Midnight Pretenders,” composed by Tetsuro Oda, in his own track “Out of Time” once again highlighted its influence.

In that spirit, let me introduce Genevieve’s classic “Baby Powder,” which boldly references Japanese city pop while sublimely transforming it into a unique song.

The simple yet memorable bass line from the intro samples “Last Night Whisper,” produced by one of city pop’s leading figures, Toshiki Kadomatsu, and included on Anri’s 1982 album Heaven Beach.

Genevieve’s charming vocals and the bittersweet melody make it a supremely satisfying R&B track.

Her unforced singing style is easy to enjoy, even when you’re feeling worn out.

Heat WavesGlass Animals

Glass Animals – Heat Waves (Official Video)

As of 2022, perhaps the most talked-about UK-born song in the world is “Heat Waves” by the British indie rock band Glass Animals, which has remained a runaway long-seller since its 2020 release.

Setting a variety of records, “Heat Waves” memorably reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart in March 2022, hitting the top spot in its 59th week on the chart—an all-time record.

It’s worth looking into the background of why this track has sold so extraordinarily well, but one major factor appears to be its music video, filmed in lockdown-era London in 2020, for which the band’s frontman Dave Bayley asked neighbors to help by shooting from their windows.

With a catchy melody that sticks in your head after a single listen and a uniquely pop sensibility tinged with gentle psychedelia and an R&B feel, the song highlights Dave Bayley’s talents as a songwriter.

It’s also highly recommended as soothing background music for the stress-filled days of the pandemic era.