Departure songs in Western music: world-famous classics and popular tracks.

SINGMy Chemical Romance

My Chemical Romance – SING [Official Music Video]

The American rock band My Chemical Romance.

They’re well known for their punk and hardcore sound, and they showcase that talent to the fullest on “SING.” In fact, this song was dedicated to those affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake.

While the melody has a super cool vibe, the lyrics are crafted to be deeply moving.

It’s a work I’d recommend to anyone who loves badass melodies.

Be sure to check it out!

One Way RoadOasis

Oasis – One Way Road

Oasis is a world-famous British rock band best known for “Don’t Look Back in Anger.” They’re such a well-known rock band that many people in Japan are likely familiar with them.

Their greatest appeal is, above all, their straightforward and moving songwriting.

You can feel that side of them in “One Way Road” as well.

The title means “one-way street,” and the song sings about the importance of continuing to move forward to the very end.

Be sure to check it out!

Here I Go AgainWhitesnake

Whitesnake – Here I Go Again ’87 (Official Music Video)

Whitesnake is a British rock band centered around David Coverdale, the vocalist from Deep Purple.

They’re a veteran rock band that’s still active today.

Their appeal lies above all in their high-level musicianship and punchy vocals.

In Here I Go Again, those qualities really explode onto the stage.

The song sings about the importance of moving forward without fearing an uncertain future.

It’s truly a perfect track for setting out on a new journey!

LeavingSkrillex

Skrillex – Leaving

Skrillex, who enjoys popularity as one of the world’s top DJs.

His track “Leaving” is relatively minor among his songs.

It shifts from a dark-feeling intro to a melody with a sense of speed.

The track has a deep, cohesive atmosphere, so those who like that vibe will probably love it.

The lyrics simply repeat the same words, but that repetition ends up delivering a powerful message.

It’s a piece themed around a breakup with a lover.

Definitely give it a listen!

Bridge Over Troubled WaterCharlotte Church

Charlotte Church, National Orchestra of Wales – Bridge over Troubled Water (Live in Cardiff 2001)

Simon & Garfunkel’s classic “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” They’re well-known artists in Japan, too.

“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a world-famous masterpiece that won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year.

In Japan, it’s known by the title “Ashita ni Kakeru Hashi” (“A Bridge to Tomorrow”).

As the title suggests, the lyrics are very uplifting.

Influenced by gospel, the song carries a hymn-like atmosphere.

It’s a perfect piece for setting out on a new journey.

Goodbye Yellow Brick RoadElton John

Elton John – Goodbye Yellow Brick Road Lyrics

Sir Elton John’s classic, “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” When you think of Elton John, his piano—marked by a lively melody and superb technique—really stands out.

You can feel his individuality in “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” as well.

In Japan, it’s known by the title “Tasogare no Rengaji” (Twilight Brick Road).

“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” refers to the fast track to success, but in this song the theme is choosing one’s own path.

It’s a perfect theme for setting off on a new journey.

The ClimbMiley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus – The Climb

Miley Cyrus is a singer-songwriter and actress who rose to fame as the star of the hugely popular TV show “Hannah Montana,” which became a social phenomenon in the United States.

“The Climb” is one of her hit songs.

Since it’s from a time when she was still very young, those who watched her back then will likely feel nostalgic.

“The Climb” carries a message about living strongly even in the face of anxiety, making it a perfect song for new beginnings.