Western music that gets you pumped. Recommended up-tempo tracks.

I’m Not Here To Make FriendsSam Smith

Sam Smith – I’m Not Here To Make Friends

Sam Smith, the singer-songwriter behind back-to-back hits like “Stay With Me” and “Unholy.” His “I’m Not Here To Make Friends” is dance-pop that will make you want to start moving.

The music video is also striking, featuring him provocatively dancing in flamboyant outfits reminiscent of enka star Sachiko Kobayashi.

The lyrics are positive and empowering, so if you’re interested, check them out along with the song.

SpainAl Jarreau

al jarreau- spain

This is a live performance of the genius vocalist Al Jarreau, born in Jamaica, singing Chick Corea’s classic “Spain.” On piano is Joe Sample, on bass Freddie Washington, and on drums Steve Gadd.

You could say without exaggeration that this was the best lineup of the time.

Some parts may sound like odd meter, but it’s in 4/4.

It would be almost sinful to say it doesn’t groove—no wonder the audience is shouting.

The drum solo is a must-see!

Kill This LoveBLACKPINK

BLACKPINK – ‘Kill This Love’ M/V

As a K-pop girl group, BLACKPINK has become hugely popular in Japan as well.

“Kill This Love” is one of their signature hits from 2019, debuting at No.

41 on the Billboard chart and setting the highest ranking for a K-pop girl group.

The track is a dark, dance-oriented song characterized by horn sounds influenced by trap and programmed drum machine beats.

Heading into the 2020 Olympics, this kind of dance music—almost like a modern march—has become a trend.

Love DrunkBoys Like Girls

Boys Like Girls – Love Drunk

The album with the same title, Love Drunk, is also known for featuring a collaboration with Taylor Swift.

Their songs used to be mostly emotional in style, but recently there have been more punk rock-style tracks.

However, there hasn’t been much notable activity lately, which is a bit concerning.

TreasureBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Treasure (Official Music Video)

Like Walk the Moon’s “Shut Up and Dance,” this is a Bruno Mars track with an ’80s theme.

He has plenty of other hits, but this is one that always comes up as an upbeat, feel-good number.

Makes you want to dance with a big crowd!

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

You can tell how well-known this song is from the fact that it has nearly 200 million views on YouTube.

“September” is, of course, about September, but it’s a song you can enjoy all year round, regardless of the season.

Savor the superb harmonies and upbeat groove that even Diana Ross admired.

Worth It (feat. Kid Ink)Fifth Harmony

Fifth Harmony – Worth It (Official Video) ft. Kid Ink

Fifth Harmony is a girl group that debuted on the American version of the popular audition show The X Factor.

Their song Worth It was a major hit, reaching as high as No.

12 on the Billboard Hot 100.