[2025 Edition] Uplifting Western Music — Latest Popular Songs and Recommended Tracks

Ur MumWet Leg

Wet Leg – Ur Mum (Official Video)

Wet Leg, the self-titled debut released in April 2022 that hit No.

1 on the charts in their home country of the UK, is the most talked-about female duo right now.

While rooted in post-punk, their irresistibly catchy melodies and riffs, along with their brilliantly sardonic lyrics, have drawn major attention in Japan as well, and they’ve already scheduled their first solo shows here in 2023.

Their song “Ur Mum,” a single released just before the album dropped, is a killer tune that opens with a scathing message to an ex and features a ferocious mid-song shout from vocalist Rhian Teasdale.

As Rhian has said she wrote it “to calm my own anger,” the track captures the image of a strong woman determined to face forward and move on to the next step.

If you want to rise without looking back at the past, give this song a listen and draw courage from it!

Bad Idea Right?Olivia Rodrigo

Olivia Rodrigo – bad idea right? (Official Video)

Many people may be struggling with heartbreak or their relationships with exes.

That’s why I’d like to introduce “bad idea right?” This song is by singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo.

Set to a lively, guitar-driven sound, it portrays a woman torn over an invitation from her ex.

Although she’s really conflicted, the song presents it in a humorous way—that’s the key point.

Listening to it might just make you feel a bit lighter.

All Day LongThe Royal Concept

The Royal Concept – All Day Long

The Royal Concept is a rock band from Sweden.

“All Day Long,” released in 2023, is also the title track of their album.

It’s a guitar-driven pop song that carries the message: “Let’s break free from the daily bustle and go have some fun.” Listening to it will remind you to keep a playful spirit and relax, even during busy days.

It also works well as a seasonally themed track and a bittersweet coming-of-age song.

Yes I’m A MessAJR

AJR – Yes I’m A Mess (Official Visualizer)

If you’re thinking “I want to restart my life” or “I want to dive into a new environment,” give “Yes I’m A Mess” a listen.

It’s a track released by AJR, a pop band made up of three brothers.

Over a powerful sound, it tells the story of a man who cuts ties and sets off on a journey.

The song has a commanding, stately feel, so it’s the kind of track that can give you strength.

Be sure to watch the music video too, which unfolds with painting-like animation.

Race The NightAsh

Ash – Race The Night (Official Video)

Ash is a rock band from Northern Ireland.

If you’re into Western rock music in Japan, you probably know them.

Their new track, Race The Night, delivers a bright, era-evoking sound.

While you don’t see Ash in the mainstream much these days, they’re still going strong, so it’s highly recommended for anyone who wants to hear that straightforward rock from back in the day.

Be sure to check it out.

Choose Your Fighter (From Barbie The Album)Ava Max

Ava Max – Choose Your Fighter (From Barbie The Album) [Official Audio]

I’d like to introduce a unique love song: “Choose Your Fighter (From Barbie The Album).” It’s a track by singer-songwriter Ava Max that was featured in the film Barbie.

With a melody reminiscent of ’90s disco, it expresses a love so strong that you could become any version of yourself for the other person.

While this kind of sentiment is common, what makes this song stand out is the unusually quirky examples it uses to convey that feeling.

Little RunawayBenson Boone

Benson Boone – Little Runaway (Official Music Video)

Benson Boone, a singer-songwriter from Seattle, USA, is an artist who’s gone viral on TikTok.

“Little Runaway,” included on his EP PULSE released in May 2023, is a song that reaches out a helping hand to those who have lost their way.

Aimed at someone important who has lost confidence and withdrawn, the lyrics resonate as they stay by their side while conveying just how valuable they are.

His gentle yet powerful vocals are wonderful too, so be sure to give it a listen!