Ballad songs from Western music that were hits in the 2000s
The 2000s were a turbulent era in the long history of music, with various genres—like EDM and punk rock, which are now taken for granted—coloring each moment in time.
While the 2000s saw the birth of many genres, it was also a period that could be called the golden age of R&B.
This time, we’ve picked out Western ballads that were hits in the 2000s.
Given the era, there’s a lineup of R&B masterpieces, so this is a must-see for fans of Black music!
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Ballad songs from Western music that were hits in the 2000s (11–20)
FoolishAshanti
This R&B classic captures the frustration and unbreakable attachment of being unable to leave an unfaithful lover.
It’s performed by Ashanti, a powerhouse American singer and Grammy winner.
Even when you know you’re being cheated on, even as you blame yourself for being foolish, you still can’t stop loving them.
.
.
Have you ever found yourself stuck in that kind of messy relationship? If trying to forget only makes you think about them more, then, like this song suggests, letting yourself sink fully into the melancholy might actually help you confront your own feelings.
Released in February 2002, this track achieved the remarkable feat of spending 10 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 as a single from the acclaimed album “Ashanti.”
More Than ThatBackstreet Boys
This is a classic Backstreet Boys ballad whose gentle acoustic guitar arpeggios and gorgeous strings will make you swoon.
Its heartfelt portrayal of the feeling, “I don’t want to be just friends,” has captured the hearts of many fans.
The protagonist’s effort to convey a love deeper than words overlaps with the exquisite harmonies of the five members, resonating deeply in the listener’s heart.
Released as a single from the acclaimed album Black & Blue, it became a hit when it came out in April 2001, reaching No.
27 on the U.
S.
charts.
Thanks to its romantic atmosphere, many people choose it as a song to play at their weddings.
It’s the perfect track for a night when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special.
Here Without You3 Doors Down
Three Doors Down boasts a wide musical range from post-grunge to alternative rock.
Their signature song “Here Without You” became a major hit in 2003, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100.
The track vividly portrays the loneliness of the guitarist while on tour, far away from his young son, and centers on the aching emotions of longing for someone distant.
Many listeners likely related to its message that hearts remain connected across the miles.
It’s a song that especially resonates with those in long-distance relationships or anyone living apart from someone they cherish, offering a powerful sense of shared feeling.
A Thousand MilesVanessa Carlton
This piano ballad, crafted by American singer-songwriter Vanessa Carlton, poignantly captures the ache of unrequited love.
Having studied classical music from a young age and trained at the Juilliard School, Carlton showcases her exceptional piano skills through a sweeping melodic line that beautifully harmonizes with lyrics expressing heartfelt honesty toward a cherished person.
Released as a single from her 2002 debut album, Be Not Nobody, it reached No.
5 on the U.
S.
charts and received two nominations at the 45th Grammy Awards.
Also known for its memorable appearance in the film White Chicks, this song gently embraces the universal feeling of longing for a distant lover—an evocative piece that resonates when you’re hoping to reunite with someone special.
Big Girls Don’t CryFergie
A poignant pop ballad that weaves a strong will for independence together with delicate acoustic guitar tones.
Hailing from the United States, Fergie released this gem as a solo artist in May 2007 while she was active as a member of the Black Eyed Peas.
Included on the album The Dutchess, the song reached No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went on to dominate charts around the world.
It also won Best Female Video at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan.
With its powerful vocals telling a story of growth and determination, this track gently encourages anyone ready to take a new step forward.
You And MeLifehouse
This is a gemlike love ballad by Lifehouse, one of America’s defining rock bands.
It gently sings of the exhilaration of falling in love and the pure feeling that makes everything else fade away in the world of two.
With a simple arrangement centered on acoustic guitar, Jason Wade’s warm vocals resonate deeply.
Included on the album “Lifehouse,” released in March 2005, it became a major hit, reaching No.
5 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It was also featured in the TV dramas Smallville and Grey’s Anatomy, earning support from a broad audience.
This song is perfect for moments when you want to be wrapped in the warmth of someone special or to express your honest feelings of love.
Ballad songs in Western music that were hits in the 2000s (21–30)
With YouChris Brown
This song is notable for its acoustic guitar tones that gently wrap around a sweet, bittersweet feeling of love.
Featured on American R&B singer Chris Brown’s album “Exclusive,” released in December 2007, it captivated many listeners with its simple yet comfortable melody line.
It peaked at No.
2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieved 6× Platinum certification from the RIAA, marking major commercial success.
In the music video, set against the streetscapes of Los Angeles, Chris Brown delivers an expressive dance performance that was highly praised at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards.
Warm and comforting, it’s a track that accompanies the feeling of being in love—perfect for moments when you want to reminisce about someone special.