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 in Western music that were hits in the 2000s (21–30)
No OneAlicia Keys
This song, which powerfully sings of true love and the resolve to overcome its obstacles, is a warm, exquisite love ballad released in September 2007 as the lead single from the album “As I Am.” The emotionally rich piano melodies crafted by New York–born Alicia Keys and the stirring interplay with her powerful vocals resonate deeply.
The track was featured in the trailer for the film “27 Dresses” and in the TV series “Ugly Betty,” and it received high acclaim, winning two awards at the 50th Grammy Awards.
It’s a song that gently gives you a push—when you want to cherish your feelings for someone you love, or when you need courage in your daily life.
ForeverChris Brown
A gem of a love song about sweet, bittersweet feelings of romance was released in April 2008 by American R&B singer Chris Brown.
Blending electronic beats with R&B for a smooth, comfortable sound, it effectively incorporates elements of dance music.
With a melody filled with honest emotion and silky vocals in perfect harmony, the track became a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100.
Featured on the album “Exclusive: The Forever Edition,” it has captivated listeners around the world.
Though it has the unusual background of being created as a jingle for a Doublemint gum commercial, its warm, supportive tone toward those in love gives it a timeless appeal as a love song.
My LoveJustin Timberlake
An exquisite love song woven from a heart-stirringly beautiful melody, polished beats, and the soul-filled vocals of American artist Justin Timberlake.
Released in October 2006, this work opened up new possibilities for pop and R&B through its brilliant collaboration with rapper T.
I.
The fusion of powerful rap and luscious vocals perfectly captures the exhilaration of falling in love.
Featured on the album FutureSex/LoveSounds, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 and won a Grammy Award.
It’s the perfect soundtrack for special moments with someone you love or for a romantic nighttime drive.
Because Of YouNe-Yo
An enchanting love song woven from a sophisticated R&B sound and danceable rhythms.
Released in February 2007, this work portrays the nuances of mature romance as showcased by the American artist Ne-Yo.
The exquisite melody, expressing a heart swaying between love and desire with a sweet, aching vocal delivery, evokes the elegance of Michael Jackson.
Nominated for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance at the 50th Grammy Awards and reaching No.
2 on the U.
S.
singles chart, this masterpiece was co-produced with Stargate.
It’s a track that resonates beautifully during a club date or a romantic moment with someone special.
You Belong With MeTaylor Swift
This youthful love song, depicting sweet and bittersweet feelings, is a work woven from the high school experiences of American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift.
Inspired by overhearing a conversation between a couple of friends, it was created with pure emotion.
Released in April 2009 as the third single from the album Fearless, the song brilliantly fuses traditional country instrumentation with rock sounds.
It received international acclaim, winning Best Female Video at the MTV Video Music Awards and reaching No.
2 on the U.
S.
Billboard Hot 100.
Celebrating fresh feelings for a next-door best friend, this track is recommended for anyone who wants to empathize with the emotions of being in love or indulge in memories of their youth.
How to Save a LifeThe Fray
Beginning with a piano timbre that gently touches the heart, this love song is marked by a moving melody where tenderness and wistfulness intersect.
Created by The Fray from Denver, Colorado, and infused with feelings born from their interactions with young people, the piece beautifully captures the pure wish to save someone and the difficulty of doing so.
Selected from the album “How to Save a Life,” released in September 2005, it reached No.
3 on the U.
S.
Billboard charts.
It was also featured in the popular drama Grey’s Anatomy, stirring hearts around the world.
For those carrying feelings for someone important yet unsure how to convey them, this song has long been cherished as one that gently gives a supportive push.
In conclusion
While the ’80s and ’90s saw many ballads in the rock scene, I remember feeling that this era had an especially large number of ballads in Black music.
For those who usually listen to pop music, these grooves—both fresh and sweet—may have felt like a new experience.
At Rug Music, we also introduce Western ballads tailored to various eras.
Be sure to check those out too!