Hidden gems of Western ballad songs. Recommended popular tracks.
I put together a playlist of hidden gems among Western ballads.
It mainly features tracks from albums released in the 1980s, a decade that produced a wealth of dramatic ballads.
For those in their forties and up, it might bring back some memories.
Hidden gem ballads in Western music: recommended popular songs (1–10)
In Your EyesPeter Gabriel
From an intro infused with world music elements, this masterpiece immediately draws you into a grand realm of love.
Created by the innovative British musician Peter Gabriel, the track appears on his acclaimed 1986 album So.
It’s a universal love song that sings of a soul-deep bond—finding salvation, a future, and a place to return within a loved one’s eyes.
With the prayerful vocals of Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour, the entire piece radiates a sacred aura.
Featured in the iconic 1989 film Say Anything… during the scene where the protagonist holds up a boombox, it became known as a timeless anthem of love.
On a night when you want to feel the presence of someone special anew, why not surrender to this song’s warm yet passionate sound?
Shape Of My HeartSting
Sting, the singer-songwriter who represents the United Kingdom.
Among his works, this may be the most beloved medium-tempo ballad in Japan.
This piece portrays the feelings of a poker player who seeks the mystery of fate rather than victory.
In the lyrics, various meanings are assigned to the suits of the cards, and in the line where he sings that hearts do not represent his own heart, you can sense the protagonist’s profound loneliness and philosophy.
This intellectual worldview is beautifully expressed by Dominic Miller’s wistful guitar riff.
Included on the 1993 album “Ten Summoner’s Tales,” the song is also widely known as the ending theme of the film “Léon: The Professional.” Be sure to check it out alongside the film’s moving finale.
Bed of RosesBon Jovi
This is a power ballad by Bon Jovi, an American rock band that evolved their sound from 1980s glam metal to a more mature hard rock style.
Released as a single in January 1993 from the acclaimed 1992 album Keep the Faith, it reached No.
10 on the U.
S.
charts.
It opens with a gentle piano melody, and Jon Bon Jovi’s emotionally rich high tenor resonates achingly in the heart.
The song expresses steadfast, selfless love: a vow to shoulder any pain to bring the utmost comfort to a beloved.
A long, passionate guitar solo is another highlight, sweeping you into the song’s dramatic world.
It’s a gem best savored on a quiet night when you’re thinking of someone dear.
Lover, You Should’ve Come OverJeff Buckley
This is an achingly beautiful soul ballad left behind by the legendary American singer Jeff Buckley, who died far too young at 30.
It sings of the helpless regret and burning longing after a breakup.
If you’ve ever let go of someone precious because of youthful mistakes, you’ll likely find this song deeply relatable.
Wishing “I wanted you to come see me,” only to realize it’s too late—those feelings with nowhere to go are truly painful.
The track appears on the classic album Grace and was also featured in the drama FlashForward.
Even decades after its August 1994 release, it continues to move hearts.
On a quiet night when you want to be alone with your thoughts, you might let yourself sink into this heavenly voice.
Every Breath You TakeThe Police
The Police are a British band that rose to prominence in the late 1970s with their innovative musical style that blended rock with reggae elements.
This work is their signature song, released in May 1983.
In Japan, it’s frequently heard in commercials, so many people may recognize the melody.
At first glance, it seems like a romantic love song, but the lyrics depict a slightly unsettling side—intense obsession with and surveillance of a lover.
This imbalance between the sweet melody and stalker-like lyrics becomes a compelling charm that captivates listeners.
Featured on the classic album Synchronicity, the song spent eight consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts.
It is a masterpiece ballad that is not merely beautiful, but one that delves into the depths of human psychology.
OneU2
U2 is a rock band from Ireland that has never undergone a lineup change since their debut and holds the astonishing record of 22 Grammy Awards.
This work is a single cut from their 1991 masterpiece Achtung Baby, a soul-stirring ballad that became the catalyst for the band to overcome a crisis of breaking up.
Rather than simply singing “let’s become one,” its lyrics portray both the difficulty and the preciousness of acknowledging each other’s differences, resonating deeply with listeners.
The universality of its message is evident from the huge success of the 2006 collaboration version with Mary J.
Blige.
It’s a song that quietly stays by your side when you’re struggling with relationships or reflecting on the bonds you share with someone important.
It was also featured in the film The Family Man.
Fast CarTracy Chapman
“Fast Car,” included on American singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman’s debut album Tracy Chapman.
Released in 1988, the song’s poignant acoustic guitar melody and her deep, soulful vocals capture the listener and won’t let go.
It tells the story of a protagonist who dreams of escaping a life of poverty.
They pin their hopes for freedom on a “fast car,” but their partner falls into decline, and the dream slips further away.
The raw lyrics, where hope and despair intersect, are truly moving.
In fact, the song became a worldwide hit after her performance at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert in June 1988.
When you’re yearning to change your circumstances, listening to it may quietly give you courage through the protagonist’s journey.