[2025] Ballad Songs in Western Music That Suit the Sea

CarusoLucio Dalla

Lucio Dalla – Caruso (Live Video)

One of the greatest songs in history, “Caruso,” was written by Italian singer-songwriter Lucio Dalla.

The song portrays the late-life romance of the real-life opera singer Enrico Caruso, and it is held in the highest regard across Europe, not only in Italy.

Toward the end of his life, Caruso was nearly bedridden due to illness, and his wife is said to have cared for him constantly.

The setting was a hotel overlooking the sea in Sorrento, and the lyrics reflect not only the emotions but also these historical details.

The sea plays a central role in this profoundly moving piece, so be sure to check it out.

The SeaMorcheeba

Morcheeba – The Sea – Big Calm (1998)

This song opens Morcheeba’s second album, Big Calm, released in 1998 by the UK band fronted by their sole female vocalist, Skye Edwards.

Its rhythm evokes the gentle sound of waves, blending beautifully with Edwards’s clear voice to lead listeners toward seascape vistas.

The lyrics, which portray a longing for the ocean, freedom, and an escape from the bustle of the city, function as a metaphor for life’s journey and self-discovery.

It’s perfect both for summer drives and for relaxing on nights when your heart needs a breather.

A highly recommended track for anyone wishing to slip away from everyday noise, if only for a while.

Never Dreamed You’d Leave In SummerStevie Wonder

Never Dreamed You’d Leave In Summer

When it comes to love ballads that are perfect for the sea, many people might think of “Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer.” This track, featured on Stevie Wonder’s 1971 album “Where I’m Coming From,” portrays a heartbreak on a summer day.

Listening to it will surely soothe you with its emotional vocals.

And the ultra-long final note is truly breathtaking!

Come Sail AwayStyx

Styx – Come Sail Away

“Come Sail Away,” a classic by the American progressive rock band Styx that epitomizes the 1970s.

It’s a song that stirs your sense of adventure.

It begins with Dennis DeYoung’s piano-and-vocal intro, and his clear, high tenor is so beautiful you can’t help but be captivated.

In the latter half, true to prog rock, it shifts into a full-band arrangement.

With the sea as its theme and a grand, expansive arrangement, it’s a refreshing track.

augustTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – august (Official Lyric Video)

Taylor Swift, who is widely loved in Japan as well, is not to be missed—especially her song “august.” As the title suggests, it’s about August.

But rather than the first half of the month, it evokes the late-summer atmosphere, singing about a romance that comes to an end along with the season.

Why not listen to it when you’re spending a quiet, reflective moment alone? It’s also perfect for looking back on your summer memories.

In any case, her gentle voice is soothing.

KokomoThe Beach Boys

The Beach Boys – Kokomo (1988)

The Beach Boys’ “Kokomo” is well-known as the theme song for the film Cocktail! In the movie, Tom Cruise plays a bartender who experiences a forbidden romance at a Jamaican resort, which leads to a complicated turn of events.

Matching the film’s storyline, the song also evokes Jamaica.

In fact, “Kokomo” is the name of a famous resort spot in Jamaica! As for the melody, it features instruments like steel drums and bongos, creating a strong tropical vibe.

Japan may not have resort destinations like Jamaica or Bali, but just listening to this song and relaxing can make you feel like you’re on vacation!

Octopus’s GardenThe Beatles

Octopus’s Garden (Remastered 2009)

Octopus’s Garden, one of The Beatles’ hit songs, is probably familiar to many since it’s often featured in commercials.

It’s well known as a rare track composed by Ringo Starr.

Among fans, it’s famous that even when he showed new songs to the other members, they often wouldn’t let him release them—but in fact, he was behind popular Beatles songs like Yellow Submarine and Octopus’s Garden.

The lyrics are fun for children too, so it might be a great one to enjoy with the whole family!