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

OceanMartin Garrix feat. Khalid

Martin Garrix feat. Khalid – Ocean (Official Video)

The song “Ocean” by Dutch music producer Martin Garrix and Khalid.

Khalid began gaining international attention in 2016, and 2018—the year this track was released—saw him light up the charts in particular.

“Ocean” is one of his hit songs, with the arrangement by world-renowned producer Martin Garrix highlighting Khalid’s appeal.

Beyond its musicality, the lyrics—centered on an ocean theme and portraying tenderness toward a loved one—are also highly memorable.

OceansSeafret

Seafret – Oceans

This is a song by the British music duo Seafret, infused with the feeling of being distant from a lover or someone dear, and wishing that vast oceans could bridge that gap.

It conveys an island nation’s unique emotions toward the sea, making it a track that will likely feel familiar to Japanese listeners as well.

The guitar tone and resounding echoes carry a touch of melancholy, and as you listen, that special someone may come to mind.

It even gives you the sensation of watching a grand, cinematic film.

SeasideThe Kooks

The Kooks – Seaside

The Kooks are a British rock band, and “Seaside” is a song where you can fully enjoy the vocals of their singer, Luke Pritchard.

It’s included on the album Inside In / Inside Out and features a simple, guitar-centered melody that really brings out the warmth of his voice.

The lyrics, on the other hand, depict a romance by the sea, making it a perfect choice when you want to relax by the ocean.

The Ocean ft. Shy MartinMike Perry

Mike Perry – The Ocean ft. Shy Martin

Sweden has produced many world-class DJs.

In that fiercely competitive DJ scene, one artist who has gained international popularity for his talent is Mike Perry, who released The Ocean ft.

Shy Martin.

Shy Martin, who features on the track, is also a Swedish artist, and this song became a springboard for her global recognition.

Crafted by the two of them, the standout feature of the track is undoubtedly its breezy melody.

It was an early adopter of tropical house, which was becoming a trend in the mid-2010s, and its fresh, island-evoking sound leaves a strong impression.

CalypsoJohn Denver

John Denver – Calypso (Official Audio)

John Denver, the country singer best known for “Country Roads.” In his song “Calypso,” he sings about the historic ocean research vessel Calypso.

Featuring mandolin and harp, the track carries a somewhat European atmosphere.

It also incorporates yodel-like vocals, making it a bold piece for a country singer.

It’s a song brimming with romance and longing for the sea.

Be sure to check it out!

OceanKAROL G

KAROL G – Ocean (Official Video)

Karol G, a Colombian singer-songwriter who won Best New Artist at the Latin Grammy Awards in 2018.

Her 2019 release “Ocean” seems to be infused with sensibilities drawn from her experiences on the beaches of Tenerife, Spain.

Set to a gentle piano melody, it expresses deep feelings for a loved one and gratitude for being together.

Spending time and having fun with someone you love can fill your heart and make you happy, right? It’s a beautiful ballad you’ll want to listen to on the way home at sunset, as you look back on joyful moments by the sea.

(Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The BayOtis Redding

Otis Redding – (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay (Official Music Video)

“The Dock of the Bay” is a single released in 1968 by American singer-songwriter Otis Redding.

With a laid-back, relaxed feel, it reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

However, by that time, Otis Redding, who sang it, had already passed away in a plane crash.