![[Western Music] The World of Power Ballads: A Collection of Must-Listen Gems to Start With](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/8SbUC-UaAxE/maxresdefault.webp)
[Western Music] The World of Power Ballads: A Collection of Must-Listen Gems to Start With
Have you ever heard the term “power ballad”? It refers to songs in the ballad style that incorporate emotional guitar solos and solid, heavy drums, often featuring rich backing vocals, beautiful strings, and piano.
In fact, they’ve been around since the 1970s.
For those who know the golden age of Western music in the 1980s, the term is familiar, but many younger music fans may not know it well.
Even bands from heavier genres of the time, like heavy metal and hard rock, usually had at least one classic power ballad on their albums.
This time, we’ll be introducing some of the greatest power ballads in Western music!
[Western Music] The World of Power Ballads: A Curated Collection of Must-Listen Gems (1–10)
November RainGuns N’ Roses
“November Rain” is a hugely famous power ballad with over 2 billion views of its music video on YouTube.
Released in 1991 by the American rock band Guns N’ Roses, the song is built on a beautiful piano accompaniment, while the powerful drums and bass resonate deep in the soul.
And most notable is the tear-jerking guitar solo.
In particular, the outro solo, which sounds almost like a scream, is something that anyone who loves Western rock and plays electric guitar has probably tried to copy at least once.
Purple RainPrince
Prince, with his charismatic musicianship and visuals, has a legion of passionate fans.
Not only is he a vocalist, but he’s also a multi-instrumentalist who can play a variety of instruments, especially the guitar.
His song Purple Rain is the soundtrack to the film “Prince: Purple Rain,” and it’s a power ballad electrified by searing shouts.
The extended guitar solo he performs himself is deeply emotional and truly compelling, so be sure to lend an ear to that as well!
AlwaysBon Jovi
Bon Jovi is a rock band with catchy melodies and an easy-to-listen-to band sound, making them a great recommendation even for newcomers to Western rock.
Released in 1994, “Always” is a standout in their career and a power ballad that’s extremely popular among fans.
The absolute must-hear highlight is Jon Bon Jovi’s cool, slightly husky vocal tone! The chorus, where he sustains near-shout notes in long tones, is absolutely breathtaking.
Mama, I’m Coming HomeOzzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne is an iconic heavy metal band led by vocalist Ozzy Osbourne.
While many of their songs are intense, “Mama, I’m Coming Home” is a deeply sweet and bittersweet power ballad.
The nostalgic atmosphere created by the beautiful acoustic guitar tones blended with Ozzy Osbourne’s richly textured voice is irresistible.
Also pay attention to the powerful, intensifying band sound as the song builds toward the end!
I Want To Know What Love IsForeigner
“I Want To Know What Love Is” is a quintessential power ballad released by the rock band Foreigner in 1984.
The song’s appeal lies in its richly layered harmonies, and the addition of keyboards creates an even more expansive, weighty sound.
Rather than driving hard with distorted guitars, it stays focused on showcasing the vocals, making it a uniquely crafted track that’s well worth a listen.
Home Sweet HomeMötley Crüe
Motley Crüe, the rock band that has led the stadium rock genre with their flashy visuals and performances.
Their 1985 release Home Sweet Home is a power ballad that reflects on their hometown.
The song opens with the piano played by the band’s drummer, Tommy Lee, and then Vince Neil’s vocals gently come in over it.
The rest of the band joins, creating a track where you can enjoy a beautiful melody and a powerful band sound characteristic of a power ballad.
Can’t Fight This FeelingREO Speed Wagon
REO Speedwagon is a rock band whose 1980 album Hi Infidelity recorded phenomenal sales.
Their 1984 release Can’t Fight This Feeling is a power ballad where I especially want you to pay attention to the guitar solo.
In particular, the mid-song guitar solo begins with very high notes called harmonics, adding a great touch of spice to the otherwise calm mood of the song—it makes you want to listen to it over and over!