Popular Western Ballad Songs Ranking [2025]

Careless WhisperGeorge Michael78rank/position

George Michael – Careless Whisper (Official Video)

It’s a timeless masterpiece filled with bittersweet emotion, where jazz and pop melodies resonate beautifully.

Released in 1984 as George Michael’s first solo single while he was a member of Wham!, it became a worldwide hit.

Topping the charts in over 20 countries, it showcased George Michael’s talent as a solo artist to the world.

The lyrics, centered on the end of a romantic relationship and betrayal, deeply resonate with many listeners.

It’s a song you’ll want to hear if you’re feeling the pain of heartbreak or a sense of regret.

Loved across generations, it continues to influence countless people, and was even chosen by Smooth Radio listeners as their favorite song in the All-Time Top 500 of 2022.

WolvesSelena Gomez, Marshmello79rank/position

Selena Gomez, Marshmello – Wolves

“Wolves,” a collaboration between the world-renowned singer Selena Gomez and DJ Marshmello.

When people think of Selena Gomez, many probably imagine stylish melodies.

This song pleasantly defies that image with a powerful melody.

If you want to see a new side of Selena Gomez, be sure to check it out! It’s also recommended for those looking for an easy-to-listen ballad.

Without YouMariah Carey80rank/position

Mariah Carey – Without You (Official HD Music Video)

Mariah Carey, an American female singer known for her five-octave vocal range, has produced numerous classic songs.

Among them, a recommended ballad is “Without You.” Originally a song by the British rock band Badfinger, it has been covered by many artists.

Of the more than 180 covers, Mariah Carey’s version is particularly famous, rendered as a moving ballad with a well-balanced blend of R&B.

I Want To Know What Love IsForeigner81rank/position

Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is (Official Music Video)

A song by the British-American rock band Foreigner, known as a leading example of stadium rock that incorporates hard rock and AOR.

Included on their fifth album, Agent Provocateur, it became one of their signature tracks, reaching No.

1 on both the U.

S.

and U.

K.

charts in 1985.

It expresses a poignant yearning to understand what true love is, overcoming the heartache and loneliness experienced in past relationships.

Lou Gramm’s soulful vocals combined with a gospel choir create a majestic harmony that brings a sacred atmosphere capable of stirring the listener’s soul.

It’s an emotional ballad whose prayer-like message resonates deeply when you’re searching for something in life.

STAYBLACKPINK82rank/position

BLACKPINK – ‘STAY’ M/V

K-pop has become popular in Japan, and now it’s gaining popularity in Europe and the United States as well.

Among them, BLACKPINK is one of the most popular female K-pop idol groups and has become well-known in Japan too.

Their song “STAY” is one of BLACKPINK’s signature ballads, and its acoustic sound—now rare among contemporary pop artists—is particularly appealing.

Piano ManBilly Joel83rank/position

Billy Joel – Piano Man (Official HD Video)

Billy Joel’s “Piano Man” is his first hit song, released in 1973.

It’s based on Joel’s own experiences, and it’s said that the people who appear in the lyrics are modeled on real individuals.

The intro, which begins with a jazzy, rolling piano phrase, is very stylish.

In the instrumental break, you can also hear Joel’s piano solo, which carries a slightly bluesy feel.

“Piano Man” is a track that lets you fully enjoy Joel’s piano, so be sure to give it a listen!

BeautifulBazzi feat. Camila Cabello84rank/position

Bazzi feat. Camila Cabello – Beautiful [Official Music Video]

This is a very sweet and romantic song woven with distinctly American values.

Sung with Bazzio’s sweet vocals, the lyrics are a seriously blush-worthy love song.

And, as always, Camila Cabello’s voice is one of a kind, offering a fresh musical experience.

Their duet is a beautiful track where their voices intertwine and play off each other brilliantly.