Popular Western Ballad Songs Ranking [2025]

Never Say GoodbyeBon Jovi85rank/position

Bon Jovi – Never Say Goodbye (Official Music Video)

A gem of a Bon Jovi ballad that wraps a romantic declaration of love in a grand, sweeping sound.

Featured on the 1986 album “Slippery When Wet,” it became a massive hit, especially across Europe.

While depicting a heartbreaking moment of parting, the lyrics convey a powerful resolve to never say goodbye, striking a deep chord.

Jon Bon Jovi’s emotive vocals and Richie Sambora’s memorable guitar solo are captivating.

As one of the defining power ballads of the ’80s, it remains a beloved classic to this day.

OneU286rank/position

U2 – One (Official Music Video)

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.

Lift Me UpRihanna87rank/position

Rihanna – Lift Me Up (From Black Panther: Wakanda Forever)

A ballad by Rihanna, the songstress from Barbados, featuring a movingly beautiful melody and powerful vocals.

Released in October 2022 as part of the soundtrack for the film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the piece is imbued with feelings for the late actor.

Its sound gently envelops the sorrow of losing someone dear, and its lyrics offer the courage to look forward, resonating deeply.

It’s a song that stands by those who have experienced heartbreak or farewell—a heartwarming ballad perfect for a quiet, unhurried night.

AngelAerosmith88rank/position

Aerosmith – Angel (Official Music Video)

“Angel,” with its emotionally charged guitar solo in the intro, leaves a strong impression.

This song is a very famous ballad by the American rock legends Aerosmith, included on their 1987 album “Permanent Vacation.” The transition from Joey Kramer’s pre-chorus drum hits into Steven Tyler’s powerful vocals is a textbook example of a power ballad’s beautiful flow—and it’s truly moving!

RunLeona Lewis89rank/position

Leona Lewis – Run (Official Video)

Originally by the band Snow Patrol, whose members hail from Ireland and Scotland, the song was covered by Leona Lewis in 2008.

It unfolds from a low, bass piano melody into a sweeping ballad.

Leona’s vocals are soul-stirring, and I also recommend the music video, where she sings powerfully against a vast landscape with an almost divine presence.

These DreamsHeart90rank/position

Heart – These Dreams

Included on the 1985 album “Heart.” A six-member rock band from Seattle formed in 1973.

The melody carries a dreamy, allegorical atmosphere that leaves a strong impression, and I think Nancy’s vocals—taking the lead here—match the overall tone of the song beautifully, making it a fine track.

Don’t Know WhyNorah Jones91rank/position

Norah Jones – Don’t Know Why

The song that cemented the popularity of jazz singer Norah Jones is “Don’t Know Why.” Released in 2002, it won three categories at the 2003 Grammy Awards: Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

The piano melody you hear in the intro and interlude is played in octaves, making it very striking.

The phrases inserted throughout the song are stylish as well, showcasing Norah Jones’s refined sensibility.