Popular Western Ballad Songs Ranking [2025]

Thinking Out LoudEd Sheeran22rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud (Official Music Video)

A gem of a love song that gently sings of the wonder of eternal love.

It’s a single from the British artist Ed Sheeran’s 2014 June album “×.” With a warm gaze upon two people growing old together as time passes, it paints the unchanging depth of their love.

The music video, memorable for its graceful dance scenes with American dancer Brittany Cherry, was completed after Sheeran practiced for three weeks.

At the 58th Annual Grammy Awards in 2016, it won Song of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance.

It was also used as an insert song in the film “Me Before You,” and is cherished as a wedding staple.

It’s a track that will make the days spent with your loved one shine even brighter.

WonderwallOasis23rank/position

Oasis – Wonderwall (Official Video)

An Oasis song that epitomizes ’90s Britpop opens with a strikingly picked guitar that immediately captures the listener and won’t let go.

Its lyrics vividly portray a desperate longing to lean on someone, an unshakable sense of loneliness, and a faint hope that still reaches for salvation.

Liam Gallagher’s vocals—powerful yet tinged with melancholy—delicately express those complex emotions.

Released as a single in October 1995, this classic appears on the landmark album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, which became a monumental hit in British music history.

In October 2020, it became the first song from the 1990s to surpass one billion streams.

It’s the kind of track that offers a quiet warmth, as if gently staying by your side, when you’re at a crossroads in life or on a night when your heart feels a little weary.

Love SomeoneLukas Graham24rank/position

Lukas Graham – Love Someone [Official Music Video]

Lukas Graham is a band that’s hugely popular in Denmark.

I think their pop, catchy songs are relatable to people all over the world.

This is one of their ballads.

Even though it’s a ballad, it’s not too heavy—it’s a wonderfully warm song, overflowing with love.

Shape Of My HeartSting25rank/position

Sting – Shape of My Heart (Official Music Video)

Sting, the singer-songwriter who represents the United Kingdom.

Among his works, this may be the most beloved medium-tempo ballad in Japan.

This piece portrays the feelings of a poker player who seeks the mystery of fate rather than victory.

In the lyrics, various meanings are assigned to the suits of the cards, and in the line where he sings that hearts do not represent his own heart, you can sense the protagonist’s profound loneliness and philosophy.

This intellectual worldview is beautifully expressed by Dominic Miller’s wistful guitar riff.

Included on the 1993 album “Ten Summoner’s Tales,” the song is also widely known as the ending theme of the film “Léon: The Professional.” Be sure to check it out alongside the film’s moving finale.

HonestyBilly Joel26rank/position

Billy Joel – Honesty (Official Video)

Billy Joel’s “Honesty” is a standout ballad from his 1978 album “52nd Street.” With piano and lyrics that resonated with the era, the song shines with particular emotional depth.

While addressing the theme of sincerity, it portrays the pain of the gap between the purity love seeks and the reality we face, carried by a lyrical melody that captivated listeners.

Showcasing Joel’s remarkable expressive power, the track has influenced many later generations.

It’s an enduring classic that makes you reflect on honesty every time you listen.

To Be With YouMr. BIG27rank/position

Mr. Big – To Be With You 4K Video

A rock band whose members all possess outstanding musicianship and enjoy immense popularity in Japan, Mr.

Big’s song is featured here.

Included on their second album, “Lean Into It,” it’s known as one of their signature tracks that reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts.

While it’s a ballad featuring acoustic guitar and soulful vocals, the prominent presence of both guitar and bass overflows with Mr.

Big’s distinctive character.

With exquisite choral work that elevates the song’s completeness, it’s a classic rock ballad that showcases the band’s pop sensibilities.

Purple RainPrince28rank/position

Purple Rain

The signature song “Purple Rain” by Prince, an artist who was active in the 1980s.

This ballad distills his diverse musical sensibilities and is also known as the soundtrack to the film “Prince: Purple Rain.” Blending elements of rock, R&B, and gospel, the track has earned high acclaim worldwide and influenced many artists.

In particular, Prince’s impassioned guitar solo captivates listeners.

Even after his passing, this masterpiece remains beloved by many, so be sure to check it out.