Top Ballad Songs by Male Western Artists: Popular Rankings [2025]

WomanJohn Lennon71rank/position

WOMAN. (Ultimate Mix, 2020) – John Lennon (official music video HD)

Among his works included on the album Double Fantasy, this is a highly popular ballad that almost everyone has heard somewhere at least once.

Written by John Lennon during his lifetime for his wife Yoko Ono and for all women, the song is a warm and gentle piece overflowing with love and admiration for women.

As for works that embed an anti-war message into Christmas releases—later to become numerous—I believe this was the first.

After the Beatles disbanded, he went on to release more songs with strong messages, but I consider this one the pinnacle.

Missing YouJohn Waite72rank/position

John Waite – Missing You

It’s a classic ballad that represents the ’80s, with John Waite’s poignant voice resonating deeply in the heart.

It masterfully portrays the pain of heartbreak and the inner conflict of lying to oneself, gripping listeners and never letting go.

Released in June 1984, it reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It was also featured in the film “Warm Bodies,” gaining love from a new generation.

This song is recommended for those trying to overcome the pain of a breakup or those who continue to think of someone dear.

John Waite’s soulful vocals are sure to comfort your heart.

Glimpse of UsJoji73rank/position

Joji – Glimpse of Us

George, a singer from Japan, has been making waves around the world and has even been featured on TV.

The song that stirred up buzz when he released it in 2022 was “Glimpse of Us.” It reflects on memories with a woman who left him and delves into deep sorrow.

Since the lyrics don’t depict specific situations, you can relate them to all kinds of scenarios.

The simple piano melody further enhances the wistfulness of the words.

FaithfullyJourney74rank/position

Journey – Faithfully (Official HD Video – 1983)

Journey is a rock band whose piercing high notes from Steve Perry feel so good.

Their “Faithfully” is a power ballad where Neal Schon’s soaring guitar tone sets your heart ablaze.

The keyboard phrases also add extra weight and richness to the track.

Journey has other power ballads like “Open Arms” and “Send Her My Love,” so be sure to check them out!

GhostJustin Bieber75rank/position

Justin Bieber – Ghost

This song included on the album Justice sings of lost love and feelings for someone dear, set to a gentle melody.

Justin Bieber’s warm vocals offer a comforting sense of closeness to the listener.

Released in 2021, the track received high acclaim on charts around the world.

The music video features actress Diane Keaton and portrays family bonds and healing from loss.

It’s a song that will surely soothe your heart when you’re thinking of someone special or in need of comfort.

I’ll Show YouJustin Bieber76rank/position

Justin Bieber – I’ll Show You

A gem of a track that depicts the complexity of society and personal growth.

The powerful vocals of T.

I.

and Pusha T resonate deeply.

With lyrics that candidly portray success and setbacks in the Black community and the struggle for self-definition, it shakes the listener to the core.

Released in October 2012, this work struck a chord with many and became a hot topic among hip-hop fans.

It’s especially recommended for those standing at a crossroads in life or trying to carve out their own path.

This is a song imbued with a powerful message that supports those seeking their place in society.

MirrorsJustin Timberlake77rank/position

Justin Timberlake – Mirrors (Official Video)

This song is known as a classic heart-stirring Western pop ballad.

Released in February 2013, it appears on the artist’s third album, The 20/20 Experience.

Inspired by the artist’s relationship with his wife and his grandparents’ long marriage, it centers on themes of deep love and mutual understanding, portraying one’s lover as an “other half.” Spanning eight minutes with emotive strings and beatboxing, it became a hit in many countries—reaching No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and No.

1 in the United Kingdom.

It’s a perfect pick when you want to feel the bond with someone special or embark on a journey of self-discovery.