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

Last NightMorgan Wallen85rank/position

Morgan Wallen – Last Night (One Record At A Time Sessions)

A country-pop ballad that poignantly portrays the anguish of love.

After a drunken argument, the lingering feelings of a man who still wants to keep the relationship going seep through.

Included on the album “One Thing At A Time,” this track has dominated the Billboard charts since its March 2023 release, becoming one of the year’s standout hits.

Blending elements of country, rock, and hip-hop, it embodies a new frontier for Morgan Wallen.

It’s a perfect song not only for those struggling with conflicted relationships, but also for anyone seeking a glimmer of hope amid the heartache.

SmileMorgan Wallen86rank/position

Morgan Wallen – Smile (Official Music Video)

The country singer from the United States, Morgan Wallen, surprise-released a song on December 31, 2024—a moving ballad that delicately portrays the end of a romance.

Through a fleeting smile captured in a photograph, it contrasts past happiness with present distance, conveying the weight of a love that’s been lost.

Written with self-reflection and a mature perspective, the lyrics carry a depth that goes beyond a typical breakup song.

Created in collaboration with Ernest, the track also drew attention for its music video directed by Justin Clough.

It’s a recommended listen for anyone seeking to soothe the pain of heartbreak or to face memories from the past.

L-O-V-ENat King Cole87rank/position

NAT KING COLE L-O-V-E

L-O-V-E, one of the signature songs by American jazz pianist and singer Nat King Cole.

If you’re into jazz, you probably know it, and even if you’re not, there’s a good chance you’ve heard it before.

Its charm lies in the way it sings about love with a mellow, silky voice over a sprightly rhythm.

The tune is so pleasing to the ear that you can remember it after just one listen—an appeal that sets it apart from other songs.

It has been featured in commercials such as Y!mobile and Asahi Beer, so you’ve likely heard it somewhere.

Nothing Without LoveNate Ruess88rank/position

Nate Ruess: Nothing Without Love [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

A solo debut single released in 2015 by American singer Nate Ruess, also known as the lead vocalist of fun.

The track features falsetto vocals and an emotional piano melody, and it became a hit in countries such as the United States and Belgium.

Every Time You Go AwayPaul Young89rank/position

Paul Young – Everytime You Go Away (Official Video)

Paul Young, hailing from England, became a massive hit around the world.

Known as a leading figure in blue-eyed soul, he won Best British Male at the 1985 Brit Awards.

This famous ballad of his is a song about searing loss, as if a piece of your heart is taken each time someone you love leaves.

The singing, fretless-bass melody is striking as well.

Released as a single from the classic album The Secret of Association, it reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts in July 1985.

It’s also well known for being featured in the film Planes, Trains and Automobiles.

Put it on during a sentimental night, and its gentle melody just might seep into your heart.

Glory of LovePeter Cetera90rank/position

Glory of Love

This is a powerful song that passionately portrays a man’s romance as he fights to the end for the one he loves, with an eternal vow in his heart.

The soaring high-tone vocals and grand melody express unwavering resolve and devoted love.

Released by Peter Cetera as a solo artist in June 1986, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 for two consecutive weeks.

It was also used as the theme song for the film The Karate Kid Part II and was nominated for both the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes.

Included on the album Solitude/Solitaire, it has sold over one million copies.

It’s a perfect choice for moments when you want to make a heartfelt vow or convey your love to someone special, and it works beautifully as an emotional wedding BGM as well.

A Groovy Kind Of LovePhil Collins91rank/position

Phil Collins – A Groovy Kind Of Love (Official Music Video)

A single released in 1988.

It’s included on the soundtrack for the film “Buster,” which came out the same year.

Born in 1951, he’s a London-born musician and the drummer of Genesis.

His daughter is the actress Lily Collins.

Hearing him sing over the melancholy melody line makes my chest tighten.