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

Shape Of My HeartSting8rank/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.

Just The Way You AreBruno Mars9rank/position

Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are (Official Music Video)

Bruno Mars, a genius who effortlessly commands pop and R&B.

This is one of his signature songs and a hugely popular choice for wedding background music.

Its charm lies, above all, in the lyrics that unabashedly and straightforwardly lavish praise on the one you love.

Just listening to it makes you feel happy.

Released in July 2010 as his solo debut single and included on the album Doo-Wops & Hooligans, this track also won at the 53rd Grammy Awards.

With piano at its core and an easy-to-remember melody, it’s very approachable to try.

If you sing it when expressing your feelings to someone special, it’s sure to be a hit!

SheElvis Costello10rank/position

Elvis Costello ‘She’

It’s a renowned ballad by Elvis Costello that exudes elegance and grandeur through its effective use of strings.

The lyrics, which sing of unwavering love for another and the resolve to embrace both joy and sorrow, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in 1999 as part of the soundtrack for the film Notting Hill, this number also features a superb arrangement spotlighting the London Symphony Orchestra.

It’s the perfect song for nights filled with longing or when you want to pour your feelings into thoughts of someone special.

It would also work wonderfully at weddings and receptions as a moving piece that can transform the atmosphere of the venue.

All of MeJohn Legend11rank/position

John Legend – All of Me (Official Video)

A heartfelt love anthem is powerfully sung by American singer-songwriter John Legend.

This piece is a piano ballad he dedicated to his fiancée (now his wife), expressing unconditional love that embraces every part of the other person.

Released as a single in August 2013, it was included on the album Love in the Future, which came out in September of the same year.

In May 2014, it reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts.

Known for its deep emotional expression and outstanding piano performance, it has become a popular wedding standard.

It’s a recommended song for anyone looking to deepen their bond with a loved one.

AlwaysBon Jovi12rank/position

Bon Jovi – Always (Official Music Video)

A ballad from the American rock band Bon Jovi themed around reconciliation.

It expresses lingering feelings and regret toward a former lover, along with a vow of eternal love.

Released as a single in September 1994, it reached No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a major international hit.

Its heartrending lyrics and dramatic melody resonate deeply, making it a recommended song for those seeking to heal the pain of heartbreak.

Jon Bon Jovi’s powerful vocals stir the listener’s emotions.

I Just Called to Say I Love YouStevie Wonder13rank/position

Amanda

Released as the theme song for the film The Woman in Red, Stevie Wonder’s I Just Called to Say I Love You was originally a song he had offered to the Japanese folk duo Bread & Butter, but Stevie released it first in 1984 for the movie.

It reached number one on three Billboard charts in the United States and also topped the UK Singles Chart.

It’s a poppy, charming ballad that straightforwardly expresses love for the other person.

Piano ManBilly Joel14rank/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!