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

Don’t Take Your Love AwayAvant36rank/position

Avant – Don’t Take Your Love Away (Official Music Video)

When it comes to ballads that defined the 2000s, Avant’s “Don’t Take Your Love Away” is indispensable.

This song is truly a love anthem overflowing with emotion.

The tender yet aching desire not to lose someone comes through clearly in Avant’s careful, heartfelt vocals.

The lyrics honestly acknowledge his own mistakes and carry a firm resolve never to repeat them.

That depth of message and emotional swell speaks straight to the heart, not through vague wording but with directness.

If you love R&B or moving ballads, be sure to check it out.

Stand By MeBen E. King37rank/position

Stand By Me

A timelessly beloved American singer-songwriter, Ben E.

King, is celebrated for a masterpiece that stands as a quintessential heart-stirring ballad.

Released in August 1961, the song reached No.

1 on the R&B chart and No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It was re-released in 1986 as a movie theme and once again dominated the charts.

Its message—about the importance of supporting one another even in darkness and uncertain times—continues to resonate with many today.

Covered by over 400 artists, it’s also known as a popular choice for weddings.

This is a highly recommended song for anyone who wants to reaffirm the presence of a special person who stays by their side when facing life’s hardships.

Just the Way You AreBilly Joel38rank/position

Billy Joel – Just the Way You Are (Official Audio)

Singer-songwriter Billy Joel from New York.

Isn’t it the ultimate love song that tells you, “You don’t have to make witty conversation, and you don’t need to wear trendy clothes.

You’re most wonderful just the way you are”? The anecdote that the melody came to him in a dream is romantic, too.

This track is a single from the classic 1977 album The Stranger, and at first it was nearly left off because it didn’t seem to fit the album.

However, it went on to earn two Grammys in 1979.

The sound of the warm Fender Rhodes blending with the sweet saxophone gently colors the time you spend with someone special.

The Longest TimeBilly Joel39rank/position

Billy Joel – The Longest Time (Official HD Video)

Included on the 1983 album “An Innocent Man.” Born in 1949, he is a singer-songwriter from New York.

The chorus ensemble, arranged in an a cappella style reminiscent of The Gospellers, is exquisitely beautiful and harmonizes perfectly with his vocals as he sings of his love for her, truly resonating in the heart.

Uptown GirlBilly Joel40rank/position

Billy Joel – Uptown Girl (Official Video)

This song features a lively melody strongly influenced by 1960s doo-wop.

Billy Joel skillfully portrays a universal love story in which a working-class young man falls in love with a woman from high society.

Set to a bright, cheerful tune, the piece depicts a romance that transcends social class and was released as a single from the album An Innocent Man in September 1983.

It reached No.

1 in the UK and became a major hit, selling approximately 975,000 copies.

In 1984, it was nominated for an MTV Video Music Award and received high praise as a sophisticated pop tune.

Its upbeat rhythm and hopeful message encourage a positive outlook on love.

One LoveBob Marley41rank/position

Bob Marley – One Love

Bob Marley was a reggae musician from Jamaica, often called the God of Reggae.

“One Love” is a single released in 1984 by Bob Marley and the Wailers.

Its lyrics, sung over a relaxed rhythm, convey the message that there is a place for everyone and that even those who have committed wrongdoing deserve a chance at redemption.

Rock Wit’chaBobby Brown42rank/position

Bobby Brown – Rock Wit’cha (Official Music Video)

It starts with a telephone call.

Opening with a man-and-woman conversation and music, “Rock Wit’cha” can be summed up in one word: stylish.

This chic, R&B-flavored track is one you’ll want to play over and over.

Bobby Brown’s sweet, clear voice and outstanding vocal ability captivate us.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to listen to at night, leaning back on the sofa and taking it slow.