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

See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa1rank/position

Wiz Khalifa – See You Again ft. Charlie Puth [Official Video] Furious 7 Soundtrack

Wiz Khalifa, an American rapper and singer.

His song See You Again ft.

Charlie Puth—featuring Charlie Puth, who’s known for hits like We Don’t Talk Anymore (featuring Selena Gomez)—is a supreme ballad that really stirs the heart.

The lyrics are wonderful too; the intro line, “It’s been a long day without you, my friend… and I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again,” is so heartrending it might just bring you to tears!

Open ArmsJourney2rank/position

Journey – Open Arms (Official Video – 1982)

Journey, the legendary band that defined an era in the ’80s.

They’ve produced many timeless songs, but among them, “Open Arms” stands out as a bittersweet yet heartwarming ballad that has earned widespread acclaim.

Steve Perry’s crystalline vocals and the song’s warm melody have touched countless listeners, winning enduring love not only in the United States but also in Japan.

Since its 1982 release, it has garnered glowing praise, even taking the top spot on VH1’s “25 Greatest Power Ballads,” a testament to its undeniable quality.

If you’re looking to dive into rock ballads, be sure to give it a listen.

Versace on the FloorBruno Mars3rank/position

Bruno Mars – Versace on the Floor (Official Music Video)

The shimmering, sparkling tones of the synthesizer paint a world for two people in love.

Bruno Mars’s sweet yet bittersweet vocals create a romantic atmosphere.

This work beautifully fuses a ’90s slow jam vibe with ’80s sounds.

Included on the 2016 album “24K Magic,” it was released as a single the following year.

It received high praise, including a Grammy Award.

A song you’ll want to play on a special night with someone important.

Recommended for those who want to spend an elegant, refined time.

Viva La VidaColdplay4rank/position

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)

This is a song by the British rock band Coldplay, whose grand strings portray the sorrow of a king who has lost his power, striking straight at the heart.

Released in May 2008 from the album “Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends,” many will remember it for winning Song of the Year at the 51st Grammy Awards.

You may also have heard it in Apple’s iPod commercials.

Among fans, it enjoys overwhelming popularity as “majestic yet bittersweet,” and “like an anthem for life.” The protagonist’s emptiness—“I once ruled the world, and now I sleep alone”—echoes the hollow feeling that can follow great success.

Reflecting on the fragility of life revealed only after reaching the top makes you want to cherish the happiness you have now.

When I Was Your ManBruno Mars5rank/position

Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man (Official Music Video)

A poignant piano ballad that sings of heartbreak and regret.

Written from the perspective of a man who has lost his lover by American artist Bruno Mars, the song captures the complex emotions of regretting past mistakes while still wishing happiness for the other person.

Released in January 2013, it appears on the album “Unorthodox Jukebox” and became a worldwide hit, reaching No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard charts.

With its simple piano accompaniment and powerful vocals, it’s recommended for those seeking to heal the pain of a broken heart or to reaffirm their feelings for someone special.

Purple RainPrince6rank/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.

HonestyBilly Joel7rank/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.