Lovely love song

[Western Music] Ballads that resonate with the heart: Classic love songs

DancerFukkun:)Tatsuki Fukuda
Primarily active in Tokyo, I have experience as a backup dancer for artists, a music video dancer, and a commercial dancer. I continue to work as a dancer while also engaging in article production. After discovering Michael Jackson in junior high school, I began dancing in my second year of high school. Since starting dance, in addition to the J-Pop and Japanese rock I had been listening to, I began exploring Western R&B, rap, alternative music, and other tracks commonly used for dance. In elementary school, I spent three years in a choir, and because I love singing, I often go to karaoke for fun. These days, I enjoy a wide range of music, from Japanese rock and rap to K-pop.

Western ballads have such moving melodies and vocals filled with the kind of emotion unique to singers overseas that you can’t help but get drawn in.

Their lyrics often express feelings very directly and have a sense of storytelling, which feels different from Japanese songs.

I’d like to introduce some classic ballad love songs from Western music!

If you look up the lyrics, you’ll probably find yourself thinking, “So that’s what they’re singing about,” and become even more interested—so find a favorite track and check it out!

They have a charm that’s distinct from Japanese ballads, so if you’re wondering which Western songs to listen to, I hope this helps as a reference!

[Western Music] Ballads That Resonate With the Heart: Classic Love Songs (91–100)

One on OneDaryl Hall & John Oates

Hall & Oates- One on One

One on OneDaryl Hall & John Oates

This is a comforting track featuring Daryl Hall’s soulful yet gentle vocals.

For Hall & Oates, I think Daryl’s blue-eyed soul–flavored singing is their greatest appeal.

The high quality of the songwriting goes without saying, and it still doesn’t feel dated at all.

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I’m So ProudJeff Beck, Bogert & Appice

Jeff Beck, Bogert & Appice – I’m so proud

I'm So ProudJeff Beck, Bogert & Appice

Jeff Beck covers a soul classic by Curtis Mayfield’s The Impressions.

It’s a sublime love ballad also covered by artists like Todd Rundgren.

You can clearly feel how deeply Beck loves this song.

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[Western Music] Soul-Stirring Ballads: Classic Love Songs (101–110)

GMFJohn Grant

John Grant – GMF

GMFJohn Grant

A gem of a song packed with remarkable self-affirmation and candid emotional expression.

It’s featured on the album Pale Green Ghosts, released in March 2013, and John Grant’s soul-baring cry leaves a deep impression on the listener.

While he calls himself “the greatest creature in the world,” you can sense the irony and self-deprecation woven into it.

The lyrics, which express the difficulty of finding one’s place in society and the complexity of relationships with others, resonate with many.

It’s the perfect track for those who feel lonely or are striving to find love while staying true to themselves.

Why not listen to it alone on a quiet night?

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Made to LoveJohn Legend

John Legend – Made to Love (Official Video)

Made to LoveJohn Legend

A gem of a love song that celebrates the bond of two people destined for each other.

John Legend’s refined vocals resonate deep within listeners’ hearts.

Blending elements of R&B, soul, and gospel, it expresses the depth and beauty of love.

Released in June 2013 and included on the album Love in the Future, the track features Kanye West as a producer and crafts a distinctive sound world characterized by African drums and an up-tempo beat.

Recommended for those who cherish their bond with a loved one or are searching for a destined partner.

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Party DownLittle Beaver

Little Beaver – Party Down Pt. 1

Party DownLittle Beaver

Little Beaver is a player from the Miami soul scene.

This track is marked by its rhythm box and a wistful, melancholic guitar.

It’s a mellow soul love song.

In the 1990s, it was introduced by Japanese musicians and gained renewed appreciation, but the album was hard to obtain.

Many listeners must have shed tears upon hearing the news of its reissue.

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Feel Like Makin’ LoveMarlena Shaw

Marlena Shaw – Feel Like Makin’ Love

Feel Like Makin' LoveMarlena Shaw

An elegant love song by Marlena Shaw.

When I think of Marlena Shaw, I picture a poised, straight-backed lady.

This feels like the ultimate track that embodies her aesthetic.

The backing band features a cool lineup: Chuck Rainey, Harvey Mason, and David T.

Walker.

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Just LikeMarvin Gaye

Just Like

Just LikeMarvin Gaye

Included on ‘Romantically Yours,’ which features standard numbers, this track is one of his originals.

He’s produced many great songs, but this is the best in my opinion.

Lush strings and piano paired with his silky vocals—it’s a blissful love ballad.

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