[Latest Hits & Hall of Fame Classics] Recommended Popular Western Ballads

SheElvis Costello

Elvis Costello ‘She’

The Japanese title is “Wasuraji no Omokage” (Unforgettable Shadow).

While it’s often associated with Elvis Costello as a ballad, the song was originally released in 1974 by French singer-songwriter Charles Aznavour.

In 1999, Costello covered it, and it became a revival hit as the theme song for the film Notting Hill.

The video includes some scenes from the movie.

AlwaysAtlantic Starr

Always

Released in 1987 by the American R&B group Atlantic Starr, this track is a single from the album All in the Name of Love and can be considered one of the quintessential duet ballads.

If We Hold On TogetherDiana Ross

IF WE HOLD ON TOGETHER / Diana Ross

This is a song by the diva Diana Ross, known for having numerous hit songs, released in 1990.

Its lyrics, which encourage you when you’re feeling down or about to lose your way, match perfectly with her remarkable vocal performance, and it became a huge hit in Japan as well.

Run To YouWhitney Houston

Whitney Houston – Run To You (Official HD Video)

This is a track from the soundtrack of the 1992 American film The Bodyguard.

Whitney Houston appeared in the film and brilliantly portrayed Rachel, a singer with phenomenal vocal talent who is also arrogant.

The song expresses the desire to run to the one you love, and it’s a ballad you’ll want to listen to again and again.

Let’s Hurt TonightOneRepublic

OneRepublic – Let’s Hurt Tonight

When I come home exhausted and listen to this song, it feels like it embodies the cry of my heart, and the tears flow naturally.

The lyrics in particular give me the strength to get through lonely, painful nights.

Also, the singer is cool.

If you want to dive deeper, be sure to read the Japanese-to-English translation of the lyrics.

Girls Like YouTone Stith

Tone Stith – Girls Like You (Visualizer)

A gem of a love song that paints a soulful cry where Tone Stith’s emotive vocals and modern production from the U.

S.

blend beautifully.

With delicate yet powerful singing, he channels the anguish of a love betrayed and anger at deception.

Included on the EP “P.

O.

V,” released in September 2023, the track reached No.

6 on Billboard’s R&B chart.

Having started drums at age three and later mastering piano and guitar, his musical sensibilities fuse classic R&B elements with contemporary beats.

His talent is well established—he was nominated for Best New Artist at the 2021 Soul Train Music Awards.

It’s the perfect track for healing the pain of heartbreak or releasing the emotions buried deep within.

Take My Breath AwayBerlin

Berlin – Take My Breath Away (Official Video – Top Gun)

It’s a song released in 1986 by the California band Berlin.

It was featured in the Tom Cruise–starring film Top Gun and became a massive hit.

Its Japanese title is “Love Is Like a Breath,” and in Japan it was used in a Honda commercial.