I Want to Be Healed from the Heart: Recommended Western Ballads Sung by Female Vocalists
Ballads are known for having many melodies and lyrics that really hit you in the heart.
Suddenly, but do you know the clear definition of a ballad?
In fact, the definition of a ballad is quite ambiguous: as long as it’s a “story-like song,” it can be considered a ballad regardless of the melody.
So this time, we’ve picked out some classic ballad masterpieces.
Unlike in Japan, Western ballads feature a wide variety of melodies, so be sure to check them out.
The first half features famous classics, but the second half includes lesser-known yet incredibly tasteful tracks.
If you’re well-versed in Western music, don’t miss ranks 11–20!
I Want to Be Healed from the Heart: Recommended Western Ballads Sung by Female Singers (1–10)
HelloAdele
Adele, the singer-songwriter from the UK who has achieved international popularity, is known for her deeply moving lyrics and powerful vocals.
Her song “Hello” is one of her most famous ballads, and it won the Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 2015, the year it was released.
The lyrics depict a woman who calls an ex-partner to apologize for her mistakes, only to face the heartbreaking reality that she can’t get through to him.
That PartLauren Spencer Smith
Characterized by its moving melody and lyrics, “That Part” is an emotionally rich, mid-tempo ballad.
Lauren Spencer Smith’s refined voice brings out the song’s deep emotional layers.
Every word of the lyrics resonates, conveying a warmth that makes you want to listen during quiet moments.
Overall, it’s a wonderful track that enriches the listener’s emotions, and I feel it has the potential to become a new standard among ballads.
Rolling in the DeepAdele
Adele is a British singer who has won the Grammy Awards 15 times.
Among her songs, this is one of the most popular.
It’s a breakup song that portrays a very independent, cool woman who seems to resent her ex, and Adele’s husky voice matches the tone perfectly, making it a very stylish track.
It’s a great pick when you want to feel a bit cool.
Hold My HandLady Gaga
Even if you don’t know much Western pop music, you’ve probably at least heard the name Lady Gaga, aka “Gaga-sama.” While her flamboyant style and outspoken remarks often make headlines, her talent as a musician is the real deal, and you can appreciate her brilliance as a singer even more when you listen to her ballads.
Her song “Hold My Hand,” released in May 2022, is a sweeping ballad built on a solid triple-time rhythm, with a dramatic arrangement and Gaga’s beautiful voice delivering straightforward love—together making it a moving masterpiece.
Chosen as the theme song for the blockbuster film Top Gun: Maverick, its music video featuring iconic scenes from the movie is truly emotional as well.
Personally, I’d also like to draw attention to the blazing guitar solo in the latter half.
You don’t see this kind of classic, straight-down-the-middle rock ballad much these days, and I feel its power to resonate even with people who don’t usually listen to Western pop comes from the accessible lyrics and Gaga’s vocals.
RoyalsLorde
With its moving melody and profound lyrics, this track showcases Lorde’s remarkable talent.
It skillfully conveys a critical perspective on mainstream music culture that glorifies luxurious lifestyles, while expressing empathy for ordinary life.
Released in March 2013 and included on her debut album Pure Heroine, it achieved global success, making her the first solo artist from New Zealand to reach No.
1 in the United States.
Questioning materialism while affirming an authentic way of living, it is a striking stance that resonates with many people in modern society.
Give it a listen when you want to soothe your heart.
My Heart Will Go OnCéline Dion
When it comes to Western ballads, many people probably think of this song: My Heart Will Go On.
Used as the main theme for the worldwide hit film Titanic, it was composed by the renowned film composer James Horner.
Its beautiful, ocean-evoking melody and Celine Dion’s soaring vocals conjure vivid images of scenes from the movie.
Love On TopBeyoncé
An R&B disco song that reinterprets 1980s music in a modern way is brought to life by Beyoncé’s powerful vocals.
With confident lyrics, it portrays a happy relationship with a loved one.
The track was included on the 2011 album “4” and won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B Performance in 2013.
You’ll be moved by Beyoncé’s compelling expression of personal growth, self-love, and love for others.
It’s a perfect song for when you want to feel positive or reaffirm your feelings for someone special.