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!
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- For lovers of husky voices: Female singers in Western music
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- Songs That Make You Cry: Heart-Wrenching Western Music—from Timeless Classics to the Newest Hits
- Heartbreaking breakup songs by female Western artists—tear-jerking breakup tracks. World classics and recommended popular songs.
Healing From the Heart: Recommended Western Ballads Sung by Female Vocalists (91–100)
The First Time Ever I Saw Your FaceRoberta Flack
Alongside Donny Hathaway, Roberta Flack was a female vocalist who helped define 1970s neo-soul.
She’s an artist who has left us with many classics, such as “Killing Me Softly” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love.” As a veteran artist, she has released a variety of ballads, and my recommendation this time is “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.” Its vibe is similar to Diana Krall’s, so it’s also a great pick for jazz fans.
Kill BillSZA
Set to a smooth, melodic beat, this track lays bare the pain of heartbreak and a thirst for revenge.
SZA’s translucent vocals beautifully capture the bittersweet emotions.
Released in December 2022, it’s included on the album SOS.
The lyrics, inspired by the film Kill Bill, leave a strong impression as they candidly detail complicated feelings toward an ex.
It’s a recommended listen when you want to heal from a breakup or face your emotions.
Let yourself sink into SZA’s delicate voice, and you’ll likely feel your heart grow lighter.
I SurrenderCéline Dion
This is a ballad sung by Canadian diva Celine Dion that expresses a resolve to give everything for love.
With its grand melody and powerful vocals, it deeply moves listeners.
It’s included on the album “A New Day Has Come,” released in March 2002, and has been showcased as one of the highlights of her Las Vegas performances.
It’s the perfect song for those who believe in the power of love—something anyone with experience in romance can relate to.
Make Me (Cry) ft. LabrinthNoah Cyrus
This is a track released by Noah Cyrus—born in 2000 and a hugely popular American actress—featuring singer-songwriter Labrinth.
It’s notable for its warm, enveloping vibe with a happy aura.
The flow in the latter half is a highlight, revealing the depth of the piece.
As a side note, Noah Cyrus has a voice that’s said to be similar to the actress who voiced Ponyo in the American version of the Studio Ghibli film Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.
Lover’s RockSade
For some reason, people often think Sade is a female solo singer, but Sade is actually a British band.
Speaking of signature ballads by Sade, there’s “Lovers Rock.” It’s packed with emotions every woman experiences, like love and anxiety.
That breezy, light voice—like a gentle wind—really grips a tired heart, doesn’t it?
Don’t Wanna Lose YouGloria Estefan
Gloria Estefan is a singer-songwriter born in Cuba and raised in the United States.
She’s also a popular artist in Japan.
She’s very fond of Japan and even chose Atami Onsen for her honeymoon.
Her musical style, in a good way, doesn’t have a stereotypically American feel.
Perhaps because of her Cuban roots, she has released many Latin-style songs.
“Don’t Wanna Lose You” is a ballad that showcases her charms.
To ZionLauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill is a genuine US artist with fans around the world.
American music is rarely recognized in Europe, but she alone is acknowledged as a top-tier artist in every country.
Her song “To Zion” is a work that portrays her resolve to live as a mother.
In fact, when she became pregnant, her label once advised her to terminate the pregnancy and continue her career as a singer.
Angered by the label’s stance, she decided to choose both—her career and motherhood—and out of that decision came the song “To Zion.” By the way, Zion is her son’s name.