I Want to Be Healed from the Heart: Recommended Western Ballads Sung by Female Vocalists

Eternal FlameThe Bangles

The Bangles – Eternal Flame (Official Video)

The lyrics are easy to understand even for people who aren’t very good at English.

Back then, I thought it was just a ballad to change the image of the idol group, but that was a completely mistaken view.

The fact that we still hear it often even now is the best proof of how well-crafted this song is.

Fast CarTracy Chapman

Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (Official Music Video)

“Fast Car,” included on American singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman’s debut album Tracy Chapman.

Released in 1988, the song’s poignant acoustic guitar melody and her deep, soulful vocals capture the listener and won’t let go.

It tells the story of a protagonist who dreams of escaping a life of poverty.

They pin their hopes for freedom on a “fast car,” but their partner falls into decline, and the dream slips further away.

The raw lyrics, where hope and despair intersect, are truly moving.

In fact, the song became a worldwide hit after her performance at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert in June 1988.

When you’re yearning to change your circumstances, listening to it may quietly give you courage through the protagonist’s journey.

Now You’re Not HereSwing Out Sister

Swing Out Sister – Now You’re Not Here

Although it is a song that gives voice to the sorrow of a woman singing, “You are no longer here,” thanks to its beautiful melody and vocals it feels less tragic and more like looking back on cherished memories.

If you listen to it when you’re feeling a little down, it will surely soothe you—no doubt about it.

Without MeHalsey

Halsey – Without Me

“Without Me,” released on October 4, 2018, by Halsey, a singer-songwriter from New Jersey.

She broke up with rapper and model G-Eazy, whom she had been dating, in early July 2018, and the song is said to be a heartbreak track infused with those feelings.

Her sweet yet husky vocals combined with the sorrow-tinged lyrics make it a deeply moving song.

Where Do Broken Hearts GoWhitney Houston

Where Do Broken Hearts Go

You can’t talk about ballads by Western female artists without mentioning those sung by Whitney Houston! I’ve listened to them over and over and been deeply moved.

Her voice, expressive power, and vocal ability—no one surpasses her in any of these, I would say.

This song is a heartbreak ballad that Whitney sang and turned into a massive hit.

I say “heartbreak” in a single word, but it’s a poignant piece packed with many meanings: the sorrow of the two—him and her—the sadness of every heart in this world.

I’d love to hear her voice once more.

WolvesSelena Gomez, Marshmello

Selena Gomez, Marshmello – Wolves

“Wolves,” a collaboration between the world-renowned singer Selena Gomez and DJ Marshmello.

When people think of Selena Gomez, many probably imagine stylish melodies.

This song pleasantly defies that image with a powerful melody.

If you want to see a new side of Selena Gomez, be sure to check it out! It’s also recommended for those looking for an easy-to-listen ballad.

LoveLana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey – Love

There’s a genre of music with elements like a distinctive worldview, slow beats, and clean guitars—so melancholic it’s often called “sadcore.” This song is by Lana Del Rey, an artist who openly identifies as a sadcore musician.

True to that label, this track blends darkness and beauty in a way that fully lives up to the name.

While the genre isn’t yet familiar to many in Japan, why not use this song as a starting point to dive into the unique allure of sadcore?