A Collection of Heart-Touching Western Ballads — From Classics to the Newest Hits

Fine On The OutsidePriscilla Ahn

[Japan Tour Confirmed] Fine On The Outside / Priscilla Ahn — Theme song of Studio Ghibli’s film “When Marnie Was There”

The American singer-songwriter Priscilla Ahn’s song, created in 2005, drew attention when it was chosen as the theme song for Studio Ghibli’s film “When Marnie Was There.” The lyrics, which strikingly contrast inner loneliness with an outward show of strength, delicately portray the feelings of her girlhood, when she had few friends and carried a sense of solitude.

Released as a single in July 2014, the song resonated with many viewers as it played over the film’s ending.

The track is characterized by Ahn’s clear, transparent vocals and simple acoustic guitar accompaniment, making it a recommended listen for anyone who has experienced loneliness or wants to spend some quiet time.

See You Again ft. Charlie PuthWiz Khalifa

Wiz Khalifa – See You Again ft. Charlie Puth [Official Video] Furious 7 Soundtrack

Wiz Khalifa, an American rapper and singer.

His song See You Again ft.

Charlie Puth—featuring Charlie Puth, who’s known for hits like We Don’t Talk Anymore (featuring Selena Gomez)—is a supreme ballad that really stirs the heart.

The lyrics are wonderful too; the intro line, “It’s been a long day without you, my friend… and I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again,” is so heartrending it might just bring you to tears!

PerfectEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Perfect (Official Music Video)

This gem of a ballad, which sings of true love, was created by British artist Ed Sheeran, inspired by his relationship with his wife, Cherry Seaborn.

It delicately portrays everyday moments between lovers—like walking barefoot on the grass—and the unconditional affection that makes even a partner’s wind-tousled hair look beautiful.

Included on the March 2017 album ÷ and released as a single that September, the song also drew attention for its duet version with Beyoncé.

It’s a perfect choice for couples celebrating weddings or special anniversaries, and is recommended for anyone who wants to reaffirm their honest feelings for the one they love.

CarefulSYML

SYML – “Careful” [Official Visual Video]

A deeply resonant song that truly speaks to the heart.

Released in January 2025 by the American singer-songwriter SYML, this track showcases his delicate sensibilities.

Set to a quiet melody, it conveys the desire to protect a loved one while grappling with the tendency to be overprotective—an emotional tension that strikes a chord with listeners.

SYML released his debut album, “SYML,” in 2019 and has continued to put out numerous works since.

This song is included on his third album, “Nobody Lives Here.” It’s recommended for anyone struggling with a close relationship or wanting to reflect on the nature of love.

Open ArmsJourney

Journey – Open Arms (Official Video – 1982)

Journey, the American band that pioneered stadium rock.

Their appeal lies in irresistibly catchy vocal melodies and Steve Perry’s powerhouse vocals that soar into the high register.

Their 1982 release “Open Arms” is no exception—its chorus features Perry’s ringing, sustained high notes, and the beautiful melody is addictive.

The chorus lyric, “So now I come to you with open arms,” brims with a tender willingness to embrace everything about the other person—it gives me chills!

Thank God I DoLauren Daigle

Lauren Daigle – Thank God I Do (Official Music Video)

The heartwarming ballad released in March 2023 by American artist Lauren Daigle is a song that stays close to those struggling with loneliness and anxiety.

Marked by gentle piano tones and evocative strings, the piece centers on gratitude and trust in God, singing of the strength to overcome hardship.

It has resonated with many listeners, earning Gold certification and reaching No.

1 on Billboard’s Christian Songs chart.

When your heart feels weary, why not listen quietly? You’ll surely find something that speaks to your soul.

HelloAdele

Adele – Hello (Official Music Video)

The phrase in the chorus, “Hello, from the other side, I must’ve called a thousand times,” conveys the pain of a woman trying somehow to apologize for her shortcomings, making “Hello” a moving ballad.

Released by Adele in 2015, the song achieved major commercial success, hitting number one in most of the countries where it charted, including her home country of the UK.

It has high name recognition in Japan as well, having been featured on TV programs, so even people who don’t usually listen to Western music might know it!