[2025] A roundup of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western artists

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

Stirring melodies and sounds that move the heart, messages conveyed through emotional vocals—the forms vary, but ballads have always been loved in every era.

Even those who usually listen to intense rock or dance tracks may sometimes feel like lending an ear to a ballad.

In this article, we’ll introduce must-hear Western ballads—specifically, classic ballads sung by male vocalists!

From grand, string-laden numbers to fine folky tunes and catchy pop ballads, the first half highlights recent hits, while the latter half features timeless classics.

If you’re ready to cry your heart out to music, be sure to check these out.

[2025] A roundup of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western artists (71–80)

EmbersJames Arthur

James Arthur – Embers (Official Video)

EmbersJames Arthur

James Arthur, who continues to captivate the world as one of the UK’s leading artists, released a soul-stirring, lyrical love ballad on Valentine’s Day in February 2025.

This work, which gives voice to the feelings that smolder on in one’s heart even after a breakup, perfectly blends his powerful yet delicate vocals with a beautiful piano melody and a sweeping string arrangement.

The structure is striking as well, beginning with a quiet intro and gradually building into a dynamic development that, together with his soulful singing, moves the listener’s emotions.

It’s a song that stands beside anyone who has experienced heartbreak or separation, offering both empathy and healing.

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ImpossibleJames Arthur

james arthur – impossible official video HD

ImpossibleJames Arthur

An international hit song released by James Arthur, who is also known as the winner of the ninth series of the TV show X Factor.

In the first two days after its release, it was downloaded more than 187,000 times.

The proceeds from this song are donated to the children’s charity Together.

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Purple RainPrince

Prince – Purple Rain (Official Video)

Purple RainPrince

Prince, the legendary musician who sadly passed away in 2016.

His musicality was remarkably diverse, drawing influence from a wide range of genres—not only rock, but also R&B, funk, and soul.

A masterpiece that encapsulates his eclectic style is Purple Rain.

Created as part of the soundtrack for his own film, Prince: Purple Rain, the song received immense acclaim worldwide.

Its brilliance is said to have influenced many artists; for example, D’Angelo’s iconic neo-soul track Untitled is structured in a way that seems to pay homage to Purple Rain.

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Against All OddsPhil Collins

Phil Collins – Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now) (Official Music Video)

Against All OddsPhil Collins

Phil Collins is a British musician.

This song was released in 1982 and became his biggest hit.

It reached No.

2 on the UK chart and No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

At the Grammy Awards, it won in the Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male category.

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Me and My Broken HeartRixton

Rixton – Me and My Broken Heart

Me and My Broken HeartRixton

A song released as a single by Rixton in 2014.

It sings about a broken heart and despair over love.

The music video, filmed in a boxing ring in Los Angeles, was directed by Cameron Duddy, who has also worked on projects for Bruno Mars and OneRepublic.

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I’M NOT IN LOVE10cc

10cc – I’m Not In Love

I'M NOT IN LOVE10cc

Keyboards or piano, guitar, and vocals.

Its dreamy melody makes it a perfect song for the autumn-to-winter season.

The harmony between the lead and backing vocals is truly beautiful, and the instruments like the keyboard provide wonderful support.

The gentle “I’M NOT IN LOVE,” which feels like being wrapped in a soft aurora, will warmly resonate even with first-time listeners.

Perfect for when you want to relax.

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BeautifulBazzi feat. Camila Cabello

Bazzi feat. Camila Cabello – Beautiful [Official Music Video]

BeautifulBazzi feat. Camila Cabello

This is a very sweet and romantic song woven with distinctly American values.

Sung with Bazzio’s sweet vocals, the lyrics are a seriously blush-worthy love song.

And, as always, Camila Cabello’s voice is one of a kind, offering a fresh musical experience.

Their duet is a beautiful track where their voices intertwine and play off each other brilliantly.

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