[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)

She Will Be LovedMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – She Will Be Loved (Official Music Video)

She Will Be LovedMaroon 5

Maroon 5 is a band from Los Angeles, United States.

They won the Best New Artist award at the 47th Grammy Awards.

This song is included on their first album, Songs About Jane.

In 2004, it was used in a Noevir commercial, which helped it become widely known in Japan.

Raise the rankinglower

You Could Be HappySnow Patrol

Snow Patrol – You Could Be Happy [HD]

You Could Be HappySnow Patrol

A song that sings about the regret and despair felt after a failed relationship.

It was recorded by the alternative rock band Snow Patrol on their fourth album, Eyes Open, released in 2006.

The album reached No.

1 on the charts in the UK, Australia, the Netherlands, and more.

Raise the rankinglower

Heart VacancyThe Wanted

The Wanted – Heart Vacancy

Heart VacancyThe Wanted

A ballad released in 2010 by the British boy band The Wanted.

It was produced by British songwriter Wayne Hector and the Danish trio Lucas Secon, Jonas Jeberg, and Cutfather.

The music video was filmed in New York.

Raise the rankinglower

[2025] A roundup of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western artists (81–90)

Ballad Of The Mighty INoel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds – Ballad Of The Mighty I (Official Video)

Ballad Of The Mighty INoel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

It’s included on former Oasis member Noel Gallagher’s second album, “Chasing Yesterday.” Johnny Marr from The Smiths plays guitar on it, delivering a fantastic solo.

Noel himself boasts that it’s “the best ballad I’ve ever written,” and it truly unfolds with a grand, expansive sense of scale.

Raise the rankinglower

Piano ManBilly Joel

Billy Joel – Piano Man (Official HD Video)

Piano ManBilly Joel

Billy Joel is a musician from New York State, USA.

In 2014, he received the Gershwin Prize, which is awarded to musicians who have made significant contributions to popular music.

This song is one of his early works and was released in 1973.

Raise the rankinglower

SacrificeElton John

Elton John – Sacrifice

SacrificeElton John

A song that sings about how important it is to be faithful in a relationship.

It’s a ballad featuring simple yet wise lyrics and a splendid melody.

Released as a single in 1989, it reached No.

1 on the charts in the UK and France.

Raise the rankinglower

Talk You Out Of ItFlorida Georgia Line

Florida Georgia Line – Talk You Out Of It

Talk You Out Of ItFlorida Georgia Line

This is a song by Florida Georgia Line, a country duo from Tennessee, USA.

It opens with a melody that has an ethnic vibe, and the chorus bursts with a sense of openness.

The arrangement makes great use of the spaces between sounds, which really highlights the vocal performance.

Wouldn’t it be perfect for a drive?

Raise the rankinglower