[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 (81–90)

PerfectEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Perfect (Official Music Video)

PerfectEd Sheeran

A gem of a love song whose warm, melody line brimming with deep affection and blessings resonates in the heart.

Inspired by Ed Sheeran’s real-life relationship with his wife, the feelings he weaves are filled with hope for a happy future with the one you love.

The sweeping melody that unfolds in the chorus and the gentle tones of the acoustic guitar create a remarkable harmony.

Released from the album ÷ in March 2017, it later spawned a duet version with Beyoncé and a collaboration with Andrea Bocelli.

It became a massive hit, topping charts around the world.

Perfect for a wedding recessional, this song helps create a joyful moment where the bride and groom and their guests can share in the emotion together.

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No Matter WhatBoyzone

Boyzone – No Matter What

No Matter WhatBoyzone

Originally written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Jim Steinman for the 1996 musical “Whistle Down the Wind.” It was covered by the Irish boy band Boyzone and became the biggest hit single of 1998 in the UK.

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Your Peace Ft. Lil BabyJacquees

Jacquees – Your Peace Ft. Lil Baby

Your Peace Ft. Lil BabyJacquees

This is a collaborative track between singer Jacquees, who calls himself the “next-generation R&B king,” and Lil Baby, an artist whose talent even Drake has acknowledged.

The dark, night-time vibe of the sound is striking and matches the poignant vocals.

While the song has a calm feel, the clearly emphasized rhythm keeps it engaging all the way to the end.

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When u CryJesse Campbell

Jesse Campbell – When u Cry ( Live )

When u CryJesse Campbell

Though not a mainstream star, Jesse Campbell enjoys strong support from R&B fans.

With roots in gospel, he possesses exceptional vocal ability.

Thanks to that talent, he advanced to the quarterfinals on the popular music show The Voice.

Among his ballads, the one I especially recommend is When u Cry.

It delivers an unmistakably “this is Black music!!!” feel, with a deeply soulful melody.

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Beneath Your BeautifulLabrinth ft. Emeli Sandé

Labrinth – Beneath Your Beautiful (Official Video) ft. Emeli Sandé

Beneath Your BeautifulLabrinth ft. Emeli Sandé

A romantic ballad released as a single in 2012 by British musician Labrinth.

It features lyrical vocals by singer Emeli Sandé.

The music video was directed by Sophie Muller.

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The Giving TreePLAIN WHITE T’S

Plain White T’s – The Giving Tree (Official Video)

The Giving TreePLAIN WHITE T'S

An acoustic ballad written by guitarist Tim Lopez.

It was inspired by the children’s book of the same name by Shel Silverstein.

The song is included on the third EP by the American pop-punk band Plain White T’s, “Should’ve Gone to Bed,” released in 2013.

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[2025] Recommended Popular Ballads Sung by Male Western Artists (91–100)

SmileMorgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen – Smile (Official Music Video)

SmileMorgan Wallen

The country singer from the United States, Morgan Wallen, surprise-released a song on December 31, 2024—a moving ballad that delicately portrays the end of a romance.

Through a fleeting smile captured in a photograph, it contrasts past happiness with present distance, conveying the weight of a love that’s been lost.

Written with self-reflection and a mature perspective, the lyrics carry a depth that goes beyond a typical breakup song.

Created in collaboration with Ernest, the track also drew attention for its music video directed by Justin Clough.

It’s a recommended listen for anyone seeking to soothe the pain of heartbreak or to face memories from the past.

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