[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 curated list of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western artists (111–120)

Broken StringsJames Morrison ft. Nelly Furtado

James Morrison – Broken Strings ft. Nelly Furtado

Broken StringsJames Morrison ft. Nelly Furtado

An acoustic ballad released as a single in 2008 by British musician James Morrison.

It’s a collaboration with Canadian singer-songwriter Nelly Furtado.

It reached No.

1 on the charts in Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland.

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No One Else Comes CloseJoe

Joe – No One Else Comes Close (Official Video)

No One Else Comes CloseJoe

Joe, the King of R&B.

From his debut to the present, he’s been steadfastly following the quintessential R&B path—a born-and-bred R&B singer.

While he doesn’t necessarily boast any one standout vocal trick, his rhythm and tone are incredibly pleasing, making him irresistible to R&B lovers.

One of his famous ballads is “No One Else Comes Close.” He has plenty of other great ballads, but I chose this one because it’s especially sweet.

With an unbelievably sweet melody and lyrics, it’s highly recommended for women as well.

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Shadow Of MineAlec Benjamin

Alec Benjamin – Shadow Of Mine [Official Music Video]

Shadow Of MineAlec Benjamin

American singer-songwriter Alec Benjamin, who rose to stardom with the massive hit “Let Me Down Slowly,” is known for his one-of-a-kind, translucent voice.

Among his songs, the ballad that exudes a grand, sweeping atmosphere is “Shadow Of Mine,” released in 2022.

Its beautiful yet fleeting piano melody seems to gently envelop the heart.

The lyrics, which candidly portray anxiety and inner struggles, are striking and can also be read as a message to society.

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I’m SorryAli Gatie

Ali Gatie – I’m Sorry ( Official Music Video)

I'm SorryAli Gatie

Iraqi-Canadian singer-songwriter Ali Gatie’s new song, set for release in January 2024, is an emotionally stirring ballad that will move listeners.

With tender, wistful vocals and striking guitar tones, the track sings of love, regret, and a plea for forgiveness.

Born from a collaboration with producer Rebel Beats, this three-and-a-half-minute gem masterfully fuses pop and R&B.

The especially memorable pre-chorus and chorus melodies really resonate.

Anyone who has experienced the pain of love will likely find it deeply relatable.

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the beat goes onBeady Eye

Beady Eye – ‘The Beat Goes On’

the beat goes onBeady Eye

Beady Eye is a band led by Liam Gallagher, the former lead vocalist of Oasis.

This song is included on their first album, “Different Gear, Still Speeding.” Composed by Andy Bell, it’s memorable for its repeated phrases.

It was also released as their third single.

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HeavenCalum Scott feat. Lyodra

Calum Scott feat. Lyodra – Heaven (Official Music Video)

HeavenCalum Scott feat. Lyodra

Singer Calum Scott became one of the world’s top hitmakers after appearing on the UK’s popular talent show Britain’s Got Talent.

Many stars have emerged from talent shows, but he is arguably among the most successful.

Among his works, the ballad I especially recommend is Heaven.

It’s a duet, but Calum Scott takes the lead.

If you like emotional pop ballads, be sure to check it out.

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Seul au mondeCorneille

Seul au monde

Seul au mondeCorneille

Cornell, a French R&B singer.

He may not be a top singer nationwide in France, but he’s held in very high regard by his core fans.

His song “Seul au Monde” is one of his sexiest ballads.

French R&B is said to be among the best in the world, and this track rises to that challenge with a highly sophisticated melody.

If you like R&B, definitely give it a listen!

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