[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)

One LifeEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – One Life (Official Audio)

One LifeEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran is a British singer-songwriter who’s hugely popular in Japan as well.

I think just about every young person knows him.

When you think of Ed Sheeran, many people probably imagine “Shape of You.” He also excels at ballads and has released quite a few over the years.

Among them, the one I especially recommend is “One Life.” It’s a pop ballad where a delay-tinged beat and acoustic sound blend together beautifully.

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[2025] A roundup of recommended popular ballads sung by male Western music artists (121–130)

TROP FRESHMonsieur Nov

MONSIEUR NOV -TROP FRESH (OFFICIEL VIDEO)

TROP FRESHMonsieur Nov

Monsieur Nobu is an R&B singer from Vietnam.

Instead of working in his home country, he’s active in France, where he’s known as a talented figure in the R&B scene.

His musical style is highly sophisticated, landing somewhere between R&B and neo-soul.

His track “TROP FRESH” also blends the best of R&B and neo-soul, and the flow of the lyrics is outstanding.

If you like R&B ballads, you’ll definitely enjoy his music—be sure to check it out!

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Broken WingsMr. Mister

Mr. Mister – Broken Wings (Official Video)

Broken WingsMr. Mister

A classic pop ballad released in 1985 by Mr.

Mister.

It was inspired by The Broken Wings, a love story written in 1912 by the Lebanese poet Kahlil Gibran.

The black-and-white music video was directed by Orey Sassone.

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Ribbon In The SkyStevie Wonder

Ribbon In The Sky

Ribbon In The SkyStevie Wonder

Starting with a stylish piano, “Ribbon in the Sky” is a gentle and beautiful ballad that’s perfect for an autumn night.

Stevie Wonder’s crystal-clear voice paired with a lovely jazz-tinged sound makes it a masterpiece you’ll want to listen to over and over again.

The songs Stevie creates have such beautiful melodies, transporting listeners into the Stevie World.

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Can You Stand The RainNew Edition

New Edition – Can You Stand The Rain

Can You Stand The RainNew Edition

This work continues to shine as a classic R&B song that colored the music scene of the 1980s.

Its warm melody and emotionally rich lyrics blend beautifully, gently portraying the depth of a lovers’ bond.

The contrasting vocal charms of Johnny Gill and Ralph Tresvant are striking, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.

Released in January 1988, the track reached No.

1 on Billboard’s R&B singles chart.

Featured on New Edition’s album “Heart Break,” it has remained beloved by many fans.

Highly recommended for those who want a heartwarming ballad that’s perfect for a rainy day.

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BoyfriendsHarry Styles

Harry Styles – Boyfriends (Audio)

BoyfriendsHarry Styles

One Direction, the British boy band that garnered overwhelming support from women around the world, was hugely popular in Japan as well.

Harry Styles is a former member of One Direction and is now releasing a string of solo hit songs.

Among his works, the ballad I especially recommend is “Boyfriends.” The acoustic instrumentation and vocal arrangements rich in harmonies beautifully create a delicate, wistful atmosphere.

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Hand on HeartOlly Murs

Olly Murs – Hand on Heart

Hand on HeartOlly Murs

A song released in 2013 by British singer-songwriter Olly Murs.

He has called it “a favorite song with a melody I love.” The black-and-white music video was directed by Vaughan Arnell and was inspired by the clip for Robbie Williams’s 1997 song “Angels.”

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