[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 (141–150)

RivedertiMario Biondi

Mario Biondi – Rivederti (Sanremo 2018)

RivedertiMario Biondi

Mario Biondi is a soul singer from Italy.

Believe it or not, he’s over two meters tall.

The voice that resonates from his towering frame is extremely deep, with one of the richest tones in the world.

His song “Rivederti” was performed at the Sanremo Music Festival, the most prestigious in the world.

It’s crafted with an incredibly sophisticated, jazz-inspired melody.

If you like jazz, be sure to check it out!

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Thojana Ya TheselePresss

Presss Thojana Ya Thesele

Thojana Ya TheselePresss

Press is an artist from the Republic of South Africa.

He’s fairly well-known locally, yet he’s a rare kind of artist who doesn’t limit his activities—he’ll even perform in tiny, intimate venues.

His biggest appeal is surely his soulful singing, woven from his richly layered voice.

His tone is very full without ever feeling overbearing, making it extremely easy to listen to.

You can feel that talent in “Thojana Ya Thesele” as well.

Highly recommended if you’re in the mood for a soulful ballad.

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Leave Right NowWill Young

Will Young – Leave Right Now

Leave Right NowWill Young

A song released as a single in 2003 by Will Young, a British singer and actor.

It was written by Eg White, a British songwriter and producer.

Eg won an Ivor Novello Award in 2004 for this song.

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Every Time I Close My EyesBabyface

Babyface – Every Time I Close My Eyes

Every Time I Close My EyesBabyface

“Every Time I Close My Eyes,” a classic by Babyface—the American artist and widely active recording producer—features a moody beat that underpins the entire track, with his sweet vocals making it an exceptionally pleasant listen.

The lineup is incredibly luxurious in a way that would be hard to replicate today, with Mariah Carey contributing backing vocals.

It’s a truly compelling track, so be sure to check it out!

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YellowColdplay

Coldplay – Yellow (Official Video)

YellowColdplay

Coldplay is a British rock band.

The vocalist, Chris Martin, married the actress Gwyneth Paltrow, and they divorced a few years later, which drew a lot of attention.

This song is one of their signature tracks and a staple at their live shows.

It was their first to reach the UK top 10.

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Is This LoveWhitesnake

Whitesnake – Is This Love (Official Music Video)

Is This LoveWhitesnake

Whitesnake is a hard rock band representing England.

Formed around David Coverdale, the former vocalist of Deep Purple, the band has released songs mainly in hard rock styles such as blues rock and glam metal.

Among their works, the ballad I especially recommend is Is This Love.

It’s a piece centered on the smooth rock ballad sound of the 1980s.

If you enjoy sophisticated, adult-tinged ballads, be sure to check it out.

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UntitledD’Angelo

D’Angelo – Untitled (How Does It Feel) (Official Music Video)

UntitledD'Angelo

D’Angelo is the legendary singer-songwriter who created the neo-soul genre.

He began his career around the same time as Brian McKnight.

Back then, R&B like Brian McKnight’s was considered the coolest sound, but D’Angelo’s arrival instantly shifted the scene’s values and dramatically elevated the overall quality of Black music.

His song “Untitled” is one of his signature tracks, crafted with a structure that strongly carries the DNA of Prince, the artist he respects most.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to hear an ultra-cool, sensual ballad!

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