[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 (31–40)

So SickNe-Yo

Ne-Yo – So Sick (Official Music Video)

So SickNe-Yo

So Sick, included on Ne-Yo’s debut album In My Own Words, is one of his signature songs, known for his beautiful vocals.

It sold 301,000 copies in its first week, hit No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard 200, and went on to sell over 1.

5 million copies worldwide—a mega-hit that gained global fame.

It quickly became well-known in Japan too, with many singers practicing it at karaoke at the time, and it even influenced the Japanese music scene.

It’s a truly compelling track that I highly recommend.

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I’m YoursJason Mraz

Jason Mraz – I’m Yours (Official Video) [4K Remaster]

I'm YoursJason Mraz

Jason Mraz is a musician from the U.

S.

state of Virginia.

This song reached number one in countries around the world and sold 1 million copies in the United States alone.

Thanks to this song, he was nominated for Song of the Year and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance at the 51st Grammy Awards.

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Ten Feet TallWrabel

Wrabel – Ten Feet Tall (Original Version)

Ten Feet TallWrabel

With the rather eccentric title ‘Ten Feet Tall,’ you can’t really tell what kind of song it is until you actually listen—but once you hit play, you’re swept away by its lush vocals and instrumentation.

Reading the lyrics reveals an additional literary depth that is another part of its charm.

Also, be sure to look up and enjoy the remix that Afrojack plays.

That version has a strong anthem feel and is timeless EDM.

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Grande AmoreIl Volo

Il Volo – Grande amore (2015 Videoclip)

Grande AmoreIl Volo

The legendary vocal trio The Three Tenors—Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo, and José Carreras.

Il Volo is a vocal group formed as a revival of The Three Tenors, and they’re hugely popular, touring not only their home country of Italy but all around the world.

Grande Amore is one of their signature songs, a ballad rooted in opera.

It’s a highly dramatic piece, so if you enjoy spinto-style opera, be sure to check it out!

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I Don’t Want to Miss a ThingAerosmith

Aerosmith – I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing (Official HD Video)

I Don't Want to Miss a ThingAerosmith

Speaking of ballads, isn’t “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” the definitive choice? This song was a mega-hit for Aerosmith and became incredibly popular worldwide.

Its biggest appeal has to be the vibe of the chorus, right? The tension builds gradually, and when the chorus hits, you’re wrapped in a sense of release—musically, it’s a superb piece.

Since it’s also the theme song for the movie Armageddon, even younger listeners are likely to know it.

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[2025] Best Popular Ballads Sung by Male Western Artists (41–50)

Temporary LoveBen Platt

Ben Platt – Temporary Love [Official Video]

Temporary LoveBen Platt

It’s a grand, deeply moving ballad with a powerful message by musical theater actor Ben Platt.

Needless to say, the vocals are outstanding.

As you’ll gather from the lyrics and the music video, the theme of this song is the many forms of love.

It’s a song that makes you hope what he sings about and portrays in the video will reach countless listeners around the world.

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Viva La VidaColdplay

Coldplay – Viva La Vida (Official Video)

Viva La VidaColdplay

A rhythm and melody brimming with vitality.

It’s not intense; rather, a long-forgotten passion slowly returns from within.

Like offering encouragement to our worries and doubts, Viva La Vida features a cool, composed vocal and a steady rhythm.

It leaves the listener calm and grants the gentle power of music.

It also pairs perfectly with the band name, Coldplay.

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