A classic medium-tempo ballad in Western music

Shape Of My HeartSting

Sting – Shape of My Heart (Official Music Video)

Sting, the singer-songwriter who represents the United Kingdom.

Among his works, this may be the most beloved medium-tempo ballad in Japan.

This piece portrays the feelings of a poker player who seeks the mystery of fate rather than victory.

In the lyrics, various meanings are assigned to the suits of the cards, and in the line where he sings that hearts do not represent his own heart, you can sense the protagonist’s profound loneliness and philosophy.

This intellectual worldview is beautifully expressed by Dominic Miller’s wistful guitar riff.

Included on the 1993 album “Ten Summoner’s Tales,” the song is also widely known as the ending theme of the film “Léon: The Professional.” Be sure to check it out alongside the film’s moving finale.

If We Hold On TogetherDiana Ross

If We Hold On Together

A gentle yet powerful singing voice that resonates deep in the heart—this is a signature ballad by American singer Diana Ross.

The song celebrates universal love and bonds, declaring that with mutual trust, any hardship can be overcome.

Its poetic worldview, reminiscent of a passage from the Bible, portrays an unwavering conviction.

Released in November 1988 as the theme song for the animated film The Land Before Time, it was later included on the acclaimed album The Force Behind the Power.

In Japan, it was featured in the TV drama “Omoi de ni Kawaru Made” and famously held the No.

1 spot on the international chart for 12 consecutive weeks—a fact many of you may already know.

It’s a classic you’ll want to hear when you wish to be reminded of someone dear.

I Want To Know What Love IsForeigner

Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is (Official Music Video)

A song by the British-American rock band Foreigner, known as a leading example of stadium rock that incorporates hard rock and AOR.

Included on their fifth album, Agent Provocateur, it became one of their signature tracks, reaching No.

1 on both the U.

S.

and U.

K.

charts in 1985.

It expresses a poignant yearning to understand what true love is, overcoming the heartache and loneliness experienced in past relationships.

Lou Gramm’s soulful vocals combined with a gospel choir create a majestic harmony that brings a sacred atmosphere capable of stirring the listener’s soul.

It’s an emotional ballad whose prayer-like message resonates deeply when you’re searching for something in life.

Vision of LoveMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – Vision Of Love

Mariah Carey, the American songstress known for her wide five-and-a-half-octave range and whistle register, released her landmark debut single in May 1990, a song that went on to have a major impact on the music world.

In this track, she sings of gratitude and joy—almost like a prayer—at the moment when the ideal love she had long envisioned finally becomes reality after enduring many years of hardship.

Included on her debut album “Mariah Carey,” the song topped the U.

S.

charts for four consecutive weeks and won a Grammy the following year.

It carries an atmosphere that feels like a fusion of grand gospel and soulful R&B.

It’s the kind of anthem that gently encourages those striving toward their dreams.

In Your EyesPeter Gabriel

Peter Gabriel – In Your Eyes

From an intro infused with world music elements, this masterpiece immediately draws you into a grand realm of love.

Created by the innovative British musician Peter Gabriel, the track appears on his acclaimed 1986 album So.

It’s a universal love song that sings of a soul-deep bond—finding salvation, a future, and a place to return within a loved one’s eyes.

With the prayerful vocals of Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour, the entire piece radiates a sacred aura.

Featured in the iconic 1989 film Say Anything… during the scene where the protagonist holds up a boombox, it became known as a timeless anthem of love.

On a night when you want to feel the presence of someone special anew, why not surrender to this song’s warm yet passionate sound?

Against All Odds (Take A Look at Me Now)Phil Collins

Phil Collins – Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now) (Official Music Video)

Phil Collins, a British musician known for his work with the band Genesis and his worldwide success as a solo artist.

His 1984 song “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” is a renowned ballad written as the theme for the film Against All Odds.

The track topped the U.

S.

charts for three consecutive weeks and won a Grammy Award.

Born from the pain of his own divorce, the lyrics convey lingering feelings for someone he can no longer return to and a heartfelt plea: “Take a look at me now.” Opening with a quiet piano soliloquy and unfolding into a grand arrangement as the emotion rises, the sound surely grips the listener’s heart.

Every Breath You TakeThe Police

The Police – Every Breath You Take (Official Music Video)

The Police are a British band that rose to prominence in the late 1970s with their innovative musical style that blended rock with reggae elements.

This work is their signature song, released in May 1983.

In Japan, it’s frequently heard in commercials, so many people may recognize the melody.

At first glance, it seems like a romantic love song, but the lyrics depict a slightly unsettling side—intense obsession with and surveillance of a lover.

This imbalance between the sweet melody and stalker-like lyrics becomes a compelling charm that captivates listeners.

Featured on the classic album Synchronicity, the song spent eight consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts.

It is a masterpiece ballad that is not merely beautiful, but one that delves into the depths of human psychology.