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A classic medium-tempo ballad in Western music

Medium ballads—with passionate vocals and a comfortable tempo—are a particularly popular category among Japanese listeners.

There are many classic medium ballads in Western music as well.

This time, we’ve selected some especially recommended masterpieces of medium ballads from Western music.

Great medium-tempo ballad songs in Western music (21–30)

Move In A Little Closer BabyHarmony Grass

Harmony Grass – Move In A Little Closer Baby (1969)
Move In A Little Closer BabyHarmony Grass

This is a work whose warm, gentle harmonies wrap around your heart like sunlight.

It was created by Harmony Grass, a British group active in the late 1960s.

They’re a band that represents the genre known as sunshine pop.

This piece features rich, layered choruses and an uplifting melody that feels truly delightful.

The lyrics portray the feelings of a protagonist who reaches out to someone withdrawn and lonely, staying close and welcoming them with warmth.

Released in December 1968, the song reached No.

24 on the UK chart the following year and was included on the album This Is Us.

When you’re feeling a bit down or want to embrace a kinder mood, listening to it can bring a sense of comfort, as if you were basking in a patch of sunlight.

WaterfallsPaul McCartney

Paul McCartney – Waterfalls [High Quality]
WaterfallsPaul McCartney

“Waterfalls” is a hidden gem by Paul McCartney, who has produced many masterpieces and hit songs.

It was released in 1980 and included on the album McCartney II, which came out the same year, later being issued as the album’s second single.

The album also yielded the hit song “Coming Up.” Compared to that track, “Waterfalls” may seem understated, but it features a distinctly McCartney-esque, beautifully melancholic melodic line that is outstanding.

Sweet LoveAnita Baker

Anita Baker – Sweet Love {Actual Video}
Sweet LoveAnita Baker

Anita Baker is a singer from the United States.

“Sweet Love,” released in 1986, is one of her signature works.

It can be considered one of the quintessential love ballads of the 1980s.

Her voice has warmth, and on top of that, her vocal technique and expressive power are all top-notch.

Even today, it doesn’t feel dated—a masterpiece that sings of universal love.

Ordinary WorldDuran Duran

Duran Duran – Ordinary World (Official Music Video)
Ordinary WorldDuran Duran

Included on the 1993 album “Duran Duran.” A four-piece rock band from Birmingham formed in 1978.

It’s a graceful and very pleasing number, with Simon’s vocals riding over a gently paced mid-tempo rhythm and a pop, moody melody.

Open ArmsJourney

Journey – Open Arms (Official Video – 1982)
Open ArmsJourney

Included on the 1981 album “Escape.” A five-member rock band from San Francisco formed in 1973.

The contrasting tones of the hard guitar and soft piano blend well, and the high-pitched vocals, sung over the woven melodies, fuse nicely to create a satisfying result.

Something About YouLevel 42

Level 42 is a funk/fusion rock band from the United Kingdom.

They were popular throughout the 1980s for their sophisticated sound.

“Something About You” is a track from their 1985 album World Machine.

It’s catchy and perfect for dancing.

Love Is The AnswerUtopia

Although it’s not very well known in Japan, this is truly a hidden masterpiece of a ballad.

The Japanese title is “Love Is the Answer.” Todd Rundgren is a multi-talented artist who continues to be active today, doing everything from songwriting and composing to singing, playing instruments, and producing.

This piece was released as a song by Utopia, the band he was part of.

It’s also famous for the cover hit by England Dan & John Ford Coley.

A song distinguished by its flowing, beautifully crafted melody line.