A classic medium-tempo ballad in Western music

Strange MagicElectric Light Orchestra

ELO – Strange Magic (Remastered Live) Electric Light Orchestra 1976

This is a song by Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), included on their 1975 album Face the Music and also released as a single.

Its Japanese title is “Fushigi na Majutsu” (“Strange Magic”).

Although frontman Jeff Lynne said he didn’t expect it to be a hit, it has since become a number frequently performed at concerts.

It showcases the defining characteristics of mid-period ELO.

Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On MeElton John

Elton John – Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me

This is a song included on Caribou, the album released in 1974 by Elton John, a giant of the British music scene.

Its Japanese title is “A Little Sun In My Eyes.” It’s an emotional ballad in which Elton excels, with an orchestral arrangement adding a touch of splendor.

It reached No.

2 on the US charts and No.

16 on the UK charts.

Change Of HeartEric Carmen

ERIC CARMEN Change Of Heart (#19 USA/1978) HQ

Eric Carmen, who achieved great success after going solo from the power pop band the Raspberries, is known for many songs that reflect the influence of classical music, thanks to his solid musical education from a young age.

This 1978 release is a calm, mid-tempo love ballad—an underrated gem that isn’t as well known as it deserves to be.

More Than WordsExtreme

Extreme – More Than Words (Official Music Video)

Included on the 1990 album Pornograffitti.

A four-piece rock band from Massachusetts formed in 1985.

This track features the gentle tones of Nuno’s acoustic guitar paired with soft, harmonized vocals; the beautiful blend is utterly captivating to listen to.

Keeping The Dream AliveFreiheit

Keeping The Dream Alive – Muenchner Freiheit – 1988

Freiheit is a German band.

Their official name is “MÜNCHENER FREIHEIT,” and they are a very popular group in Germany.

This work was released as a single from the 1988 album “FANTASY,” and reached No.

14 on the UK charts.

Effectively employing an orchestra, it presents a grand, expansive soundscape that transcends the bounds of pop and stands as a masterpiece reminiscent of classical music.

It’s such a high-quality song that it’s almost puzzling it isn’t more widely known.

Father FigureGeorge Michael

George Michael – Father Figure (Official Video)

Included on the 1987 album “Faith.” Born in 1963.

A singer-songwriter from London and a former member of Wham!.

This single, from the first album he released after disbanding Wham!, features an R&B-influenced melody that showcases his strengths and makes for a wonderful track.

What’s In A KissGilbert O’Sullivan

Gilbert O’Sullivan – What’s In A Kiss

Gilbert O’Sullivan is a British singer-songwriter known for his masterpiece ballad “Alone Again.” Perhaps because the impression of “Alone Again” is so strong, he tends to be seen as a one-hit wonder, but in fact he has created many fine works.

The Japanese title of this piece is “A Kiss on the Breeze.” Released in 1980, it’s a medium-tempo ballad for which the adjective “refreshing” is a perfect fit.