A collection of popular Western rock ballads: a roundup of moving, tear-jerking masterpieces.

A Man I’ll Never BeBoston

Boston – A Man I’ll Never Be (Official Video)

A six-piece rock band that quickly racked up million sellers from their debut and became emblematic of the so-called stadium rock category, Boston released this as the fourth single of their career.

Also included on their second album, Don’t Look Back, it’s a ballad with a beautiful melody highlighted by a piano that feels both spacious and crystalline.

The contrast between the wistful harmonies, the melody, and the guitar phrases that embrace them is truly a gem.

The emotional guitar solo and the organ’s sound also resonate deeply—an enduring classic rock ballad that never loses its luster.

Never Say GoodbyeBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Never Say Goodbye (Official Music Video)

This is the tenth single by Bon Jovi, a five-piece hard rock band that represents America and enjoys immense popularity in Japan.

The song is also included on their third album, Slippery When Wet, which cemented their global success.

Its simple yet memorable introductory guitar riff is a real pleasure to hear.

Jon Bon Jovi’s emotional vocals capture the quintessential rock singer’s spirit and move listeners no matter the era.

It’s a classic rock number that truly embodies the rock ballad.

OneU2

U2 – One (Official Music Video)

This is the 26th single by U2, the four-piece rock band from Ireland known for continuing without any lineup changes or breakups since their debut, and for holding the astonishing record of 22 Grammy wins.

It was released as a single from their seventh album, Achtung Baby—which won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group—and has often been used at weddings due to listeners’ interpretation of the song as meaning “let’s live as one,” the reverse of its original intent.

The dark atmosphere highlighted by acoustic guitar tones evokes U2’s characteristically folk-influenced approach.

It’s a U2-style ballad that stands apart from many other rock ballads in the world.

Black Hole SunSoundgarden

Soundgarden – Black Hole Sun

A song by Soundgarden, a four-piece rock band that pioneered alternative metal and thrived during the grunge boom of the 1990s.

Featured on their major-label third album, Superunknown, this track won the Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance.

Its distinctive sound and wistful vocals evoke a sense of nostalgia, and it stands as a lyrical number that overturns the conventional image of a rock ballad.

Leader of the BandDan Fogelberg

Dan Fogelberg – Leader of the Band (from Live: Greetings from the West)

Singer-songwriter Dan Fogelberg captivated many fans with his lyrical lyrics and beautiful melodies.

This work, dedicated to his father, is a heartwarming ballad that sings of gratitude and respect for the legacy of music.

Through its gentle yet deeply moving melody, one can feel the pride and profound love for the spirit he inherited from his father, who was a bandleader.

Included on the classic 1981 album The Innocent Age, the song went on to reach No.

1 on the U.

S.

AC chart the following year.

It’s a number you’ll want to listen to closely on a quiet night when you feel like reflecting on your roots.

Move In A Little Closer BabyHarmony Grass

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

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.

I’m With YouAvril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne – I’m With You (Official Video)

This is the third single by Canadian singer-songwriter Avril Lavigne, who made a striking debut when the album she released at 17 was certified platinum six times.

Taken from her first album, Let Go, the track showcases expressive power and a fresh, youthful voice that’s hard to believe comes from a teenager.

Its layered strings and acoustic guitar create a rich ensemble, while the wistful melody evokes the spirit of a modern rock ballad.

It’s an emotional number that highlights her talent throughout the album.