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

Rock ballads sung by rock bands and artists are often hit songs or beloved classics performed as the highlight of live shows.

While this style of song has become less common in recent years, the timeless appeal of classic rock ballads that move listeners to their core never fades with time.

In this article, we’ll showcase a selection of exquisite rock ballads by Western rock and hard rock bands and rock artists—all in one place!

They’re full of iconic tracks that are easy to enjoy even for beginners to Western music, making this a great starting point for your musical journey.

Popular Western rock ballads: A collection of moving, tear-jerking classics (21–30)

Home Sweet HomeMötley Crüe

Mötley Crüe – Home Sweet Home (Official Music Video)
Home Sweet HomeMötley Crüe

Motley Crüe, the rock band that has led the stadium rock genre with their flashy visuals and performances.

Their 1985 release Home Sweet Home is a power ballad that reflects on their hometown.

The song opens with the piano played by the band’s drummer, Tommy Lee, and then Vince Neil’s vocals gently come in over it.

The rest of the band joins, creating a track where you can enjoy a beautiful melody and a powerful band sound characteristic of a power ballad.

Mama, I’m Coming HomeOzzy Osbourne

OZZY OSBOURNE – “Mama, I’m Coming Home” (Official Video)
Mama, I'm Coming HomeOzzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne is an iconic heavy metal band led by vocalist Ozzy Osbourne.

While many of their songs are intense, “Mama, I’m Coming Home” is a deeply sweet and bittersweet power ballad.

The nostalgic atmosphere created by the beautiful acoustic guitar tones blended with Ozzy Osbourne’s richly textured voice is irresistible.

Also pay attention to the powerful, intensifying band sound as the song builds toward the end!

Popular Western rock ballads. A collection of moving, tear-jerking masterpieces (31–40)

I Hate Everything About YouThree Days Grace

Three Days Grace – I Hate Everything About You (Official Video)
I Hate Everything About YouThree Days Grace

Hailing from Ontario, Canada, Three Days Grace is a band that has captivated listeners since their formation in 1997 with a wide-ranging sound that spans from alternative rock to nu metal.

Since their major-label debut in 2003, their songs—laying bare anger and anguish—have resonated with audiences worldwide, earning numerous No.

1 spots on the Billboard charts.

Their prowess has been widely recognized, including winning a rock category award at the 2006 Billboard Music Awards.

In 2024, original member Adam Gontier returned, and the band embarked on a new challenge with a twin-vocal setup alongside Matt Walst.

Their music, which channels inner turmoil and conflict through a powerful sound, is perfect for moments when you want to release pent-up emotions.

I Want To Know What Love IsForeigner

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

“I Want To Know What Love Is” is a quintessential power ballad released by the rock band Foreigner in 1984.

The song’s appeal lies in its richly layered harmonies, and the addition of keyboards creates an even more expansive, weighty sound.

Rather than driving hard with distorted guitars, it stays focused on showcasing the vocals, making it a uniquely crafted track that’s well worth a listen.

AlwaysBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Always (Official Music Video)
AlwaysBon Jovi

Bon Jovi is a rock band with catchy melodies and an easy-to-listen-to band sound, making them a great recommendation even for newcomers to Western rock.

Released in 1994, “Always” is a standout in their career and a power ballad that’s extremely popular among fans.

The absolute must-hear highlight is Jon Bon Jovi’s cool, slightly husky vocal tone! The chorus, where he sustains near-shout notes in long tones, is absolutely breathtaking.

Bad GirlfriendTheory Of A Deadman

Theory of a Deadman – Bad Girlfriend [OFFICIAL VIDEO]
Bad GirlfriendTheory Of A Deadman

The song released in May 2008 by the Canadian hard rock band Theory of a Deadman portrays a relationship with a free-spirited woman.

Issued as a single from the album Scars & Souvenirs, it uses humor to convey the complex emotions of a man being tossed around by his irresistibly charming partner.

Written based on real experiences of lead vocalist Tyler Connolly and his then-wife, Canadian actress Christine Danielle, the track blends energetic, catchy sounds with candid lyrics.

It achieved commercial success, including reaching No.

1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart.

It’s a recommended listen for those who want to savor both the sweet and bitter sides of love.

AngelAerosmith

Aerosmith – Angel (Official Music Video)
AngelAerosmith

“Angel,” with its emotionally charged guitar solo in the intro, leaves a strong impression.

This song is a very famous ballad by the American rock legends Aerosmith, included on their 1987 album “Permanent Vacation.” The transition from Joey Kramer’s pre-chorus drum hits into Steven Tyler’s powerful vocals is a textbook example of a power ballad’s beautiful flow—and it’s truly moving!