Ballad songs that were hits in the 2000s
Here are some popular ballad songs from the 2000s.
We’ve gathered tracks that will feel nostalgic to those who spent their youth in that era, as well as songs that remain karaoke staples even today.
The themes vary—love, family, life—but every song is a moving piece that touches the heart.
If you’re in the mood for ballads, looking for beloved classics, or curious about what was trending back then, be sure to give these a listen!
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Ballad Songs That Hit in the 2000s (21–30)
Close your eyesHirai Ken
Released in 2004, this is one of Ken Hirai’s signature songs.
It was also chosen as the theme song for a blockbuster film, making for a grand love ballad that perfectly matches the movie.
With its soaring vocals and lyrics and melody that evoke the poignancy of the film’s ending, it stands as a defining ballad of the 2000s.
UNSPEAKABLEEvery Little Thing
Every Little Thing’s work vividly portrays an indescribably complex state of mind through a striking contrast between stillness and intensity.
It opens the concept single “UNTITLED 4 ballads,” released in December 2002, and is a renowned ballad that reached No.
1 on the Oricon weekly chart.
The song was also included on the 2003 album “Many Pieces” and became widely familiar as the theme for Canon’s PIXUS commercial.
From the air of calm in the intro to the sudden release of emotion in the chorus, the progression is sure to move anyone who listens.
Kaori Mochida’s carefully woven words and vocals resonate with the frustration of wanting to express yourself but being unable to.
It’s a song that gently gives you a push when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone important.
Ballad songs that were hits in the 2000s (31–40)
On the hill where the moon is visible tonightB’z
Released in 2000, the song was also used as a TV drama theme.
It’s one of B’z’s popular tracks, and among their singles it has a relatively uncommon, grand ballad style.
Rather than a straightforward love song, it portrays a mature romance in a way that’s very characteristic of B’z.
powder snowRemioromen
Released in 2005, this is one of Remioromen’s signature songs.
It’s also known as a TV drama theme.
A popular winter ballad, it weaves in a variety of sounds and never grows tiresome.
It’s a karaoke favorite too, and the soaring high notes at the start of the chorus and the wistful mood of the song really showcase the band’s greatness.
fragileEvery Little Thing
Released in 2001, this song was used as the theme for a popular romance reality show.
It’s a poignant ballad that captures the feeling of being in love while sensing a breakup is inevitable.
It expresses unforgettable emotions while encouraging you to move forward.
sign; mark; symbol; omenMr.Children
Released in 2006, the song became a hot topic after being featured as a TV drama’s theme.
It’s a quintessential Mr.
Children-style rock ballad with a grand scale.
Although the tempo is relaxed, the unexpected rhymes in the lyrics and the bittersweet tone leave a striking impression and really hit you in the heart.
Moon DropsRUI
Released in 2003, this song is one of actress Kou Shibasaki’s signature tracks.
It was created to match the film’s world, which comes through in the intro and the lyrics.
It’s a song that evokes vivid scenes and emotions—one you’d want to listen to when you’re remembering something or when you’re alone.