Ballad songs from Western music that were hits in the 2000s
The 2000s were a turbulent era in the long history of music, with various genres—like EDM and punk rock, which are now taken for granted—coloring each moment in time.
While the 2000s saw the birth of many genres, it was also a period that could be called the golden age of R&B.
This time, we’ve picked out Western ballads that were hits in the 2000s.
Given the era, there’s a lineup of R&B masterpieces, so this is a must-see for fans of Black music!
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Ballad songs from Western music that were hits in the 2000s (11–20)
Superman (It’s Not Easy)Five for Fighting
Five for Fighting’s classic “Superman (It’s Not Easy)” is a song that colored the ballad scene of the 2000s.
After the September 11, 2001 attacks, it gave great courage to many people.
In its lyrics, the weakness and loneliness of the superhero Superman are portrayed, delivering a message that deeply resonates with listeners.
As a metaphor relevant to the real world, it also sheds light on the hidden fragility of celebrities and strong leaders.
The song’s emotional weight likely serves as the driving force that attracts people across genres.
Be sure to give it a listen on a quiet night when you want to enrich your heart.
Through the RainMariah Carey
It’s the lead track from the 2002 album “Charmbracelet.” After the previous setback and her physical and mental struggles, it marked a comeback released under a new label.
Comparing life’s trials to a driving rain, the song declares, “With faith and prayer to lean on, I can make it one more day,” powerfully portraying the will to rise in the face of adversity.
The vocal, expanding from restrained low tones to sustained long notes at the end, feels like climbing a staircase toward hope.
In Japan, it was used in 2002 as the ending theme for the drama “You’re Under Arrest.” It’s a song that gently stands by anyone trying to make a fresh start after painful experiences.
A Thousand MilesVanessa Carlton
This piano ballad, crafted by American singer-songwriter Vanessa Carlton, poignantly captures the ache of unrequited love.
Having studied classical music from a young age and trained at the Juilliard School, Carlton showcases her exceptional piano skills through a sweeping melodic line that beautifully harmonizes with lyrics expressing heartfelt honesty toward a cherished person.
Released as a single from her 2002 debut album, Be Not Nobody, it reached No.
5 on the U.S.
charts and received two nominations at the 45th Grammy Awards.
Also known for its memorable appearance in the film White Chicks, this song gently embraces the universal feeling of longing for a distant lover—an evocative piece that resonates when you’re hoping to reunite with someone special.
More Than ThatBackstreet Boys
This is a classic Backstreet Boys ballad whose gentle acoustic guitar arpeggios and gorgeous strings will make you swoon.
Its heartfelt portrayal of the feeling, “I don’t want to be just friends,” has captured the hearts of many fans.
The protagonist’s effort to convey a love deeper than words overlaps with the exquisite harmonies of the five members, resonating deeply in the listener’s heart.
Released as a single from the acclaimed album Black & Blue, it became a hit when it came out in April 2001, reaching No.
27 on the U.S.
charts.
Thanks to its romantic atmosphere, many people choose it as a song to play at their weddings.
It’s the perfect track for a night when you want to reaffirm your feelings for someone special.
FoolishAshanti
This R&B classic captures the frustration and unbreakable attachment of being unable to leave an unfaithful lover.
It’s performed by Ashanti, a powerhouse American singer and Grammy winner.
Even when you know you’re being cheated on, even as you blame yourself for being foolish, you still can’t stop loving them…
Have you ever found yourself stuck in that kind of messy relationship? If trying to forget only makes you think about them more, then, like this song suggests, letting yourself sink fully into the melancholy might actually help you confront your own feelings.
Released in February 2002, this track achieved the remarkable feat of spending 10 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 as a single from the acclaimed album “Ashanti.”