Hidden gems of Western ballad songs. Recommended popular tracks.

Fast CarTracy Chapman

Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (Official Music Video)

“Fast Car,” included on American singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman’s debut album Tracy Chapman.

Released in 1988, the song’s poignant acoustic guitar melody and her deep, soulful vocals capture the listener and won’t let go.

It tells the story of a protagonist who dreams of escaping a life of poverty.

They pin their hopes for freedom on a “fast car,” but their partner falls into decline, and the dream slips further away.

The raw lyrics, where hope and despair intersect, are truly moving.

In fact, the song became a worldwide hit after her performance at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert in June 1988.

When you’re yearning to change your circumstances, listening to it may quietly give you courage through the protagonist’s journey.

Don’t Give UpPeter Gabriel

Peter Gabriel – Don’t Give Up (ft. Kate Bush)

Included on the 1986 album “So.” It’s a duet number produced with Peter Gabriel inviting the UK-born singer Kate Bush.

The song unfolds with Peter pouring out his pain while Kate encourages him, and the music video is memorable for the two singing while embracing each other.

SaraStarship

Starship – Sara (Official Music Video) [HD]

Included on the 1985 album “Knee Deep in the Hoopla.” A six-piece band formed in 1985 by members of Jefferson Airplane.

The mournful sound of the harmonica is striking.

Mickey’s vocals lyrically sing about his breakup with her, and it’s a bit tear-jerking.

Please Don’t Make Me CryUB40

UB40 – Please Don’t Make Me Cry

Included on the 1983 album “Labour of Love.” A six-piece reggae band from the UK formed in 1978.

The band’s name was taken from the name of the UK unemployment benefit application form.

With a laid-back rhythm and a melancholic melody in the background, the vocalist’s heartfelt singing about the sorrow of heartbreak is deeply moving.

Take My Breath AwayBerlin

Berlin – Take My Breath Away (Official Video – Top Gun)

Included on the 1986 album “Count Three & Pray.” It was used in the film “Top Gun,” released the same year.

A trio formed in 1978 from California.

The vocalist’s quiet yet passionate delivery, carried by a moody melody that feels like being wrapped in the stillness of night, sinks deep into the heart.

A fine song.

CarrieEurope

Europe – Carrie (Official Video)

Included on the 1986 album The Final Countdown.

A five-piece band from Sweden formed in 1979, they are pioneers of Nordic metal.

While The Final Countdown is extremely famous, they also have fine quiet ballads like this one.

The vocals, which convey the sorrow of heartbreak so well, are deeply moving.

Every Breath You TakeThe Police

The Police – Every Breath You Take (Official Music Video)

The Police are a British band that rose to prominence in the late 1970s with their innovative musical style that blended rock with reggae elements.

This work is their signature song, released in May 1983.

In Japan, it’s frequently heard in commercials, so many people may recognize the melody.

At first glance, it seems like a romantic love song, but the lyrics depict a slightly unsettling side—intense obsession with and surveillance of a lover.

This imbalance between the sweet melody and stalker-like lyrics becomes a compelling charm that captivates listeners.

Featured on the classic album Synchronicity, the song spent eight consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

It is a masterpiece ballad that is not merely beautiful, but one that delves into the depths of human psychology.