Hidden gems of Western ballad songs. Recommended popular tracks.

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.

A Groovy Kind Of LovePhil Collins

Phil Collins – A Groovy Kind Of Love (Official Music Video)

A single released in 1988.

It’s included on the soundtrack for the film “Buster,” which came out the same year.

Born in 1951, he’s a London-born musician and the drummer of Genesis.

His daughter is the actress Lily Collins.

Hearing him sing over the melancholy melody line makes my chest tighten.

OneU2

U2 – One (Official Music Video)

U2 is a rock band from Ireland that has never undergone a lineup change since their debut and holds the astonishing record of 22 Grammy Awards.

This work is a single cut from their 1991 masterpiece Achtung Baby, a soul-stirring ballad that became the catalyst for the band to overcome a crisis of breaking up.

Rather than simply singing “let’s become one,” its lyrics portray both the difficulty and the preciousness of acknowledging each other’s differences, resonating deeply with listeners.

The universality of its message is evident from the huge success of the 2006 collaboration version with Mary J.

Blige.

It’s a song that quietly stays by your side when you’re struggling with relationships or reflecting on the bonds you share with someone important.

It was also featured in the film The Family Man.

Sweet SixteenBilly Idol

Billy Idol – Sweet Sixteen

Included on the 1986 album Whiplash Smile.

Born in 1955.

A musician from the United Kingdom and the vocalist of Generation X.

His nihilistic vocals, which seem to match the mournful, low, dry drums and weeping guitar sound, feel hollow and almost empty out your heart.

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.