Hidden gems of Western ballad songs. Recommended popular tracks.

In Your EyesPeter Gabriel

Peter Gabriel – In Your Eyes

From an intro infused with world music elements, this masterpiece immediately draws you into a grand realm of love.

Created by the innovative British musician Peter Gabriel, the track appears on his acclaimed 1986 album So.

It’s a universal love song that sings of a soul-deep bond—finding salvation, a future, and a place to return within a loved one’s eyes.

With the prayerful vocals of Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour, the entire piece radiates a sacred aura.

Featured in the iconic 1989 film Say Anything… during the scene where the protagonist holds up a boombox, it became known as a timeless anthem of love.

On a night when you want to feel the presence of someone special anew, why not surrender to this song’s warm yet passionate sound?

nothing gonna change my love for youGlenn Mederios

Glenn Mederios – nothing gonna change my love for you

Included on the 1987 album “Glenn Medeiros.” A singer born in 1970 from the state of Hawaii.

A cover of the single released by George Benson in 1985.

Many musicians have covered this song in Japan, but in his version—perhaps because he was only 17 at the time—his youthful vibe really comes to the forefront.

Say you, Say meLionel Richie

Say You, Say Me

Included on the 1986 album “Dancing on the Ceiling.” It’s a song written specifically for the 1985 film “White Nights.” Born in 1949, he’s a singer-songwriter from Alabama and a member of The Commodores.

The key change in the middle is surprising, but he handles this basically slow ballad with effortless skill—impressive as always.

Shape Of My HeartSting

Sting – Shape of My Heart (Official Music Video)

Sting, the singer-songwriter who represents the United Kingdom.

Among his works, this may be the most beloved medium-tempo ballad in Japan.

This piece portrays the feelings of a poker player who seeks the mystery of fate rather than victory.

In the lyrics, various meanings are assigned to the suits of the cards, and in the line where he sings that hearts do not represent his own heart, you can sense the protagonist’s profound loneliness and philosophy.

This intellectual worldview is beautifully expressed by Dominic Miller’s wistful guitar riff.

Included on the 1993 album “Ten Summoner’s Tales,” the song is also widely known as the ending theme of the film “Léon: The Professional.” Be sure to check it out alongside the film’s moving finale.

Save A PrayerDuran Duran

Duran Duran – Save A Prayer (Official Music Video)

Included on the 1982 album Rio.

A four-piece band from the UK formed in 1978.

The synthesizer’s tones feel somewhat otherworldly, and as you listen to the melody that matches them, you get the sense of wandering into a mysterious world—such a song.