Recommended ballads for men: classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth.
When you’ve had your heart broken, reached a turning point in life, or are struggling with something…
In times like these, many people want to listen to a touching ballad that stays close to the heart, or belt one out at karaoke, don’t they?
But even when we say “ballad,” there are all kinds: songs with lyrics about love, ones that feel like an anthem cheering on your life, and others that evoke youthful days.
The musical styles vary too—pieces featuring the beautiful tones of piano and strings, rock ballads with a full band sound, and acoustic numbers with just a guitar and voice.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of ballads—picked from among the many out there—that we especially recommend for men!
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Recommended ballads for men: classic songs about love, encouragement, and youth (61–70)
FlowerORANGE RANGE
Among ORANGE RANGE’s songs, this is an especially moving ballad.
It was released in 2004 as their eighth single.
The lyrics express a desire to stay with a loved one no matter what.
It was chosen as the theme song for the film “Be With You.”
On the hill where the moon is visible tonightB’z
This song was written as the theme for the drama “Beautiful Life: The Days We Were Together.” The lyrics vividly convey the suffering one experiences while being with a loved one and the determination to keep walking together.
Layered with B’z’s signature powerful sound, it evokes a sense of the couple’s strong love and connection.
It’s a track that communicates both the desire to slowly get to know someone precious and the strong wish to make that person happy.
sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)SEKAI NO OWARI
It’s an encouraging song for people moving toward their dreams.
It’s a track by the four-member band SEKAI NO OWARI, released in 2018 as their 12th single.
It was the NHK theme song for the PyeongChang Olympics and Paralympics.
The way the arrangement gradually becomes more grand is dramatic.
Give it a listen when you’re feeling down.
Bridge of Gloryyuzu
Speaking of the most iconic song by the hugely popular folk duo Yuzu, it has to be Eikou no Kakehashi.
Released in 2004, it was used as the official theme song for the Athens Olympics.
Sports fans, swept up in the Olympic excitement, were all humming along.
The track showcases Yuzu’s hallmark high-tone vocals, and its heartfelt, passionate lyrics really draw you in when you sing it.
It’s one of those songs that makes you want to belt it out, mic in hand, sweat beading on your forehead!
Is there still anything that love can do?RADWIMPS
This song became the theme for the smash-hit animated film Weathering With You, so it’s a very well-known track across generations.
It’s a gentle ballad with beautiful piano melodies, yet it carries an incredibly strong core.
I think it resonates deeply with listeners of any age or background.
It’s the kind of song you’d want to keep as a charm for tough times—one that makes you feel you can live strongly with the teachings of that special someone in your heart.
Sakura (2019)Moriyama Naotaro
Originally arranged for a band, this song was released as a solo piano version and continues to be loved even now in the Reiwa era.
In every era’s arrangement, you can feel Naotaro Moriyama’s distinctive touch, preserving a resonance of “Sakura” that fits the times.
The lyrics are a message wishing happiness for a friend setting off on a new journey, which has made it a staple at graduation ceremonies and spring events.
Many of you have probably sung it yourselves, haven’t you?
Lion HeartSMAP
Ballads sung by idols can be really nice, too.
SMAP’s “Lion Heart,” from the group that needs no introduction, is also a classic ballad.
It was used as the theme song for the drama Food Fight, starring SMAP member Tsuyoshi Kusanagi.
The lyrics are heartwarming, like speaking to one’s child—or to one’s girlfriend.
The lyricist is screenwriter Shinji Nojima, and the words carry a storyteller’s touch.
It’s a wonderful song to listen to, and also great for karaoke.
It even drew attention for the rumor that Kusanagi was the only member without a solo part.