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 (71–80)
March 9Remioromen
Originally written for a friend’s wedding, this song has since become popular as a graduation song as well.
The lyrics are wonderful, and the more you listen, the more it draws you in.
We all have people who stir different emotions in us—close friends, beloved partners, unforgettable individuals—and this song conveys a feeling of gratitude for their presence in our lives.
Pure Love SongShonan no Kaze
When it comes to songs you belt out at karaoke, you definitely can’t leave this one out! Even though it was released in 2006, it still ranks high as a popular karaoke pick.
Its appeal lies in the masculine lyrics—blunt yet straightforward and sincere.
Not only is the solo part at the beginning perfect for singing your heart out, but the rap section in the middle is great too! It’s the kind of song that would be a blast to split into parts and sing together with friends.
cold; curt; blunt; unfriendlyRADWIMPS
Speaking of RADWIMPS, they’ve created many refreshingly fast-paced, rock band-style songs, but their love ballads—featuring the poignant lyrics written by vocalist Yojiro Noda—are truly wonderful as well! Among them, this is a song that many listeners will likely relate to, the kind that tightens your chest as you listen.
True to Noda’s style, it frequently features high tones, so it’s recommended for those confident in their upper range.
The melody outside the chorus is particularly distinctive, so it’s a good idea to listen carefully beforehand and get a solid grasp of the melodic line.
Far, far awayMakihara Noriyuki
It’s a ballad by Noriyuki Makihara included on his 1992 album “Kimi wa Boku no Takaramono” (You Are My Treasure).
Although it was an album track, it became widely known after being used in a 2006 NTT East Japan commercial.
Makihara reportedly wrote the song with a friend in mind.
A world without youto shiki
When it comes to ballads, many people think of breakup songs.
But because it’s such a classic theme, I think a lot of listeners struggle to find songs that feel truly fresh.
That’s why I want to introduce “A World Without You,” which has been gaining buzz on social media.
The track is by singer-songwriter Toshi.
It grapples with how to face a world where the person you love is gone.
Pay special attention to the uniquely raw, cathartic vocal delivery—it’s unlike anything else.
TSUNAMISazan Ōrusutāzu
One of their biggest hit ballads is TSUNAMI, which sold over three million copies.
It’s a timeless classic that needs no introduction and is one of Southern All Stars’ signature songs.
The lyrics, which compare a summer romance and its fading to the waves of the sea, are beloved by many.
It’s also said to be relatively easy to sing among the band’s songs, making it perfect for anyone who wants to belt out a ballad at karaoke.
Together forever…GLAY
When you think of ballads, many of them have bittersweet themes, don’t they? Still, there are times when you want to listen to a song that warms your heart.
That’s why I’d like to introduce “Zutto Futari de.” It was GLAY’s first ballad released as a single.
There’s also a moving backstory: the song was written by the vocalist TERU for his older sister’s wedding.
As a result, it’s a piece that celebrates the beauty of love.
Why not give it a listen on a special day, like an anniversary or a wedding?